Building Official

Job Objective:

Under the general direction and supervision of the Director of Public Works, issue building
permits, render code interpretations, enforce all code provisions, plan, organize and direct the
activities of the Building Division of the Department of Public Works. Perform building inspections
and examine building and site plans.

Individuals assigned to this classification are expected to possess and apply a thorough knowledge
of uniform building, mechanical and plumbing codes, applicable City municipal codes and State of
Washington codes to work situations requiring the use of judgment to interpret these regulations.

Job Location and Equipment Utilized:
Work is performed indoors in an office environment, also in the field, in all types of weather
conditions. Driving a city vehicle is required. Work occasionally requires being in high places and
around machinery and equipment used in building construction. Attendance at some evening meetings
is required. Equipment utilized includes calculator, computer, measuring tapes, VHF radio,
electronic level and standard office equipment.

Essential Job Functions:
? Meet with developers, contractors, and architects to solve problems and coordinate inspections.
Coordinate projects with applicable City departments.
? Direct, train, evaluate performance and initiate disciplinary procedures of employees assigned to
the Building Division. Consult with Supervisor as necessary regarding these activities.
? Inspect, approve, disapprove, write correction notices, issue stop work notices and perform
other functions to ensure that each aspect of construction, alteration or repair in compliance with
applicable codes, regulations and building plans. Inspections typically involve framing, concrete,
masonry, footings, plumbing, mechanical, heating, ventilating or similar installations in
commercial and residential building and/or supervise employees engaged in these functions.
? Maintain records of construction progress and results of inspection to assure compliance with
applicable City, state and uniform codes.
? Investigate and resolve citizen complaints.
? Recommend the initiation of abatement or condemnation proceedings to Supervisor where public
health, safety and welfare may be in jeopardy.
? As required, perform oral presentations to the City Council.
? Assist in budget preparation for the Building Division as part of Public Works.
? Perform special projects or assignments as directed by Supervisor.
? Member of the City’s Development Review Committee.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Requires knowledge of the field of assignment and physical ability sufficient to perform thoroughly
and accurately the full scope of responsibility as illustrated by example in the above job
description.
? Requires extensive knowledge of principles of building construction.
? Requires full scope knowledge of municipal building, zoning and related codes, ordinances and
regulations and of federal, uniform and state codes and regulations.
? Requires ability to interpret plans, specifications, and engineered drawings to compare with
construction in progress.
? Requires ability to work cooperatively and effectively with building owners, developers,
contractors, architects and the public.
? Requires ability to guide building division employees in a manner conducive to efficient and
effective performance and positive morale.
? Requires ability to utilize a computer and other standard office equipment.
? Requires ability to communicate and deal with people effectively.
Required Physical Traits:
? Requires ability to stand, walk, climb, and crawl for extended periods of time and to work
outdoors in all types of weather conditions.
? Requires visual acuity to read and interpret engineered drawings and blueprints and to utilize a
personal computer.
? Requires hearing acuity to utilize a VHF radio and telephone.
? Requires ability to drive a city vehicle.
Qualifications:
? A hi