Summary
The Local Building Inspector enforces the Massachusetts State Building Code and the Melrose Zoning Ordinance. The Local Inspector ensures public safety by reviewing applications, construction plans, specifications, issuing permits and by performing inspections of buildings under construction or repair for conformity with approved plans, zoning ordinances and Mass. State Building Code 780 CMR. Investigates zoning complaints. Prepares written violations, completes written reports, and submits reports to the Building Commissioner.
Essential Functions
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
- Inspects projects for building code compliance to protect the public
- Provides public safety through effective code enforcement.
- Sets schedules and performs on-site building inspections.
- Reviews building permit applications and plans. Assigns fees for permits.
- Oversees/supervises tasks for permitting.
- Directs and instructs builders and home owners on methods to repair out-of-compliance issues.
- Responds to questions or requests from contractors and property owners.
- Investigates and inspects zoning and building code complaints. Prepares written violations, completeswritten reports. and provides reports to Building Commissioner.
- Enters inspection results into computer.
- Conducts annual inspections and issues State mandated Certificates of Inspections Placards.
- Certifies completion of work and that work is in compliance with building code. Affixes signature topermit cards, certifying work and building is safe for occupancy.
- Ensures properties are safe for the public by effectively enforcing building codes.
- Interprets applicable code requirements and applies to proposed installations. Attends mandatorycontinuing education programs for maintaining all licenses and certifications.
- Provides supervision to recipients of permits in the form of Code enforcement/inspections.
- Assists, other inspectors, other cities/towns, the Melrose Fire Department and Melrose Police duringemergencies.
- On call 24 Hrs. a day and preforms off hour’s inspections during emergencies or as required.
- Supports clerical staff by filing, answering the phone, assisting customers at the front counter.
- Performs other duties as necessary.
Supervision
Supervision Scope: Performs varied and responsible functions requiring a advanced knowledge of Mass. State Building Code, Melrose Ordinances, technical expertise, working knowledge of Inspection Services departmental operations, and the exercise of judgment and initiative, particularly in situations not clearly defined by precedent or established procedures.
Supervision Received: Works under the general supervision of the Director of Inspection Services/ Building Commissioner and Assistant to the Director, following MGL, state codes, local ordinances and department rules, regulations and policies. Duties require the ability to plan and perform operations and independently completes tasks, within time schedules. Occasionally works under close supervision.
Supervision Given: Directs projects. Supervises and instructs builders and homeowners on how to comply with building codes.
Recommended Minimum Qualifications
Education, Training and Experience
- Associates degree from a Technical School plus 5-7 years of experience in the building industry are required or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
- Special Requirements:
- Massachusetts Construction Supervisors’ License (CSL).
- Massachusetts State Certification as Local Building Inspector.
- Valid Driver’s License is required
Knowledge: Extensive knowledge and experience with Massachusetts Building, HVAC, fire, and zoning codes. Excellent knowledge of how to read construction plans and understand building specifications. General knowledge of electrical, plumbing, other City codes, gas and health codes. Basic financial and record keeping knowledge; knowledge and experience with municipal/city government; knowledge of state, city, and local laws is required. Proficient knowledge to enter data and generate reports using software applications.
Ability: Ability to interact appropriately, frequently and tactfully with the public, property owners, business owners, contractors, real estate agents, architects, Fire and Police departments and other city employees and departments. Ability to maintain vehicle for conducting inspections. Ability to retain, and apply an understanding of building code requirements and knowledge for installations. Ability to create and maintain detailed records; ability to explain Department, state, city, and local building certification regulations and processes; ability to explain Department policies and procedures; ability to work independently; ability to set and follow detailed timetables. Ability to maintain Construction Supervisors’ License and Mass State Certification as a Local Building Inspector. Ability to create and generate reports using report writing software. The ability to collaborate and appreciate other’s viewpoints.
Skills: Excellent interpersonal skills, organizational and customer service skills. Demonstrated experience providing customer service to architects, real estate agency, Fire and Police Departments, contractors, business owners, the public, co-workers and municipal employees using tact, proper judgment, courtesy, respect and discretion. Skill in explaining decision making process and rationale to the public, architects, contractors, property owners and other customers. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse constituencies and ensure a culturally relevant and sensitive approach. Accomplished in demonstrating adaptability, and able to present and accept a diverse perspective. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, excellent computer skills including MS Office applications. Excellent skill for researching on Internet; knowledge and skill to locate websites to locate contractors’ licenses. Intermediate skills for data entry and generating inspection reports. Excellent skills for accessing electronical Codes, and manufacturers’ specifications for installations.
Job Environment
- Work is performed in an office, in-doors and out-of-doors; near moving mechanical parts and with moderate to loud noise level. Occasionally to regularly performs work in high precarious places, in places where there are fumes or airborne particles, and with work that has a risk of electrical shock. There may be heavy equipment and power tools operating during site inspections.
- Work is subject to fluctuations, and administrative deadlines. Employee routinely works overtime and is on-call for fire-related and other emergencies. Operates computer, printer, telephone, copier, facsimile machine and all other standard office equipment. Drives light trucks.
- The employee has frequent contact with the public, property owners, business owners, contractors, Fire and Police departments, architects, and other customers.
- The employee has limited access to confidential information.
- Errors could result in personal injury, delays or loss of service, monetary loss, and/or legal ramifications.
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, taste or smell. Occasionally, the employee is required to walk, sit, use fingers to handle or feel, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee is required to communicate, talk and hear. The employee frequently must lift and/or move objects weighing up to 10 pounds and occasionally must lift and/or move objects weighing up to 30 pounds. Vision and hearing at or correctable to normal ranges to read conduct inspections. Close, distance, color, peripheral vison and depth perception are necessary for inspections and safe operation of equipment. This position requires the ability to operate a keyboard at efficient speed, drive a vehicle for inspections, and drive light trucks, effectively.
Pay: $40.40 - $44.60 per hour
Benefits:
- Bereavement leave
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid jury duty
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Wellness program
Experience:
- building industry: 5 years (Required)
License/Certification:
- Massachusetts Construction Supervisors' License (Required)
- Massachusetts Sate Certification as Local Building Inspector (Required)
- Driver's License (Required)
Work Location: In person
