Town of Bluffton

JOB SUMMARY The purpose of this position is to administer and enforce various Town and state codes regulating the construction, use, and occupancy of buildings and structures for the Town of Bluffton (Town).  This position also: performs inspections of residential, commercial, industrial, and other buildings during and after construction to ensure code compliance; ensures that plan reviews and inspections are conducted on a timely basis; answers technical questions on code compliance; and performs related administrative, and technical work.    ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Serves as Chief Building Official; ensures compliance with all applicable Town policies and procedures, and other laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances.  Administer and enforce South Carolina, Town of Bluffton building code, applicable local ordinances, and other construction regulations. Conducts commercial plan reviews; communicates with architects, engineers, contractors, and owners throughout the process of planning, correcting, and issuing the permit.  Supervises and manages division employees including building inspectors, plan reviewers, and administrative staff. Oversees inspections of residential and commercial properties for compliance with building codes and safety standards.  Evaluates and makes recommendations for changes in the Town’s ordinances related to building inspections, permitting, and any other building safety related ordinance changes.  Interprets building codes and regulations.  Meets with contractors and design professionals to coordinate plan review, inspections, and permitting activities.  Receives and responds to technical inquiries regarding building codes, permitting, and safety compliance; acts as a subject matter expert for the public and building community. Attends training, conferences, seminars, meetings, etc., to maintain awareness of current legislation, trends, and technology in the building inspection and plan review field.  Receives, reviews, and approves construction/architectural plans, site inspection reports, correspondence, permit applications, etc.  Ensures timely and accurate issuance of certificates of occupancy; ordinances; plan review reports; inspection reports; citations; performance appraisals; and related division records. Collaborates with the immediate supervisor, Town Departments and outside design professionals to resolve complex technical building issues. Directs and leads inspectors during damage assessment procedures. Performs other related duties as assigned.     QUALIFICATIONS Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in architecture, structural engineering, building, construction management, building science, or a related field; and five to seven (5-7) years of work experience as a building inspector or in the general construction field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.      Licenses or Certifications: Valid South Carolina driver’s license (or obtain one by time of hire). Hold (or obtain within 12 months of hire) a Building Official Certification (International Code Council) and maintain required number of CEU’s as directed by the State of South Carolina to remain certified as a Building Official.   Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Extensive knowledge of International Building Codes (IBC), including structural, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and ADA accessibility standards. Knowledge and comprehensive understanding of South Carolina-specific building laws, state statutes, and Town of Bluffton ordinances. Knowledge and mastery of the standards required for Chief Building Official (CBO) certification through the International Code Council (ICC). Knowledge of the methods, procedures, and policies of a municipal Building Safety Office and its integration within a Growth Management Department. Knowledge of occupational hazards and standard safety precautions within the construction industry to ensure a safe environment for staff and the public. Skill in modern office practices and specialized technology used for municipal records management, permitting, and word processing. Skill in reviewing complex construction plans, blueprints, and technical specifications for strict code compliance. Skill in developing and delivering high-impact public presentations and translating complex technical information for non-technical audiences. Ability to establish and maintain productive, professional working relationships with developers, engineers, Town staff, and the general public. Ability to maintain high level of tact and diplomacy when navigating sensitive compliance issues or disputes with contractors and property owners. Ability to provide clear instruction, professional advice, and technical guidance to subordinates to foster a high-performing and knowledgeable team. Ability to assemble and analyze complex data, identify development trends, and prepare comprehensive reports for Town leadership. Ability to maintain professional composure and make decisive, accurate judgments during emergency situations or under high-pressure deadlines. Ability to interpret the intent of the code in unique or complex construction scenarios to ensure safety while supporting municipal growth goals.   PHYSICAL DEMANDS Positions in this class perform medium work requiring the exertion of up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and 30 pounds frequently. Manual dexterity and mental acuity are essential for data analysis and code interpretation. Field duties require frequent climbing, crawling, crouching, and reaching. Candidates must have the visual and auditory acuity to inspect facilities, identify structural/electrical defects, and communicate safety standards effectively.   WORK ENVIRONMENT Duties are generally performed in a moderately noisy location (e.g., construction sites, office location with computer, telephone, and other related equipment).  When working in the field, there is some exposure to a variety of weather conditions, odors, electrical currents, construction hazards, or toxic agents.  Job duties may require working on-call after hours as scheduled in order to respond to emergencies.   

