Senior Code Official - Building & Compliance Leader

McDowell County, NC; North Carolina; On-site; USD 90,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

McDowell County seeks a Chief Building and Code Official to lead building inspections and code enforcement, ensuring code compliance with NC Building Code and local ordinances. This role supervises inspectors, coordinates with the Director of Inspections, and oversees plan reviews, field inspections, and regulatory alignment, with occasional evening meetings.

The position requires extensive supervisory experience, certification readiness, and a strong grasp of construction codes, safety

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.

Responsibilities

• Interpret and enforce the North Carolina State Building Code and related laws, ordinances, regulations, and standards.
• Oversee commercial plan review and review construction plans for compliance prior to permit issuance.
• Serve as the senior technical resource for complex code interpretations and escalated code concerns.
• Perform inspections of buildings and systems to verify compliance with codes.
• Supervise, train, and develop inspectors; provide guidance and professional development.
• Establish consistent inspection practices and guidance on procedures and documentation.
• Coordinate with Planning, Environmental Health, Emergency Services, and other departments on development-related matters.
• Guide contractors and design professionals on applicable code requirements.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, violations, and enforcement actions.
• Provide technical assistance during unusual or high-priority inspections.

Skills

Leadership, team management

Reading plans & technical drawings

Communication

Permitting software

Code enforcement knowledge

Education

Construction management / engineering / architecture background

Tools

Permitting software

Job description

McDowell County seeks a Chief Building and Code Official to lead building inspections and code enforcement, ensuring code compliance with NC Building Code and local ordinances. This role supervises inspectors, coordinates with the Director of Inspections, and oversees plan reviews, field inspections, and regulatory alignment, with occasional evening meetings.

The position requires extensive supervisory experience, certification readiness, and a strong grasp of construction codes, safety