Building Code Specialist

Main Purpose and Function

This is complex advisory work which involves making independent and technical interpretations and decisions on behalf of the Chief Building Official with regard to the Building By-law (code) as it relates to permitting.

This position oversees the Certified Professional (CP) process and ensures that all required information is provided by the Professional Engineer / Architect applicant for Building Permit Applications submitted through this technical stream.

This position also plans, coordinates and directs the activities of the Project Coordinators engaged in plans examination and permit issuance.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Authorizes Building Permit Issuance (compliance with the Building By-law)
• Comments, interprets and applies the intent and purpose of the Building By-law to projects as required
• Manages Certified Professional projects and completes direct code review of complex projects
• Resolves questions and problems from Professional Engineers and Architects and from novice general public
• Works with CBO staff to provide detailed technical analysis of Alternative Solutions
• Facilitates discussions with design professionals, consultants, contractors and developers regarding the interpretation of various by-laws, codes and guidelines and assisting applicants in understanding the regulations that affect construction and plans approval
• Provides specialized advice and answers technical questions from the City’s Inspection staff, Health Inspectors, Fire staff and Engineering staff
• Supervises and mentors several specialized technical staff (Project Coordinators), providing technical guidance and training;

authorizes issuance of their permits

• Advises the CBO’s office on policy and code issues and proposes amendments
• Completes occasional building inspection and site inspection
• Other duties / responsibilities as assigned

Qualifications

Education and Experience :

• Degree in Architecture or Civil or Mechanical Engineering with registration or eligibility for registration as a Professional Engineer or Architect in the province of BC
• Considerable experience in plans examination and interpretation of the Building By-law, BC Building Code, Fire Protection Codes and other relevant codes and standards
• Preference given to those completing the Certified Professionals Program through Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of BC (APEG)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities :

• Complete understanding of intent and purpose of the Building By-law and associated by-laws, codes and standards and their appropriate interpretation
• Familiarity with building design and materials
• Experience in fire protection measures for high buildings
• Leadership, mentoring and supervisory experience
• Superior verbal and written communications skills to deal effectively with the public and design professionals
• Understanding and familiarity of the City of Vancouver Building and Development process

Where operationally appropriate and subject to change, the City of Vancouver has a Flexible Work Program. This program allows staff to work remotely 1 4 days a week from locations that are a daily commutable distance from their work at a City worksite.

At this time this position is eligible to be part of the Flexible Work Program.

Business Unit / Department : Development, Buildings & Licensing (1250)