Building Inspector

The City of Lead offers an opportunity to serve a historic and growing community in the northern Black Hills. This position provides meaningful, hands‑on involvement in development, public safety, historic preservation, and community planning. The City values practical experience, professionalism, and a collaborative approach to public service.

The City of Lead Building Inspector is responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable building codes, zoning regulations, safety standards, and City ordinances. This position performs inspections of residential, commercial, industrial, and public infrastructure projects during all phases of construction and occupancy. The Building Inspector also provides plan review, code enforcement, public guidance, and administrative support related to development, land use, and community safety.

The position requires a high degree of technical knowledge, sound judgment, and the ability to work collaboratively with City staff, elected officials, contractors, property owners, and the general public.

• Inspect residential, commercial, industrial, and public buildings during and after construction to ensure compliance with adopted building codes, City ordinances, zoning regulations, safety standards, and approved plans.
• Identify, document, and report code violations, unsafe conditions, or noncompliant construction practices.
• Issue notices, correction orders, and stop‑work orders as authorized, and track compliance through follow‑up inspections.
• Examine buildings and structures for damage following fires, floods, severe weather, or other emergencies and determine necessary remediation or restrictions on occupancy.
• Enforce City of Lead ordinances in coordination with the Police Department and other City departments.

• Review building plans, site plans, and related construction documents to verify compliance with applicable codes, zoning regulations, and City requirements.
• Research legal descriptions for plats, variances, deeds, conditional use permits, and other land‑use actions.
• Prepare documents and materials for official consideration, approval, and filing.
• Ensure compliance with public notice requirements for permits, variances, and land‑use processes.

• Provide technical support to the Planning and Zoning Commission, including agenda preparation, meeting attendance, and staff reporting.
• Work with Lead Historic Preservation and attend monthly meetings to support preservation goals and objectives.
• Apply and implement the City of Lead Comprehensive Plan in development review.

• Communicate clearly and professionally with architects, engineers, contractors, developers, property owners, and the public regarding regulations, requirements, and corrective actions.
• Prepare clear, accurate written inspection reports, notices, and correspondence.
• Attend public meetings and hearings to address questions or concerns related to construction, zoning, and code enforcement.

• Respond to emergency situations, including but not limited to fires, flooding, severe weather events, and other disasters.
• Perform inspections in unique or hazardous environments, including underground facilities (South Dakota Science and Technology Authority property).
• Participate in emergency management activities as required.

• Maintain accurate inspection records, permits, and reports using City systems and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• In-depth knowledge of building codes, zoning laws, land‑use regulations, and inspection practices.
• Strong understanding of health and safety regulations.
• Ability to interpret plans, specifications, and legal descriptions.
• Knowledge of City Ordinances and regulatory enforcement procedures.
• Ability to prepare detailed, accurate reports and maintain thorough records.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and exercise sound judgment.
• Ability…