Land Use & Building Inspector

Contribute to a vibrant and thriving city by joining our Community Development Department as a Land Use & Building Inspector. In this role, you’ll work closely with property owners, architects, engineers, planners, and contractors to ensure compliance with the City of Durango’s Land Use and Development Code and International Building Codes. You’ll collaborate with City departments and the public to make sure that all City ordinances, including land use and zoning regulations, are followed. Your role will also involve responding to public inquiries about code violations, conducting enforcement activities, and helping to maintain the safety of residential and commercial buildings through clear communication and a commitment to building standards. 

What You’ll Do in This Role:

Code Compliance:

• Inspect properties with alleged code violations, verifying compliance with zoning, nuisance, and building codes.
• Respond to complaints about violations by interviewing complainants and witnesses, taking photographs, and documenting activities.
• Research property uses to ensure compliance with special and conditional approvals; contact property owners and take enforcement actions as needed.
• Collaborate with external agencies such as police, fire, and health departments on code enforcement actions as needed.
• Collaborate with external agencies such as police, fire, and health departments on code enforcement activities and prepare related reports.
• Prepare and send violation notices, track compliance, and refer violators to Municipal Court when necessary.
• Serve as a resource for other City departments regarding zoning and code requirements.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare reports on inspections and surveillance activities.
• Assist in preparing case reports and testify in court or administrative hearings when required.

Building Inspection: 

• Inspect commercial and residential buildings at various stages of construction and remodeling, ensuring compliance with building, plumbing, and mechanical codes.
• Inspect existing buildings and premises to verify compliance with codes and ordinances, including changes in use or occupancy.
• Inspect structural elements such as foundation, concrete, steel, masonry, framing, and plumbing, as well as other building system components.
• Issue violation notices and maintain records for potential legal actions.
• Provide assistance at the front counter, working with architects, contractors, and the public to explain code requirements and issue permits.
• Attend meetings and stay informed about new laws and developments in building inspection. 

You Have:  

• High school diploma or GED, plus at least one year of specialized training in the building trades, construction, and/or code enforcement.
• Two years of code enforcement and building inspection experience.
• Four years of construction experience.
• Knowledge of building-related codes and ordinances enforced by the City, including international building, plumbing, and mechanical codes, as well as City zoning, housing, and nuisance regulations.
• Commitment to following safety standards, building construction methods, and best practices for avoiding occupational hazards.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to explain building inspection ordinances and regulations. 

*Qualified candidates must maintain a valid Colorado driver’s license and pursue International Code Council Certification upon employment. 

What We Can Offer You:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Ample personal time off (PTO) and 11 paid holidays.
• 401(a) retirement plan and optional deferred compensation plan.
• Basic life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.
• Long-term disability coverage.
• Paid Family and Medical Leave (FMLA).
• Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Free access to the Durango Community Recreation Center and Chapman Hill Ice Rink & Ski Area.
• Holistic Employee Wellness Program, addressing physical, mental, financial, and professional well-being.
• Free transit pass and family member discounts.
• Reimbursement for job-related classes to foster continuous learning.
• Sixteen hours of volunteer time off per year to support local non-profit organizations.

Belong at the City of Durango: 

We believe in creating an inclusive workforce that welcomes diversity of thoughts, viewpoints, and experiences. 

The City of Durango is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis age 40 and over, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, military or veteran status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or any other applicable status protected by state or local law. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions are based on job-related factors.