Job Description

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT:

The Inspectional Services Department (ISD) implements the City’s enforcement program related to the Massachusetts State Building Code, the City Zoning Ordinance, and portions of the State Sanitary Code. ISD prides itself on delivering excellent customer service and using enforcement as a tool to promote the health and safety of the Cambridge community.

Over 80% of greenhouse gas emissions in Cambridge comes from buildings. ISD ensures that new building construction and major renovations are energy efficient, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, prepare for and adapt to the effects of climate change, and support best practices for overall environmental performance.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under the general supervision of the Building Commissioner or Assistant Building Commissioner or Manager of Building Inspections, processes building permit applications and examines and approves plans for new buildings/structures, for repairs and alterations of existing buildings/structures in compliance with the State Building Code and other selected codes and ordinances. In addition, may be required to inspect buildings and structures under construction fulfilling the powers and duties of the Building Official as described in the current applicable building code. Maintains records, investigates, and addresses complaints, responds to questions from the public, prepares reports, coordinates with the demands of the department, testifies in court proceedings and performs related work as required.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Five years of full-time experience in the supervision of building construction or design and an Associate Degree in a field related to building construction or the equivalent combination of education, experience, and training.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or in a related field to building construction preferred.
• Potential candidates must demonstrate the ability to read and comprehend complex building plans and specifications, including engineering plans.
• General knowledge of building and related sciences and be certified by the Massachusetts Board of Building Regulations and Standards (BBRS) as a local building inspector or obtain such certification within 12 months of employment.
• A valid driver’s license and personal motor vehicle are required.
• Proven history of exceptional interpersonal and customer service skills, oral and written communication skills, as well as be known to exercise good judgement and be reliable with assignments.
• Fluency with computer use, particularly Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word, and handheld devices, and the ability to adapt to changing software are mandatory prerequisites.
• Commitment to anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. The City of Cambridge's workforce, like the community it serves, is diverse. Applicants must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT: Exposure to all weather conditions. Ability to negotiate in constrained areas, e.g., basements, attics, roof areas, etc. Some occasional lifting, pulling, pushing, squatting, and reaching. The work environment involves field inspections, office duties, such as counter, record room and other work as designated by Manager of Building Inspections.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:

• Resume
• Cover Letter