Chief Building Inspector

McDowell County; North Carolina; On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

McDowell County in North Carolina seeks a Chief Building and Code Official to lead the Building Inspections and Code Enforcement teams. You will supervise inspectors, interpret the NC State Building Code, enforce local ordinances, and coordinate with the Director of Inspections to align with department policies and priorities.

The role emphasizes consistent code enforcement, commercial plan review, and serving as the senior technical resource for complex interpretations, while promoting a fair,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in construction management or related field.
• Extensive experience in building inspections and code enforcement with supervisory responsibilities.
• NC Standard Level III certifications in Building, Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing within required timeframe.

Responsibilities

• Supervise inspectors and oversee building inspections and code enforcement.
• Manage commercial plan reviews for code compliance.
• Coordinate with Planning, Environmental Health, Emergency Services and other departments on development matters.
• Maintain complete records of inspections, violations, and enforcement actions.
• Provide training and professional development to staff.
• Stay updated on state building codes and related regulations.
• Represent the county in inspections-related matters.
• Ensure consistent, fair, and transparent inspection processes.

Skills

Leadership

Code enforcement

Building codes

Plan review

Inspections

Staff development

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Public interaction

Project coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in construction management or related field

Supervisory experience

Tools

Permitting software

Inspection software

Job description

General Statement of Duties

The Chief Building and Code Official provides leadership, supervision, and oversight of assigned inspection personnel and related code compliance activities within the County’s Building Inspections and Code Enforcement functions. This position supports the consistent application of North Carolina building codes, local ordinances, and adopted regulatory standards while coordinating with the Director of Inspections to ensure alignment with departmental policies, procedures, and priorities.

Distinguishing Features of the Position

The Chief Inspector provides direct supervision, technical guidance, and support to assigned inspection personnel while interpreting and applying complex building codes, coordinating with contractors and developers, and providing technical expertise on code compliance matters. The Chief represents the County in matters related to assigned inspection functions and promotes consistent code enforcement, regulatory compliance, and an efficient, fair, and transparent inspection process.

• Interprets and enforces the North Carolina State Building Code and related laws, ordinances, regulations, and standards.
• Oversees commercial plan review and reviews commercial construction plans for compliance with applicable codes, laws, ordinances, and regulations prior to permit issuance.
• Serves as the senior technical resource for complex code interpretations, disputed field issues, and escalated code compliance concerns.
• Performs inspections of buildings, structures, and associated systems to verify compliance with applicable building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical codes.
• Supervises, trains, and develops assigned inspectors; provides guidance, coaching, and professional development to support staff performance and ensure compliance with applicable codes and regulations.
• Establishes consistent inspection practices and provides technical guidance on inspection procedures, documentation, and code enforcement to promote accuracy, consistency, and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinates with Planning, Environmental Health, Emergency Services, and other departments on development-related matters involving commercial structures.
• Provides guidance to contractors, design professionals, and the general public regarding applicable code requirements and inspection procedures.
• Ensures accurate and complete recordkeeping of inspections, violations, and enforcement actions.
• Provides technical assistance during unusual, complex, or high-priority inspections requiring additional expertise or coordination.
• Monitors changes to state building codes, regulations, and related requirements and communicates applicable updates to department personnel.
• Ensures assigned inspection activities comply with County policies, established procedures, and applicable state requirements.
• Maintains current knowledge of applicable building codes, inspection technologies, and industry best practices through continuing education and professional development.
• Assists in investigating alleged code violations and coordinating appropriate enforcement actions with the Director of Inspections and other applicable County personnel.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of the North Carolina State Building Code and applicable laws, regulations, and standards.
• Strong understanding of building construction methods, materials, safety requirements, and zoning principles.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans, engineering documents, and technical specifications.
• Skill in leadership, team management, and effective communication.
• Ability to exercise sound judgement in the interpretation and enforcement of complex regulations.
• Ability to maintain positive working relationships with contractors, design professionals, citizens, and County staff.
• Ability to communicate tactfully with the public and staff and to relate information to contractors, homeowners, and management in an effective manner.
• Proficiency with permitting and inspection software systems.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with coursework related to construction management, engineering, architecture, public administration, or a related field; equivalent experience may be substituted.
• Extensive experience in building inspections, construction, or code enforcement, including supervisory responsibility.
• Must hold or be able to obtain Standard Level III certifications in Building, Electrical, Mechanical and Plumbing in accordance with the NC Code Officials Qualification Board within the required timeframe.
• Possession of a valid NC drivers license.

Physical Requirements

Work involves office duties and field inspections. Fieldwork may require walking, climbing, bending, lifting moderate materials, and exposure to construction sites and varying weather conditions.

Special Requirements

Subject to occasional evening meetings, emergency responses, and after-hours consultation as needed.