Building Inspector

Notice to Applicants

Please note the experience needed. If you do not have the required certifications for the Building Inspector II position, please indicate on your cover letter that you are interested in the Building Inspector I position.

The purpose of this position is to inspect construction sites and structures to ensure compliance with all codes required by law and regulation and established Town construction practices and procedures for the Town of Bluffton.

• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with building officials, other town management and personnel, area businesses, homeowners, contractors, architects, engineers, developers, other related professionals, and the general public.
• Respond to internal and external customer questions and comments in a courteous and timely manner.
• Conduct inspections of construction sites and structures for compliance with all building, plumbing, electrical, gas, energy, and mechanical codes as adopted by the Town, including other Town ordinances regarding setbacks and buffers; note specific violations; ensure construction is in accordance with approved plans, complete job site reports, address any specific violations, and document inspection history in computerized tracking program.
• Interpret codes and regulations; explain permit and compliance conditions.
• Keep daily logs including photographs for recordkeeping and verification purposes.
• Use survey instruments, meeting devices, and test equipment in performing inspections.
• Verify alignment, level, and elevation of structures to ensure building meets specifications.
• Document and maintain complete and accurate records of all inspections and any regulatory actions taken; prepare written reports and correspondence; issue notices to correct code violations.
• Confere with and provide information regarding code requirements to developers, engineers, architects, property owners, the public, and other interested parties.
• Address any complaints or problems from concerned parties; take appropriate measures to ensure an expedient resolution in a timely and courteous manner.
• Investigate complaints regarding unauthorized or non‑compliant construction; issue stop work orders as necessary.
• Review, approve, or deny single family building plans and drawings for new construction, remodeling, or renovations to ensure compliance with applicable ordinances; contact contractors regarding needed information; document plan violations; determine flood zones and compliance with FEMA requirements; determine required inspections based on construction plans and drawings.
• Educate and train superintendents and subcontractors on code, compliance, and efficiency.
• Conduct research on code related issues and manufacturers’ specifications.
• Participate in post‑disaster recovery plan, including conducting on‑site inspection of properties following declared disasters; assess structures for damage; determine safety and habitability of all structures.
• Communicate and coordinate regularly with appropriate parties to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of operations and activities.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

High school diploma or equivalent; and five (5) years of work experience in the building construction field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Valid South Carolina driver’s license.
• At least four certifications (either commercial or residential) required in:
  Building, Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing.

None.

• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local codes related to required work.
• Knowledge of construction industry practices, methods, operations, and materials.
• Knowledge of investigation techniques and methods of inspection related to the construction trades.
• Knowledge of Department policies and procedures.
• Skill in communicating, both verbally and in writing.
• Skill in being tactful, discrete, and persuasive.
• Skill in delivering customer service.
• Skill in using computers and related Department software.
• Ability to enforce regulations in a fair and impartial manner.
• Ability…