Town of Amherst
Lead Code Enforcement Officer
Inspection Services 

The Town of Amherst seeks a Lead Code Enforcement Officer to perform a variety of routine and complex technical duties in the inspection of buildings to ensure compliance with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts State Building Code, Sanitary Code, Fire Safety Codes, and the Amherst Zoning and General Bylaws. Serves as Senior Code Enforcement Officer; and coordinates the work of Inspectors, providing technical and programmatic guidance. 

MAJOR DUTIES:

• Administers and enforces the provisions of the assigned areas of code enforcement. Performs periodic inspections of multi-family housing, apartment complexes, places of assembly, and other properties, either independently or as part of a team. 

• Examines permit applications (e.g., plans to construct, reconstruct, alter, repair, remove or demolish a building or structure; plans to change the use or occupancy of a building or structure); Works with Permit Administrator and Licensing Coordinator to coordinate permit application reviews and approvals. Performs field inspections; Reviews plans for compliance with State Building Code, Energy Codes, Architectural Access Board Regulations, and the Zoning By-law. Resolves plan review and field inspection problems and complaints. Provides assistance in preparing permit applications and plans, including in the interpretation of codes and regulations. Issues permits and certificates. Makes referrals to outside departments and agencies where appropriate. 

• Resolves complex and sensitive customer service issues, reporting any unusual issues to the Building Commissioner. Manages the intake of complaints and violations; Monitors and maintains oversight of response times and investigations. Responds to citizen complaints or reports from other agencies about alleged violations of codes or by-laws; Makes on-site inspections; Prepares reports of findings. Reports violations to supervisor with recommendations for corrective action. Issues cease and desist orders, notices of violation, municipal tickets (fines) in accordance with state and local regulations, and/or revocation of certificates and registrations. Prepares materials for and testifies in court cases involving non-compliance or violations.  

• Maintains the Certificate of Inspection (COI) Program for residential buildings, including ensuring that the multi-family residential buildings are inspected on schedule, as required by the building code, coordinating inspections and any follow up, and collecting and maintaining records (e.g., inspection records; records related to fire alarm and fire sprinkler testing). 

• Maintains accurate records of permits, plan reviews, inspections, and activity levels; Prepares correction letters, detailed reports on building conditions and violations, and inspection results. 

• Works closely with and maintains communication with APD, AFD and University officials. 

• Provides education to property owners, renters and property managers regarding compliance with codes and regulations. 

• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Associates degree in building construction or design PLUS a minimum of five years of experience in the supervision of building construction or design; OR a combination of education and experience which demonstrates the ability to successfully perform the responsibilities of the position.

• Certification as a Local Inspector, as defined in Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 143, Sec. 3 and 94 as amended by Chapter 168 of the Acts of 1992
• Valid Massachusetts Driver's License
• In-depth knowledge of accepted requirements for building construction, fire prevention, light and ventilation, and safe egress
• In-depth knowledge of equipment and materials essential for safety, comfort and convenience of the occupants of a building or structure
• In-depth knowledge of State Building Code or nationally recognized general construction codes; and skill in applying knowledge of national uniform building codes, zoning and land use applications
• Considerable knowledge of or experience with carpentry work and cement work
• Ability to read and understand complex plans and blueprints
• Skill in the operation of listed tools and equipment
• Ability to work well with the public, including local contractors
• Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing 

Hiring Range - $32.67 - $43.91 per hour ($63,715 - $85,627 annualized) depending experience and/or qualifications. To view the full job description, visit https://amherstma.portal.opengov.com/categories/1089 

The Town enjoys a long tradition of active, participatory, & professional government, and seeks a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community.