Job Specification Details

The Chief Heating and Plumbing Inspector Chairs the Plumbing Licensing Board, renders code interpretations, establishes inspection priorities, assists with code adoption, rulemaking and holds public hearings. Testifies at the State House as a subject matter expert, provides Code enforcement and inspection of plumbing and heating systems in an assigned region for the Department of Public Safety. Duties include technical field and office work involving inspection and regulatory work for plumbing and heating installations in new and existing public buildings. Work is performed under the direct supervision of a Fire Prevention Regional Manager with input from the Deputy Director and Division Executive Director on policy, rulemaking, and licensing.

Provides technical assistance on plumbing and heating system compliance related issues, including heat pump systems, water to water types of geothermal wells, heat recovery from refrigerant systems and air to air used for cooling and heating. Inspects plumbing and heating installations in new and existing public buildings. Reviews blueprints and specifications of proposed buildings to determine compliance with the plumbing code. Determines the application of the plumbing code. Approves plumbing installations and issues certificates of compliance and inspection reports. Reinspects installations not originally found in compliance. Makes recommendations for solutions to plumbing problems to assist in meeting code. Examines the work of licensed plumbers to determine competence, ability and compliance with the rules adopted by the Plumbers' Examining Board. Conducts comprehensive investigations regarding complaints of faulty plumbing installations to ensure compliance with the licensing laws and plumbing rules. Initiates enforcement procedures as necessary. Written citations may be presented to the owner, renter, unlicensed contractor, or licensed plumber. Prepares written Findings and Orders and affidavits to gain compliance. Responsible for training for state and municipal plumbing/heating inspectors. Chairs the Plumbing Licensing Board and offers technical code interpretations to resolve conflicts between inspectors, engineers, contractors and building owners. Provides testimony at the State House as a subject matter expert on plumbing health and safety. Responsible for reviewing and drafting the plumbing rules to adopt the IPC in collaboration with the Deputy Director of Fire Safety. Performs related duties as required.

Duties are performed in both an office and field setting involving a variety of construction and or renovation sites. An incumbent may expect to encounter physical conditions found at such sites, including exposure to potential danger, injury, and inclement weather. A large amount of travel between job sites is required for which private means of transportation may be required. The inspection enforcement nature of the work may result in situations where strong and differing opinions will arise, criticism of governmental regulations will be expressed, and potentially evasive actions attempted. Field duties may require work in contaminated environments, which require protective clothing and equipment.

Considerable knowledge of the principles and theories of plumbing.

Considerable knowledge of the procedures and practices involved in the installation of plumbing and heating appliances.

Considerable knowledge of the plumbing, heating, boiler, and pressure vessel codes adopted in Vermont.

Considerable knowledge in carbon monoxide detection, poisoning and determining defects in equipment that could potentially cause CO exposure.

Considerable knowledge of building, health, and safety codes enforcement by the state. Considerable knowledge of the Division's mission, standards, and goals.

Excellent verbal and written communicator.

License/or Certifications for job duties as follows: Plumbing License, Gas Certification, Oil Tech Certification, Backflow Tester Certification.

Advanced working knowledge of enforcement processes.

Skill in simplifying and presenting technical materials to the general public.

Ability to correctly interpret and apply complex rules, regulations, and codes to specific cases. Ability to provide excellent technical assistance and code interpretations to stakeholders.

Ability to develop appropriate administrative penalty tracking procedures. Ability to read and interpret blueprints, working plans and specifications. Ability to independently conduct inspections, and investigations.

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Ability to work in adverse conditions with limited supervision.

Ability to establish effective working relationships with co-workers, plumbers, architects, contractors, and the public.

Valid Vermont Master Plumbing License AND two (2) or more years working as a Plumbing Inspector.

Successful applicants must achieve natural and propane gas and oil burner certificate of fitness within one year of employment.

Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position to include Security Clearance, fingerprint supported Criminal Records, Motor Vehicle records, Personal History, Credit and any additional background check(s).