**ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR
Pay Range MBD

INTRODUCTION This classification performs regular to complex duties in inspecting all types and stages of commercial and/or residential electrical installations, to include review of electrical plans, to ensure compliance to Oregon State codes and the National Electrical Code, as adopted by Douglas County. Supervision is not a regular responsibility of this position, however, incumbent is expected to take a leadership role in assisting less experienced inspectors, including providing assistance on training assignments and on-site inspections of a difficult or unusual nature.  The electrical inspector is a multi-certified inspector having received A-level electrical and residential electrical code certifications through State administered testing, including manufactured home inspector certification. 

To promote effective and uniform enforcement of national and state electrical codes, an inspector must possess the appropriate type and level of certification for the work being inspected.  Furthermore, the inspector is required to continue education in appropriate field and remain current in code changes through approved courses that earn affirmation credits.

EXAMPLES OF PRINCIPAL DUTIES (Duties assigned to this classification include, but are not limited to, the following examples.  Any one position may not perform all listed tasks.)

1. Inspects electrical installations and systems during construction to ensure compliance with applicable national and state requirements.

2. Reviews electrical plans (blueprints) for completeness and compliance with County codes and policies, as required to assist applicants.

3. Assists and advises the general public in matters relating to electrical equipment, products and code requirements.

4. Reviews commercial plans for code compliance, as required.

5.  Prepares written reports, issue notices to correct violations; issues “stop work” notices.  Maintains records and compiles reports of   inspection activities.

6.  Provides advice and guidance to individuals with limited electrical skills to assist such persons in complying with applicable codes.

7.  When warranted, represents County in court to testify regarding electrical installations.

8.  Investigates complaints and inspects existing electrical systems and appliances to determine if hazardous or illegal conditions are present.

9.  Provides electrical code training to other department personnel.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED OF THIS POSITION 

Knowledge of:  Considerable knowledge of electrical principles, practices, and procedures as applied to commercial and residential construction; considerable knowledge of construction and manufactured home inspection methods; considerable knowledge of National Electrical Code, Oregon Revised Statutes, Oregon Administrative Rules, Oregon specialty codes, city and county ordinances that govern electrical inspection. Skill and ability to:  Detect electrical, fire life safety, and other violations; ability to read and interpret plans and specifications and to compare them with construction in progress. Ability to:  Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms; conduct inspections, document findings, determine corrective actions and implement compliance according to appropriate specialty codes; establish and maintain records and reports; make decisions independently in accordance with established rules and regulations and use initiative and judgment in carrying out tasks and responsibilities; utilize problem identification and resolution techniques; remain calm and use good judgment during confrontational or high pressure situations; efficiently manage time; ability to establish cooperative relationships and courteously meet and deal effectively with contractors, co-workers, architects, engineers, city officials and the general public.

Education, experience and training: Electrical Inspector requires ten (10) years experience in electrical trade and six (6) months inspection experience in specialty code. At time of hire, incumbent must possess Oregon State Electrical Inspector certification, and Oregon State Dwelling Electrical Inspector certification.  At time of hire, or within 30 days of hire, incumbent must possess a valid Oregon driver’s license.  Within six (6) months of hire, incumbent must obtain Oregon State Manufactured Dwelling Inspector certification.

Desirable qualifications: A-level certification in more than one specialty code.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS OF THESE POSITIONS

Work is performed under the general direction of the building services supervisor, who outlines assignments and reviews work through meetings and reports. Recurring routine assignments are independently performed by employee on basis of past experience.  The employee receives general instructions regarding the scope and approach to projects or assignments, but procedures and problem resolution are left to the employee's discretion and interpretation.  Employee estimates and manages time efficiently.  Work is reviewed periodically to ensure determinations and decisions made are in compliance to department policy and procedures.

GUIDELINES

Work is performed within established departmental policy and procedure; National Electrical Code, Oregon state statutes and rules, as adopted by Douglas County. Electrical inspector uses considerable judgment in determination and enforcement of appropriate code.  Deviations from these codes are referred to the Building Official.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Regular and consistent attendance is required.  Work is primarily performed in a field inspection environment and involves climbing, crawling in confined areas, hearing voice conversation, keyboarding, lifting up to 15 pounds, standing and walking in structures under construction and on uneven ground.  Work is performed in an environment that involves everyday risks and discomforts and sometime adverse weather conditions requiring safety precautions.  Extensive driving up to 200 miles per day is required.