Description

JOB SUMMARY                                                                                                                                                                            

 Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees. They are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

 RKA Consulting Group is seeking a Senior Building Inspector to lead and perform advanced inspections on complex residential, commercial, and industrial projects at various stages of construction, alteration, and repair. Working under general supervision, the Senior Inspector ensures compliance with local, state, and federal codes, approved plans, and safety standards, while also reviewing detailed plans and preparing permit documentation for higher-level projects. This role provides guidance to contractors, developers, design professionals, and the public, offering clear information on building requirements and inspection procedures. The position requires proven technical expertise, strong communication skills, and the ability to oversee inspection activities with professionalism and sound judgment, supporting safe and compliant development across a wide range of projects. 

 ESSENTIAL DUTIES                                                                                                                                                                  

 The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs, and changing business practices.

 Depending on the area of assignment, duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Lead, plan, and review the work of inspection staff while providing training and mentoring support.
• Handle the most complex inspections and plan reviews, applying sound judgment and technical expertise to resolve difficult issues.
• Inspect residential, commercial, and industrial buildings throughout various phases of construction, alteration, and remodeling; conduct final inspections and approve compliant projects.
• Review preliminary plans and specifications for new construction, additions, and alterations to confirm compliance with codes and ordinances.
• Inspect existing structures when there is a change of use or occupancy to verify code compliance.
• Investigate complaints of unsafe, unpermitted, or substandard construction; issue correction notices or stop-work orders as needed.
• Issue and approve permits across multiple disciplines, including structural, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, grading, and drainage.
• Coordinate closely with other departments to ensure plan reviews, site inspections, and approvals align with city standards and regulations.
• Oversee bond processing and releases upon project completion; prepare related correspondence with applicants and financial institutions.
• Calculate valuations and fees; provide accurate information to architects, engineers, and applicants.
• Respond to inquiries from contractors, developers, architects, and the public; explain code requirements and building standards clearly and professionally.
• Lead pre-construction meetings to review inspection protocols, requirements, and expectations with contractors, developers, and city staff.
• Maintain accurate files, inspection reports, and records of plan check activities; prepare monthly inspection and plan review summaries.
• Inspect a wide range of construction systems and components including foundations, steel, masonry, framing, plastering, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical installations.
• Document violations and issue notices of compliance; maintain records for potential legal action.
• May be required to work at various contracted cities.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE                                                                                                                          

 Minimum Qualifications

Any combination equivalent to experience and training that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain knowledge, skills and abilities would be:

• Education/Training: Equivalent to a high school diploma supplemented specialized training in building codes.
• Experience: Five years of building inspection experience performing residential, multi-family, industrial and commercial inspections for a public agency, including at least two years of experience in multi-family and/or commercial inspections.
• Certification: Possession of a valid International Code Compliance (ICC) Combination Building Inspector Certificate.  Possession of ICC Plans Examiner Certificate is desirable.
• Licenses: Valid California Class C driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES                                                                                                                      

 Knowledge of:

• Building inspection procedures utilized by public agencies.
• Familiarity with established safety standards and accepted construction methods for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
• Working knowledge of building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, energy, accessibility, housing, and related codes.
• Understanding of inspection practices and plan review techniques.
• Knowledge of common construction types, building materials, and standard methods used in the industry.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare clear, detailed reports.
• Proficiency with modern office practices, computer systems, and related technology.
• Awareness of occupational hazards and safety practices specific to building inspection.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively interact with the public, contractors, and design professionals.
• Knowledge of safe driving practices and ability to operate a vehicle responsibly in the course of work.

Skills:

• Utilize software programs and other technology specific to building inspection work.
• Operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and software.

Abilities:

• Perform the full range of building inspections with minimal supervision.
• Apply technical expertise and sound inspection practices to evaluate construction methods, materials, and detect deviations from approved plans or codes.
• Read, interpret, and apply complex technical documents, including manuals, blueprints, drawings, specifications, layouts, and schematics.
• Provide guidance on standard construction practices and code requirements for residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
• Interpret and enforce policies, procedures, laws, and regulations related to building inspection programs with fairness and consistency.
• Respond effectively to requests and inquiries regarding building regulations, procedures, and requirements.
• Enforce compliance with firmness, professionalism, and tact.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare detailed, clear, and concise reports.
• Work independently and manage tasks effectively with minimal supervision.
• Communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
• Build and maintain positive, cooperative working relationships with colleagues, contractors, developers, and the public.