Job Summary PLEASE MAKE NOTE OF THE EXPERIENCE NEEDED. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE THE NEEDED CERTIFICATIONS FOR THE BUILDING INSPECTOR II POSITION, PLEASE LIST ON YOUR COVER LETTER THAT YOU ARE INTERESTED IN THE BUILDING INSPECTOR I POSITION. The purpose of this position is to inspect construction sites and structures to ensure compliance with all codes required by law and regulation and established Town construction practices and procedures for the Town of Bluffton (Town).    Essential Job Functions Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with the building officials, other Town management and personnel, area businesses, homeowners, contractors, architects, engineers, developers, other related professionals, and the general public.     Responds to internal and external customer questions and comments in a courteous and timely manner.   Conducts inspections of construction sites and structures for compliance with all building, plumbing, electrical, gas, energy, and mechanical codes as adopted by the Town including other Town ordinances regarding setbacks and buffers; notes specific violations; ensures construction is in accordance with approved plans including completing job site reports of addressing any specific violations; and documents inspection history in computerized tracking program.   Interprets codes and regulations; explains permit and compliance conditions.   Keeps daily logs including photographs for recordkeeping and verification purposes.   Uses survey instruments, meeting devices, and test equipment in performing inspections.   Verifies alignment, level, and elevation of structures to ensure building meets specifications.   Documents and maintains complete and accurate records of all inspections and any regulatory actions taken; prepares written reports and correspondence; and issues notices to correct code violations.   Confers with and provides information regarding code requirements to developers, engineers, architects, property owners, the public, and other interested parties.   Addresses any complaints or problems from concerned parties; takes appropriate measures to ensure an expedient resolution in a timely and courteous manner.   Investigates complaints regarding unauthorized or non-compliant construction; issues “stop work orders” as necessary.   Reviews, approves, or denies single family building plans and drawings for new construction, remodeling, or renovations to ensure compliance with applicable ordinances; contacts contractors regarding needed information; documents plan violations; determines flood zones and compliance with FEMA requirements; and determines required inspections based on construction plans and drawings.   Educates and trains superintendents and subcontractors on code, compliance, and efficiency.   Conducts research on code related issues and manufacturer’s specifications.   Participates in post disaster recovery plan, including conducting on-site inspection of properties following declared disasters; assesses structures for damage; and determines safety and habitability of all structures.   Communicates and coordinates regularly with appropriate parties to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of operations and activities.   Performs other related duties as assigned.    Qualifications Education and Experience:   High school diploma or equivalent; and five (5) years of work experience in the building construction field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.       Licenses or Certifications:   Valid South Carolina driver’s license.  At least four certifications (either in commercial or residential) required in:  Building; Electrical; Mechanical; and Plumbing.     Special Requirements:    None.     Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:       Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local codes related to required work. Knowledge of construction industry practices, methods, operations, and materials.     Knowledge of investigation techniques and methods of inspection related to the construction trades.     Knowledge of Department policies and procedures.   Skill in communicating, both verbally and in writing.   Skill in being tactful, discrete, and persuasive.   Skill in delivering customer service.   Skill in using computers and related Department software.   Ability to enforce regulations in a fair and impartial manner.     Ability to interpret, analyze, and make recommendations on construction plans, construction codes, ordinances, and blueprints.     Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions for extended periods of time.   Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.   Physical Demands & Work Environment The work is medium work. The employee is frequently required to apply 30 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. The employee is occasionally required to exert up to 50 pounds of force to move objects.  