CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER - HOUSING (SIDE-BY-SIDE)

City of Santa Fe Springs; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Polk County is seeking a qualified inspector to evaluate residential dwellings, perform required tests, and oversee construction contracts for housing programs. You will inspect various building systems, determine repairs, and prepare bid documents and cost estimates.

The role requires strong knowledge of building codes, ability to interpret plans, and the capacity to travel to sites. Training in lead-safe practices is required within six months of hire.

Qualifications

• Graduation from high school or equivalent, and
• Two years of college or technical training in Construction Technology, Engineering, or related field, and
• Two years of experience in residential construction, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, residential building energy conservation or related, or
• Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Technology, Engineering, or related field, or
• Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Candidate must obtain Iowa Health and Human Services Lead Safe Renovator certification within six months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Inspect homes to determine repairs for housing programs.
• Examine electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems for needed repairs and replacements.
• Prepare cost estimates, bid packets, and review contractor proposals.
• Coordinate with homeowners and contractors on projects.

Skills

Construction knowledge

Computer skills (Word, Excel, Access)

Education

High school diploma

Two years college/technical training in Construction Tech/Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Tech/Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Access

Job description

IMPORTANT: This position is considered a \"side by side\" status. This means the position is of temporary status until the current incumbent returns to work from a leave status. Once the incumbent of this position returns to work, the position is subject to elimination.

Under general supervision, performs responsible work in evaluating/inspection of residential dwellings for home repairs, conducting required tests, coordinating with homeowners, preparing bid documents, oversight of contract construction, authorization of change orders, evaluating program eligibility, and recommending approval of contractor payments.

Illustrative Examples of Work

• Conducts home visits to inspect and evaluate homes to determine repairs for various housing programs; examines residential home electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems for needed repairs and/or replacement of components as well as foundation, walls, and roof structure repairs to residences; tests gas fired heating systems, water heaters, and appliances for carbon monoxide; tests furnace and water heaters for back draft/spillage; inspects gas, water, and sewer lines; recommends specific actions to correct problems.
• Inspects completed work to ensure compliance with applicable jurisdictional codes related to building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.
• Determines project specifications and material lists; prepares cost estimates; prepares bid packets; reviews proposed projects, determines feasibility of individual projects; recommends selection of qualified contractors for bid awards; secures homeowner authorization as appropriate.
• Conducts open houses on eligible properties for interested contractors; meets with interested parties to complete construction contracts.
• Reviews requests and recommends approval of contractor payment requests.
• Establishes and maintains accurate and complete files, prepares documentation, researches records and codes, and prepares required reports and records.
• Explains various Housing programs and procedures to the public, outside agencies, and community groups; coordinates with other departments for efficient delivery of services.
• Attends training, seminars, and professional meetings to remain current on construction techniques and code requirements.
• Performs related duties as assigned; may be assigned to other areas of Code Enforcement.

Required Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Knowledge of the methods, materials, and techniques involved in building construction, repair, alterations, energy conservation practices, electrical plumbing and mechanical systems.
• Skill in the use of computers and departmental software applications including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access.
• Ability to compile, calculate, analyze, and evaluate technical data.
• Ability to interpret and apply codes, ordinances, and regulations and explain them to the public and/or contractors.
• Ability to read, interpret, and analyze plans, blueprints, drawings and diagrams.
• Ability to use persuasion, tact, and diplomacy to effectively resolve disputes.
• Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment.
• Ability to keep accurate records and prepare clear, concise reports.
• Ability to perform math calculations using prescribed formulas.
• Ability to identify defects or flaws in building construction and determine corrective measures.
• Ability to use digital readouts, take accurate measurements, and operate diagnostic equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to travel to remote work sites.
• Ability to climb, hike, and walk in all types of terrains in inclement weather.
• Ability to crawl in and out of small confined spaces.
• Ability to routinely lift and carry ladders and test equipment weighting up to 60 pounds.
• Ability to occasionally push and pull up to 75 lbs.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other County employees, skilled workers, building and property owners, contractors and the public, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment.

Training and Experience

• Graduation from high school or equivalent, and
• Two years of college or technical training in Construction Technology, Engineering, or related field, and
• Two years of experience in residential construction, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, residential building energy conservation or related, or
• Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Technology, Engineering, or related field, or
• Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Candidate must obtain Iowa Health and Human Services Lead Safe Renovator certification within six months of hire.

Required Certifications

• Candidate must obtain Iowa Health and Human Services Lead Safe Renovator certification within six months of hire.

Special Requirements

• Candidate must pass a post-employment offer physical examination and physical capacity testing to ensure candidate meets the essential physical requirements of the position.
• A drug screen is required prior to final offer of employment.
• A criminal background check is required.
• A valid State of Iowa driver’s license is required.

Polk County is committed to providing a work environment that is representative, at all levels, of the citizens we serve. Equal opportunities are available to all applicants and current employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.

Polk County Employment Benefits