Building Inspector

The City of Oak Forest Building Department is seeking applicants for the position of full-time Building Inspector
. Under the general direction of the Building Commissioner, the building inspector is responsible for the administrative and investigative work in the inspection of all City commercial, industrial, and residential buildings to ensure compliance with codes governing building trades, and ensures that all buildings and structures are built in compliance with established codes and ordinances.

This is a technical support position responsible for performing specialized tasks in enforcing regulatory ordinances and codes in such areas as property maintenance, zoning, building codes, and other related areas. This position reports to the Building Commissioner.

Examples of work include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Assists the Building Commissioner in the supervision of permits, inspections, and enforcement functions.
• Acts as trainer and mentor for inspectors and assists the Building Commissioner in everyday planning and operations of the Building Department.
• Provides technical support and guidance to inspectors.
• Reviews and interprets Architectural/Engineering plans to ensure compliance with building and zoning codes. Ensures all pertinent building codes and City ordinances are followed. This includes survey requirements for permit, location, and conformance with zoning and land use requirements. Reviews plans to determine conformance with codes prior to issuance of building permits.
• Conducts field inspections of new residential, commercial, and industrial buildings and structures, troubleshoots complex inspections; ensures compliance with City codes.
• Inspects buildings in various stages of construction, alteration, and repair for compliance with one or several of the construction codes that may govern for conformity to existing code requirements. Takes necessary steps to correct violations.
• Responds to inquiries from residents and other stakeholders regarding building codes, violations, and general inquiries. Provides technical information on codes/standards pertaining to permits, inspections, licensing, and occupancies.
• Communicates with contractors in making corrections to ensure conformity with regulations and plans. Makes final inspections of construction projects to check overall code compliance. Interprets legal requirements and recommends compliance procedures to contractors, craft workers, and owners.
• Researches, analyzes, and prepares a variety of studies, reports, correspondence, and recommendations for decision-making purposes; prepares and oversees preparations of monthly reports.
• Assists the Building Commissioner in the upkeep and maintenance of the permitting software
• Uses best practices to ensure critical records are maintained and organized in a timely manner.
• Assists the Building Commissioner with maintaining and updating applicable City codes.
• Acts as department liaison between other departments or agencies as directed by the Building Commissioner. Attends and participates in professional group meetings and maintains awareness of trends and developments in the field of municipal building.
• Appears in court, providing relevant testimony as required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

• Customer Service
  - Manages difficult or emotional customer situations; responds promptly to customer needs;
  Solicits customer feedback to improve service; responds to requests for service and assistance;
  Meets commitments.
• Interpersonal Skills
  - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; maintains confidentiality; listens to others without interrupting;
  Keeps emotions under control;
  Remains open to others' ideas and tries new things.
• Teamwork
  - Balances team and individual responsibilities; exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; gives and welcomes feedback; contributes to building a positive team spirit; puts success of team above own interests; able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; supports everyone's efforts to succeed.
• Professionalism
  - Tactfully approaches others; reacts well under pressure; treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; accepts responsibility for own actions; follows through on commitments.
• Adaptability
  - Adapts to changes in the work environment; manages competing demands;…