Building Commissioner

Allen-County; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Building Commissioner for Allen County reports to the Allen County Board of Commissioners and leads the Building Department to enforce local building codes and ensure safe construction practices across the county.

The role requires strong budget management, strategic planning, and effective communication with officials, contractors, and the public. The position includes supervision of staff and coordination with allied agencies.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED with at least eight years in commercial or residential construction or related field
• Inspector Certification within the first year of employment
• Valid Allen County Contractor’s License or equivalent as a commercial contractor

Responsibilities

• Oversee interpretation and enforcement of building codes and project reviews.
• Monitor permits data, economic impact, and generate reports.
• Manage department budgeting and financial planning.
• Issue permits and licenses to contractors.
• Lead strategic planning, program development, and staff training.
• Supervise staff and handle employee relations.
• Respond to inquiries and attend meetings with stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Building codes knowledge

Budgeting & accounting

Interpersonal skills

Public speaking & presentations

Supervision

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Inspector Certification within 1 year

Contractor's License (Commercial)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Department: Building FLSA Status: Exempt

Classification/Level: Executive, PG-2 Date: 07/2023

Under the direction of the Allen County Board of Commissioners, the Building Commissioner is responsible for

providing leadership, managing and operating the department, and effectively utilizing its assets and resources to accomplish the department's objectives. This position is Not Covered (at-will) as defined by The Board of Commissioners of the County of Allen Handbook.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Accountable for supervising the implementation of building codes, including interpreting them, reviewing projects, and ensuring compliance.

• Accountable for monitoring and documenting data pertaining to the quantity and categories of permits, as well as assessing their economic impact, and generating relevant reports as necessary.
• Manages the financial planning and budgeting processes within the department.
• Oversees the issuance of permits and licenses to contractors.
• Conducts strategic planning, program development, and training initiatives.
• Handles employee relations and provides supervision to staff members.
• Addresses complaints, attends association and neighbourhood meetings, and addresses public inquiries regarding building codes.
• Engages with professional organizations, state and local building officials, and contractors.
• Responsisble for tracking data related to number and types of permits, economic impact and providing appropriate reports as needed.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Completion of High School Diploma or GED, accompanied by a minimum of eight years of experience in the field of commercial or residential construction, such as roofing, siding, drywall, commercial concrete, or similar relevant experience
• Possession of a valid Driver's License for frequent travel in a county vehicle to various locations, including construction sites or other facilities
• Hold a valid Allen County Contractor's License or an equivalent license obtained from another jurisdiction, specifically as a commercial contractor
• Attain a valid Inspector Certification within the first year of employment
• Comprehensive knowledge of construction trades and familiarity with state and local building codes to ensure compliance with building requirements in Allen County
• Strong interpersonal skills to proficiently handle and resolve complaints and concerns raised by staff and contractors
• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively address complaints and concerns raised by citizens
• Proficiency in budgeting and accounting principles to oversee the Department's budgets
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, enabling the delivery of presentations and effective correspondence with elected officials, department heads, and the general public
• Ability to ensure adherence to Department policies and procedures
• Effective management skills, including the ability to provide training to others
• Proficiency in computer skills, specifically in utilizing Microsoft Office and other software relevant to the job requirements

DIFFICULTY OF WORK:

The role of the Building Commissioner encompasses a multitude of variables and factors when overseeing the administration of building codes, including interpretation, project review, and enforcement. Sound judgment is essential when selecting the most suitable guidelines and developing appropriate solutions for building and contracting matters. Additionally, the Building Commissioner plays a crucial role in overseeing department financial planning and budgeting, requiring the exercise of judgment to ensure effective financial management.

RESPONSIBILITY:

The Building Commissioner undertakes a diverse set of responsibilities that necessitate careful consideration of numerous factors. These responsibilities encompass overseeing permit/licensing and inspection activities for contractors, as well as the administration of building codes, including interpretation, project review, and enforcement. Furthermore, exercising sound judgment is crucial when making decisions regarding departmental financial planning and budgeting, as it entails selecting the most appropriate guidelines.

PERSONAL WORK RELATIONSHIPS:

The Building Commissioner regularly interacts with various individuals, including county employees, members of the general public, and contractors. This interaction takes place during activities such as addressing complaints, attending association and neighbourhood meetings, and providing responses to code-related inquiries from the public.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The Building Commissioner performs duties in both office and field settings, where they can expect regular exposure to a variety of weather conditions and physical hazards typically found in construction sites and inspection areas. The responsibilities of the Building Commissioner may involve tasks such as lifting objects weighing up to 50 lbs, reaching overhead, kneeling, climbing ladders, and frequently bending and walking on uneven surfaces.

SUPERVISION:

The Building Commissioner is tasked with the responsibility of supervising all activities within the Building Department. They collaborate closely with the Assistant Building Commissioner to ensure the department is managed with effectiveness and efficiency. This encompasses various duties, including hiring, training, evaluating performance, implementing corrective measures, and managing terminations when required.

LICENSING:

Valid Driver’s License to for frequent travel in a county vehicle to various locations, including construction sites or other facilities.

Valid Allen County Contractor’s License or equivalent from another jurisdiction as a commercial contractor

Valid Inspector Certification within one year of employment

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:

Allen County Board of Commissioners