In addition, positions in this classification typically require balancing, climbing, crawling, crouching, feeling, grasping, handling, perceiving sounds at normal speaking levels, discriminating among sounds, kneeling, lifting, manual dexterity, mental acuity, pulling, pushing, reaching, repetitive motion, speaking, standing, stooping, expressing ideas by the spoken word, shouting to be heard above ambient noise, visual acuity to analyze data/work with color or depth perception/determine accuracy or observe facilities/operate motor vehicles or equipment/inspect defects or fabricate parts, and walking.   Duties are generally performed in a moderately noisy location (e.g., construction sites; office location with computer, telephone, and other related equipment. Work involves exposure to a variety of weather conditions and terrains for extended period of time.   The Town of Bluffton has the right to revise this job description at any time. This  description does not represent in any way a contract of employment. The Town of Bluffton commits to a policy of equal employment opportunity for applicants and employees, complying with local, state and federal laws. The Town’s policy is to employ qualified persons without discrimination regarding race, creed, color, religion, age, sex, country of national origin, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, political affiliation, ethnicity, or status in any other group protected by federal/state/local law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Job Summary The purpose of this part-time position is to perform manual work directing school traffic and assisting children to/from school for the schools within Town of Bluffton (Town).    Essential Job Functions Controls traffic at designated crossing enabling children to cross safely. Regulates children using the crossing ensuring that they obey traffic regulations.   Reminds drivers of the presence of children, pedestrians, and bicyclists.   Helps parents to feel comfortable about their children walking or bicycling to/from school.   Addresses situations when children fail to cooperate; reports children as required.   Performs other related duties as assigned.    Qualifications Education and Experience:   High school diploma or equivalent; and no work experience required; equivalent combination of education and experience.       Licenses or Certifications:   Valid South Carolina driver’s license.     Special Requirements:    Requires reliable motor vehicle transportation.     Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:       Knowledge of traffic regulations. Knowledge in preparing reports and other types of correspondence. Knowledge in the use of standard office equipment and associated software. Knowledge in the use of the equipment required for the position.   Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with parents, teachers, general public, and members of the Police Department.   Ability to work in inclement weather throughout the year.   Ability to follow oral and written instructions.   Ability to deal courteously and firmly with children, vehicle operators, school personnel, and citizens.   Ability to analyze situations.   Ability to adopt quick, effective, and reasonable courses of action surrounding hazard circumstances.   Physical Demands & Work Environment The work is light work. The employee is frequently required to apply 10 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. The employee is occasionally required to exert up to 20 pounds of force to move objects.  In addition, positions in this classification typically require balancing, climbing, crouching, feeling, grasping, handling, perceiving sounds at normal speaking levels, discriminating among sounds, kneeling, lifting, manual dexterity, mental acuity, pushing, reaching, repetitive motion, speaking, standing, stooping, expressing ideas by the spoken word, shouting to be heard above ambient noise, visual acuity to analyze data/work with color or depth perception/determine accuracy or observe facilities/operate motor vehicles or equipment/inspect defects or fabricate parts, and walking. Duties are performed primarily outdoors under various weather conditions with exposure to fumes, dust, and airborne particles; exposure to toxic chemicals; and exposure to vibrations and loud noises (such as traffic). Other work is generally performed in a moderately noisy business office with copy machines, phones, and printers along with some light foot traffic.  This is a part-time position.   The Town of Bluffton has the right to revise this job description at any time. This  description does not represent in any way a contract of employment. The Town of Bluffton commits to a policy of equal employment opportunity for applicants and employees, complying with local, state and federal laws. The Town’s policy is to employ qualified persons without discrimination regarding race, creed, color, religion, age, sex, country of national origin, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, political affiliation, ethnicity, or status in any other group protected by federal/state/local law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Job Summary The purpose of this position is to perform protective service work and enforce laws for the Town of Bluffton (Town).  