Purpose & Overview
Under the general supervision of the Public Works Director, the Chief Building Inspector leads the Building Inspection Division by providing managerial direction, administrative support, and technical expertise. This position ensures consistent, fair, and effective enforcement of local, state, and federal building, zoning, and related codes to protect public health, safety, and welfare. The Chief Building Inspector supervises staff, reviews construction plans, issues permits, conducts and oversees inspections, interprets codes, and resolves compliance issues for residential, commercial, and existing structures.
This role collaborates with other City departments, contractors, architects, developers, property owners, and the public to facilitate safe construction and maintain community standards. The position serves as a key advisor on code-related matters and represents the division in official proceedings.
- Plan, organize, and direct division operations by establishing objectives, policies, procedures, and work standards to maintain efficient and consistent code enforcement.
- Supervise, hire, train, evaluate, and discipline Building Inspection Division staff to ensure high performance, compliance with City policies, and effective delivery of inspection services.
- Prepare and administer the annual division budget to support staffing, equipment, training, and operational needs.
- Review residential and commercial building plans, specifications, and calculations to verify compliance with applicable building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, energy, and zoning codes.
- Conduct and oversee field inspections of construction projects to ensure work meets approved plans and code requirements, protecting public safety and health.
- Interpret codes, resolve compliance disputes, and provide technical guidance to staff, contractors, and the public to facilitate accurate application of regulations.
- Investigate complaints, enforce code violations, issue orders, and direct condemnation or razing of unsafe structures to maintain safe and habitable properties.
- Represent the division at City Council meetings, judicial proceedings, and Zoning Board of Appeals to present evidence, recommendations, and expert testimony.
- Recommend ordinance updates and oversee staff training to keep the division current with evolving codes and best practices.
Qualifications
Knowledge:
- Thorough knowledge of building, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and energy codes governing construction, use, and occupancy.
- Thorough knowledge of approved building construction methods, materials, tools, and equipment.
- Working knowledge of supervisory practices and employment law.
- Working knowledge of City zoning ordinances, property maintenance, housing, and public nuisance codes.
Skills:
- Strong leadership and supervisory skills to effectively manage and develop staff.
- Ability to read, interpret, and analyze complex plans, specifications, blueprints, and technical drawings.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills to clearly explain codes and requirements.
- Skill in enforcing regulations firmly, tactfully, and consistently with diverse stakeholders.
Ability to:
- Communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
- Detect code deficiencies in plans and construction to prevent safety hazards.
- Exercise sound judgment and initiative in prioritizing work and resolving complex problems.
- Establish and maintain effective, professional working relationships with staff, contractors, property owners, officials, and the public.
- Prepare accurate records, reports, and correspondence to document division activities.
Requirements/Special Requirements:
A combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge and abilities. A typical way to qualify includes:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, architecture, or a related field from an accredited college or university.
- Five years of experience as a licensed professional engineer, architect, or superintendent of building construction.
- Two years of full-time experience in performing commercial building inspections.
Special Requirements:
Licensing Requirement: Must obtain and maintain State of Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code Construction Inspector Certification and Commercial Building Inspector Certification within twelve months of hire.
Background Investigation: Must pass a background investigation prior to hire.
Oath of Office Requirement: Will be required to take an oath of office.
Driver's License Requirement: Must possess valid driver's license or be able to provide suitable transportation as approved by the Department Head.
Post Job Offer Medical Examination Requirement: Must pass medical exam for specified occupational grouping and drug screen prior to hire.
Probationary Period Requirement: Must pass a twelve month probationary period to demonstrate skills and abilities to perform the requirements of the position.
Residency Requirement: None.
Full-time employees are eligible for Wisconsin Retirement System, Health/Dental/Life Insurance, and Paid Time Off.
Exempt, not eligible for comp time or overtime.
Annual safety-toed boot allowance.
https://www.superiorwi.gov/154/Union-Contracts-Non-Union-Benefits-Polic
