The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for a Building Inspector for the Inspectional Services Department. Under the direction of the Building Commissioner, the position is responsible for enforcement of Massachusetts building codes and city zoning ordinances, examining building plans to ensure compliance with state building code (780CMR) and requirements of State Architectural Access Board (521CMR), NFPA (72 & 13) fire protection systems, zoning, and other related laws, regulations, and standards. Work involves judgement in situations that demand immediate corrective action. Some evening work is required.
 
Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
 
ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS:

• Examination and determination of applications and plans for the construction, alteration, demolition, location use, occupancy and maintenance of all buildings and structures in the city
• Conduct inspections on residential, apartment buildings (three or more units) for lodging houses, assisted living residences, Day Care facilities, Hospitals, and Group home facilities. lodging houses
• Approve or deny permits, and issue certificates of inspection, notices of violations, and stop work orders.
• Perform inspections of building and construction projects for conformance with approval plans for certificates of occupancy; safety checks, and to ensure compliance with the building codes and zoning ordinances.
• Investigate complaints of building and zoning violations, conduct routine checks of buildings to ensure continued conformance to applicable laws and regulations.  Appear in court to enforce code provisions as necessary.
• Supervise, inspect, and certify for compliance with architectural, structural, and egress requirements of the Mass State Building Code for schools, churches, nursing homes, rest homes, skating rinks, hospitals, funeral parlors, swimming pools, restaurants, and multi-family apartment buildings with three or more units.
• Answer questions from homeowners, contractors, and architects and other City departments regarding codes, zoning requirements, permit application procedures, etc.
• Compose reports and maintain records on all inspections performed.  May
• Provide interpretation or recommendations to Zoning Board of Appeals
• Assist in on-call and after-hour inspections for overcrowded assembly use, and complaint-based inspections that relate to zoning and/or building code violations

• Knowledge of the requirements for building construction, fire prevention, ventilation, and safe egress.
• Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Suite; and excellent time management skills.  
• Ability to enforce and interpret laws, codes, and regulations firmly, tactfully, and impartially
• Exercise independent judgement and decision making
•  Demonstrate tact and diplomacy in dealing with the public as well as city employees and officials
• Prepare general reports, maintain accurate records
•  Work independently; adapt to varying work & weather conditions
•  Analyze and evaluate facts
•  Excellent communication skills
• Communicate and work effectively with diverse populations
• The qualified candidate must be a Certified Local Building Inspector OR have the ability to become certified within eighteen (18) months of appointment, by the Standing Certification Committee of State Board of Building Regulations and Standards in accordance with M.G.L. 143 & 3 and CMR 780.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in building construction and/or design; OR,
• An equivalent combination of education & experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the required duties of the position will be considered in lieu of the above-mentioned requirements.
• Five (5) years of experience in the supervision of building construction
• Certified Local Building Inspector, OR ability to become certified within eighteen (18) months of appointment, by the Standing Certification Committee of State Board of Building Regulations and Standards in accordance with M.G.L. 143 & 3 and CMR 780.
• Valid MA driver’s license and have reliable transportation

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Knowledge of state and local regulations, codes, and ordinances, that apply both locally and to Massachusetts State Building Code.
• Ten (10) years of experience in the supervision of building construction.