Plumbing Inspector I, (A241510-9), 205, Building Inspections

Conducts inspections of new and add-on commercial and residential construction to determine conformance to applicable plumbing codes; reviews plans of construction, alteration, or repair to determine whether plans, workmanship, materials, and related subsystems conform with existing plumbing code requirements.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description. 

• Plans and schedules assigned work; instructs and trains in correct methods and procedures; reviews and evaluates employee's performance
• Reviews and approves inspections for sprinkler systems, water meters, gas and water lines replacements and to install septic tanks with established policies and procedures.
• Conducts on-site inspections of water, sewer or gas line construction to check the progress and ensure compliance with city ordinances and plumbing codes.
• Conducts on-site inspections of building construction to ensure compliance with city ordinance and plumbing codes.
• Inspects gasoline tanks in new gas checks for gas lines leaks.
• Checks and reviews plan, specifications, and materials for conformance to existing plumbing codes.
• Point out deficiencies to contractors and explains requirements for conformance.
• Visits constructions sites to make inspections for conformance to existing codes; posts inspections and resettles on permits register; investigates complains concerning violations of the code.
• Explains and interprets plumbing codes and regulations.
• Assists in maintaining good communication between staff, visitors and other business contacts.
• Must follow all rules of telephone courtesy in all telephone communications.

COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF JOB DUTIES

Knowledge of:

• Knowledge of the existing ordinances, laws, and regulations governing plumbing installations and repairs used in inspecting commercial and residential construction sites to determine conformance.
• Knowledge of the materials, methods, and techniques of plumbing installation.
• Knowledge of arithmetic in order to compute permits fees and basic measurements taken in the field.

Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to read plans and specifications to determine conformance to the mechanical code.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with contractors, property owners, the public and co-workers.
• Ability to assist other employees in understanding the implications of codes and ordinances.
• Ability to make independent decisions in accordance with established polices and procedures.
• Ability to maintain good planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to take and follow directions from supervisor.
• Ability to give directions to and gain compliance from assigned staff.
• Ability to perform strenuous and routine work.
• Ability to maintain valid Texas Driver License and a good driving record.
• Ability to maintain harmonious and effective working relationships with other employees and respond to general public complaints.
• Ability to project a positive and professional image of the City of Laredo.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing in the English and Spanish language.
• Ability to comply with all City of Laredo policies and procedures.
• Ability to maintain good health and physical condition sufficient to permit the full performance of the duties of the position.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Occasional exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions and/or hazards.        Occasional outside work.
• Exerting up to 35 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly having to move objects.

• Confined space 

• Office or similar indoor environment
• Street environment (near moving traffic)
• Warehouse environment

• Outdoor environment
• Construction site
• Vehicles

• Individuals with known violent backgrounds
• Extreme cold (below 32 degrees)
• Communicable diseases
• Moving mechanical parts
• Fumes or airborne particles
• Toxic or caustic chemicals or substances 

• Individuals who are hostile or irate
• Loud noises (85+ decibels such as heavy trucks, jack hammers, construction) 

• Extreme heat (above 100 degrees)

• International travel

• Regional travel
• National travel

• Local travel

Required Education and Experience 

• High School Diploma or G.E.D. 

• At least six (6) years of experience in plumbing or building construction trade.

*Council of Higher Education Accreditation (C.H.E.A)

Required Licenses or Certifications

• State of Texas Journeyman Plumbing License is desirable.
• International Code Council Plumbing Inspector Certification is desirable.
• Plumbing Inspector License from the Texas Board of Plumbing Examiners must be obtained within one (1) year of employment.**

**Continued employment is contingent on successfully obtaining required certification(s) and/or license(s) within the specified period of time indicated above from time of hire.

Valid Texas Drivers License*

Valid Texas Driver License. If applicant holds an out-of-state license, a State of Texas Driver License must be obtained within 6 months of employment. 

As part of the minimum requirements for all positions with the City of Laredo, a thorough background check and certified school transcripts will be required from all applicants who are offered employment.

Effective February 24, 1997, all selected applicants are required to undergo a drug and alcohol test prior to employment.

Effective January 7, 2008, all persons in safety-sensitive functions/positions, as per City of Laredo Drug and Alcohol Policy definition, shall be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.

A person with a disability who needs a reasonable accommodation related to a selection process is requested to contact the Human Resources Department at (956) 791-7480 two days prior to the scheduled interview and/or test if applicable.