Plumbing Inspector

Introduction

Make a Difference with DHSS

Our mission at the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) is to improve the quality of life of Delaware citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. We prioritize personal and family independence by assisting individuals and families in a variety of life areas.

We offer numerous career opportunities and are dedicated to attracting and retaining highly talented individuals who are ready to make a difference in their community today. DHSS is a great place to kick-start your profession.

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Summary Statement

The position reports to an Environmental Health Specialist III within the Environmental Health Field Services office for Sussex County. The role is responsible for ensuring that plumbing construction, alteration, repair, and installation work performed by licensed plumbers and private homeowners complies with the State of Delaware plumbing code, as well as applicable codes, ordinances, regulations, and standards.

Essential Functions

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Receives and approves applications for plumbing permits. Determines applicable codes, ordinances, regulations and standards for perspective work. Evaluates required plans, drawings and specifications to ensure all requirements are met. Issues permits and coordinates with plumbers and homeowners to determine timing of site inspections.
  
• Inspects the installation of underground and roughed-in plumbing to assure work is done according to approved plans, specifications and acceptable plumbing standards by authorized persons. Performs final plumbing inspection upon completion of work. Contacts and/or meets with plumbers and homeowners to notify of work not in compliance with codes, regulations, etc. and to advise of requirements.
  
• Performs facilitating inspection services to enable health officials to insure the control of water and sewage related diseases.
  
• Receives, investigates and documents complaints and incidents concerning dangerous or improper conditions and water seepage and/or sewage. Determines causes and confers with property owners and/or tenants to explain and resolve problems. Notifies and/or coordinates with other appropriate enforcement/regulatory agencies, as necessary.
  
• Cites violation of codes, recommends and enforces corrective action. Conducts follow-up inspection(s). Works with superiors and the Attorney General's Office in cases that require legal action. Gathers evidence. Takes photographs of areas in violation. Testifies in court as necessary.
  
• Represents the agency in contacts with local, county and other State inspection and enforcement units on plumbing system issues. Performs special investigations of plumbing systems and/or develops and recommends corrective action plans.
  
• Interprets and explains plumbing code and related regulations to registered plumbers and homeowners.
  
• Prepares reports and maintains records pertinent to inspections and enforcement.
  
• Keeps abreast of changes in applicable codes, ordinances, regulations and standards.

Job Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Plumbing Inspector
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

• Possession of a Certificate of Registry as a plumber by the State Board of Health.
• At least ten years experience performing plumbing and sanitation work.
• Six months experience in ensuring compliance with laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures.