Senior Plans Examiner-Building Inspection

Job Summary

Analyzes commercial and multi-family building plans and specifications for compliance with City Building Codes Work is performed with considerable independence with a supervisor providing technical assistance on complex problems, and work is reviewed while in progress and upon completion for achievement of desired results and application of established codes and regulations.

Job Description
 

Overview

The Senior Plans Examiner-Building Inspection reviews, examines, and analyzes residential, commercial and multi-family building plans and specifications for compliance with City Building Codes.

Essential Functions

1 Performs and completes building, fire, and energy reviews on large and small commercial and residential projects; evaluates and approves building and construction permits; repairs, drafts., and maintains technical reports regarding review activities.

2 Meets with contractors, builders and property owners in regard to the approval or disapproval of plans; explains and interprets the building code and regulations relative to the construction plans submitted; explains the methods of modifying plans submitted to comply with the building codes and regulations; and, gives advice to building inspectors; attends and participates in various pre-development meetings and delivers strong and competent technical advice on residential and commercial building codes, life safety, accessibility, and energy codes.

3 Examines blueprints, complex construction drawings and specifications of proposed buildings prior to the issuance of a building permit; discusses technical requirements of plans with engineers, contractors, builders or owners; suggests modifications and calls for corrections to plans as necessary; assists building personnel in resolving commercial and residential complaints from the public, architects, engineers, contractors, and attorneys; resolves complex building related compliance disagreements through communications and field inspections.

4 Computes square footage of buildings, estimates costs, and calculates building permits; reviews applications and makes adjustments as needed; ensures accurate construction types, occupancy classifications, sprinkler status, fire alarm status, and permit information for building development; ensures architectural and structural plans are coherent and that all lengths, measurements, and calculations are accurate.

5 Works closely and professionally with citizens and businesses in Dallas to interpret complex building codes in a clear and concise manner to promote livability, viability, and equitability within the City.

6 Collaborates and engages with Code Compliance officers, Building Inspection Administration, Current Planning Staff and Building Inspectors to address issues in the field.

7 Leads, trains, and provides direction for other plans examiners working in the field or in the office; provides insight, technical knowledge, and code expertise to ensure all building plans are effectively checked, examined, and approved; provides extensive and professional customer service and engages with the public in multiple ways.

8 Performs any and all other work as needed or assigned.

Knowledge and Skills

1 Thorough knowledge of building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical and/or zoning codes with considerable knowledge of other City codes, ordinances and safety regulations affecting building construction.

2 Knowledge of City construction codes

3 Knowledge of state laws applicable to inspection

4 Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with the general public while discussing, explaining and interpreting standards and codes.

5 Ability to read and accurately interpret construction plans, specifications and reference materials.

6 Ability to analyze facts, recognize problems, and to formulate and implement viable solutions

7 Ability to lead and direct subordinate staff and monitor work for quality control and standards.

8 Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.

9 Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree (or higher) in an Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management field.

EXPERIENCE

One (1) year of experience in municipal building plans review/inspection OR light-frame construction with responsibility for interpreting and ensuring compliance with the International Building Code (IBC)

EQUIVALENCIES

High school or GED plus five (5) years of the required experience will meet the education and experience requirements.

Associate degree in an Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management field plus three (3) years of the required experience will meet the education and experience requirements.

Associate degree in an Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management field plus ICC Building or Residential certification plus two (2) years of the required experience will meet the education and experience requirements.

High school or GED plus ICC Building or Residential certificate plus four (4) years of the required experience will meet the education and experience requirements.

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LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Valid driver's license with good driving record.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to obtain ICC Certification in an appropriate discipline within one (1) year of employment.

PREFERENCES:

Familiarity with green codes/standards (such as IgCC, LEED, Green Built Texas, or ICC 700) and/or the energy code (IECC) is a plus but not required.