Wage Range:  $39.35 – $48.69 (8 Step Range)
Benefits: Generous Medical Benefits and Paid Time Off Represented by Teamsters 58
Status: Open Until Filed
First Review: March 5, 2022

Job Description:

The Building Official reports directly to the Public Works Director and is an integral part of the building and land-use activities of the Community Development Department. This employee works closely with the Permit Technician, City Engineer, Planner, and Public Works Director to process building permit applications, review and approve building plans, and inspect building construction commensurate with state and local codes. Work closely with law enforcement and legal representatives specific to code enforcement. 

The Building Official is a highly skilled and technical professional that requires the employee to have extensive knowledge of building codes, code adoption, building and construction industry standards, methods, and materials.

Essential Functions/Primary Responsibilities:

  • Examine buildings and plans to determine compliance with the structural and non-structural provisions of the applicable codes, regulations, and approved building plans.
  • Ensure the application of construction practices is compliant with regulations and codes adopted to ensure the community’s safety, health, and welfare.
  • Perform inspections of residential and commercial buildings in various development and construction phases, revisions to existing structures, or repair of building structures to ensure compliance with applicable code requirements.
  • Perform technical plan reviews for residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
  • Manage and perform Municipal Code enforcement per standardized processes. Respond promptly and take the initiative in managing complex and sensitive issues while maintaining accurate and factual data.
  • Provide leadership and direction in developing short and long-range plans relating to building inspections and plan examination; gather, interpret and prepare data for studies, reports, and recommendations.
  • Interpret building codes to render advice, judgments, and decisions to internal and external partners, including elected officials, developers, builders, and the community.
  • Prepare and submit new and revised policies and procedures that will serve as the foundation of building development and regulatory compliance with city codes.
  • Write detailed correction notices for code violations discovered during construction; write technical and notification notices. Document the steps taken to address the code violation, instruct the violator in what must be done to achieve compliance, and represent the City during legal proceedings if warranted. 
  • Execute assignments, projects, and job responsibilities efficiently and within defined timeframes; work independently and effectively with little direction.
  • Communicate, verbally and in writing, state and local building codes, policies, and procedures to Community Development staff, the land development community, and other government entities.
  • Resolves complex and sensitive customer service issues with tact and professionalism; maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers.
  • Use good judgment and employ critical thinking to execute duties, identify issues and possible solutions, and recommend improvements to accomplish department goals.
  • Work requires this professional to work collaboratively with the City Engineer, Permit Technician, consultant Planner, City Attorney, and other city representatives.  
  • Maintain accurate, regulatory-compliant records and documents. Operate within the established budget designated for inspectors.
  • Must adhere to the City’s Guiding Principles when communicating or interacting with colleagues, business/building community members, and the community.
  • The tasks outlined above are not all-inclusive, rather serve as a representation of many of the job responsibilities. Perform other duties as assigned by the Public Works Director.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Completion of college/WABO course work specific to construction, building, structural codes, and building construction principles. Must be able to acquire a Building Inspector certification within one year of hire.
  • Three (3) to five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in administrating and ensuring compliance with the International Building Code or any equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Certification from International or Washington State Code Council (I.C.C.) as a building/code inspector, building official, or plans examiner.
  • Must be competent in using Microsoft Office Suites, G.I.S., Adobe software, and basic computer use.
  • Must be able to work outside of the regular work schedule to attend various business-related meetings.
  • Must possess a valid Washington State driver’s license, be insurable, and have no more than one driving infraction in the last three years.
  • Following a conditional offer of employment, and before starting work, individuals will be required to have a pre-employment physical examination by a physician designated by the City of La Center. Satisfactory clearance to perform the essential functions of this position will be required for employment.
  • Must complete a pre-employment background investigation to include criminal records and credit checks.

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions

Physical demands of the position include navigating uneven ground, including construction sites, climbing ladders to access roofs, crawling on the ground to access below ground or confined spaces, and lifting to 50 pounds. Must drive a city vehicle and travel outside city limits to regional or statewide meetings.

A large percentage of the responsibilities of this position are accomplished outdoors during a variety of weather conditions. Office work includes working on a computer for long periods, reviewing documents, and attending meetings.

How to Apply:

Send Resume to humanresources@ci.lacenter.wa.us