Utility Construction Inspector

Full-Time, Permanent, Safety Sensitive Construction Inspector Position

This posting will be used to fill a full-time, permanent, safety sensitive construction inspector position in utility operations in the department of public works. This is technical work in the field of construction inspection which involves the inspection of sewage pumping stations, force mains, low pressure sewer systems, water mains and systems and patch paving contracts.

Nature and variety of work involves the inspection of a variety of complex construction work performed by contractors or by the county for conformance with specifications, ordinances, and regulations. Work is normally performed independently and requires the use of technical judgment and discretion; however, consultation with a superior is required on the more difficult or unusual cases. Guidance and direction are provided to subordinate construction inspectors responsible for inspecting phases of the assigned projects. Work is reviewed by technical superiors for completeness of reports and results obtained.

Examples of duties and knowledge, skills and abilities include performing inspections at various sites within the county of a wide variety of contract and force-account construction projects such as roads, storm drains, water and sewer services, subdivisions, and other public works and utility construction projects to ensure adherence to specifications and standards. May provide guidance and direction to a small staff of subordinate employees responsible for limited inspection phases of assigned projects; periodically inspects assigned job and is responsible for assuring proper compliance with specifications and regulations relating to workmanship and materials; ensures proper stake-outs and spot checks grade and property lines. Reviews and checks blueprints, plans, and sketches for proposed construction, alteration, or repair; recommends changes and improvements. Confers verbally and in written communication with contractors, engineers, property owners, and other interested parties; explains and interprets construction codes, regulations, and specifications as well as county zoning ordinances; approves minor field changes. Coordinates efforts of private and public utility adjustments and installations during the course of an assigned project. Inspects residential building permits, short-form public works agreements, and minor subdivisions. Transports equipment and tools to and from construction sites, operates and maintains equipment which are designed to measure, check tolerances, photograph, and designate problem areas. Performs designated function with tools at construction sites and other designated areas to measure, check tolerances, photograph and designate problem areas. Prepares and maintains necessary records and reports. Performs related work as required.

Positions in this class of work are required to lift, or cause to be lifted, tools, machinery and equipment weighing from one to one thousand pounds.

Considerable knowledge of the materials, methods, and practices used in various types of construction and of the stages in construction when possible defects and violations may be most easily observed and corrected. Considerable knowledge of possible defects and flaws in construction and of effective corrective measures. Considerable knowledge of the codes, regulations, and ordinances governing construction, alteration, and repair. Ability to recognize complex conditions likely to result in collapse or failure of facilities and structures under construction. Ability to read and interpret complex construction plans, specifications, and blueprints, and to recognize deviations from such plans in the construction process. Ability to explain, interpret, and enforce codes and regulations firmly, tactfully, and impartially. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, county officials, contractors, architects, property owners, and the public. Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.

Minimum qualifications include graduation from high school or vocational school; two (2) or more years of technical and trades experience in a variety of construction work, to include inspections; and a valid non-commercial class c motor vehicle operator's license. Note: this position is safety sensitive and employees in this position are subject to controlled dangerous substance (cds) and alcohol testing.

Supplemental qualifications include preference will be given to candidates with experience in the installation and inspection of water systems, gravity and pressure sewer systems, pumping stations, grinder pumps.