Duties include; enforcing laws; investigating criminal activity; ensuring safety of public; maintaining records and files; testifying in Court; and preparing reports.   Essential Job Functions Attends and successfully completes the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy (SCCJA).   Completes the field training officer program which consists of:     Operates patrol vehicle or walks to observe for violations of traffic laws, suspicious activities or persons, and disturbances of law and order; operates specialized police equipment; and  maintains a visible police presence throughout the community.   Interviews victims and witnesses; obtains additional information regarding crimes, accidents, violations, etc.   Investigates crimes; collects evidence; and conducts searches.   Responds to radio dispatches; answers calls and complaints; serves warrants, summons, etc.; and completes arrest records.   Participates in illegal drug enforcement operations; conducts surveillance.   Makes arrests; testifies in Court; and prepares incident and various special reports.   Conducts traffic stops; enforces traffic laws; investigates accidents; issues traffic citations; directs traffic; and provides first responder medical assistance.   Provides police escorts; directs traffic; amd performs residential and commercial security checks.   Participates in a variety of in-service and special training programs.   Responds to and investigates domestic disputes; assists other law enforcement agencies when assigned.   Reports dangers of defective streets, sidewalks, traffic lights, or other hazardous conditions.   May be assigned to collateral duty assignments such as school resource officer, investigations, etc.; works on assigned shifts.   Performs other related duties as assigned.    Qualifications Education and Experience:   High school diploma or equivalent; and no experience required but some law enforcement experience preferred; or equivalent combination of education and experience.       Licenses or Certifications:   Valid South Carolina driver’s license.   Possess a South Carolina Criminal Justice Training Academy  (SCCJA) certification.   Special Requirements:    None.   Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:       Knowledge of police methods, practices and procedures.   Knowledge of the rules and regulations of the Police Department.   Knowledge of the geography of the Town and location of important buildings.   Skill in using firearms.   Skill in operating a police vehicles.   Skill in establishing and maintaining maintain effective relationship with associates and the general public.   Ability to carry out oral and written instructions.   Ability to prepare clear reports,   Ability to deal professionally, courteously, and fairly with the public.   Ability to analyze situation.   Ability to adopt quick, effective, and reasonable courses of action when dealing with hazardous circumstances.   Physical Demands & Work Environment The work is light work.  The employee is frequently required to apply 10 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. The employee is occasionally required to exert up to 20 pounds of force to move objects.  In addition, positions in this classification typically require balancing, climbing, crawling, crouching, feeling, grasping, handling, perceiving sounds at normal speaking levels, discriminating among sounds, kneeling, lifting, manual dexterity, mental acuity, pulling, pushing, reaching, repetitive motion, speaking, standing, stooping, expressing ideas by the spoken word, shouting to be heard above ambient noise, visual acuity to analyze data/work with color or depth perception/determine accuracy or observe facilities/operate motor vehicles or equipment/inspect defects or fabricate parts, and walking.   Duties are regularly performed outdoors under various weather conditions with: exposure to fumes, airborne particles, and bloodborne pathogens; exposure to toxic substances, electrical hazards, and explosives; exposure to vibrations and loud noises (such as traffic); and occasionally working in cramped or high places.  Work requires dealing with potentially hostile or violent individuals, performing strenuous tasks, or potentially wearing protective gear such as respirators.  Duties are also performed in a moderately noisy business office with copy machines, phones, and printers along with some light foot traffic.  This job requires workings various shifts as scheduled.   The Town of Bluffton has the right to revise this job description at any time. This  description does not represent in any way a contract of employment. The Town of Bluffton commits to a policy of equal employment opportunity for applicants and employees, complying with local, state and federal laws. The Town’s policy is to employ qualified persons without discrimination regarding race, creed, color, religion, age, sex, country of national origin, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, political affiliation, ethnicity, or status in any other group protected by federal/state/local law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Job Summary The purpose of this position is to perform protective service work and enforce laws for the Town of Bluffton (Town).  Duties include; enforcing laws; investigating criminal activity; ensuring safety of public; maintaining records and files; testifying in Court; and preparing reports.   Essential Job Functions Operates patrol vehicle or walks to observe for violations of traffic laws, suspicious activities or persons, and disturbances of law and order; operates specialized police equipment; and  maintains a visible police presence throughout the community.   Interviews victims and witnesses;  obtains additional information regarding crime, accident, violation, etc.   Investigates crimes; collects and processes evidence; and conducts searches.   Responds to radio dispatches and answers calls and complaints; serves warrants, summons, etc.; and completes arrest records.   Participates in illegal drug enforcement operations; conducts surveillance.   Makes arrests and testifies in Court; prepares incident and various special reports.   Conducts traffic stops; enforces traffic laws; investigates accidents; issues traffic citations; directs traffic;  and provides first responder medical assistance.   Provides police escorts, directs traffic; performs residential and commercial security checks.   Participates in a variety of in-service and special training programs.   Responds to and investigates domestic disputes; assists other law enforcement agencies when assigned.   Reports dangers of defective streets, sidewalks, traffic lights or other hazardous conditions.   May be assigned to collateral duty assignments such as school resource officer, investigations, etc.   Performs other related duties as assigned.    Qualifications Education and Experience:   High school diploma or equivalent; and two (2) years of law enforcement work experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.       Licenses or Certifications:   Valid South Carolina driver’s license.   Possess a South Carolina Criminal Justice Training Academy certification.  Certifications/Training/Exams preferred: Pass Police Officer II Exam; CMT Operator; DUI//SFST Certification; Radar; Basic SWAT; Basic Investigations: and FTO Certification.   Special Requirements:    None.     Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:       Knowledge of police methods, practice,s and procedures.   Knowledge of the rules and regulations of the Police Department.   Knowledge of the geography of the Town and location of important buildings.   Skill in using firearms.   Skill in operating a police vehicles.   Skill in establishing and maintaining maintain effective relationship with associates and the general public.   Ability to carry out oral and written instructions.   Ability to prepare clear reports,   Ability to deal professionally, courteously, and fairly with the public.   Ability to analyze situation.   Ability to adopt quick, effective, and reasonable courses of action when dealing with hazardous circumstances.   Physical Demands & Work Environment The work is light work.  The employee is frequently required to apply 10 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. The employee is occasionally required to exert up to 20 pounds of force to move objects.  In addition, positions in this classification typically require balancing, climbing, crawling, crouching, feeling, grasping, handling, perceiving sounds at normal speaking levels, discriminating among sounds, kneeling, lifting, manual dexterity, mental acuity, pulling, pushing, reaching, repetitive motion, speaking, standing, stooping, expressing ideas by the spoken word, shouting to be heard above ambient noise, visual acuity to analyze data/work with color or depth perception/determine accuracy or observe facilities/operate motor vehicles or equipment/inspect defects or fabricate parts, and walking.   Duties are regularly performed outdoors under various weather conditions with: exposure to fumes, airborne particles, and bloodborne pathogens; exposure to toxic substances, electrical hazards, and explosives; exposure to vibrations and loud noises (such as traffic); and occasionally working in cramped or high places.  Work requires dealing with potentially hostile or violent individuals, performing strenuous tasks, or potentially wearing protective gear such as respirators.  Duties are also performed in a moderately noisy business office with copy machines, phones, and printers along with some light foot traffic.  This job requires working various shifts as scheduled.   The Town of Bluffton has the right to revise this job description at any time. This  description does not represent in any way a contract of employment. The Town of Bluffton commits to a policy of equal employment opportunity for applicants and employees, complying with local, state and federal laws. The Town’s policy is to employ qualified persons without discrimination regarding race, creed, color, religion, age, sex, country of national origin, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, political affiliation, ethnicity, or status in any other group protected by federal/state/local law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.