Building Code Official Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary

McHenry County is seeking an experienced Building Enforcement Officer to lead the daily operations of the Building Division within the Department of Planning and Development. This position oversees the processing, review, issuance, inspection, and enforcement of building permits and County-adopted building codes.

This is a key leadership role for a building code professional who is ready to supervise plans reviewers and inspectors, guide consistent code interpretation, support safe and responsible development, and provide professional service to property owners, contractors, applicants, County leadership, and the public.

The ideal candidate will bring strong technical knowledge, sound judgment, supervisory ability, and the confidence to manage complex permit, inspection, code enforcement, ordinance, and emergency inspection matters.

Essential Job Functions

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Building Division, including permit review, building code enforcement, inspection coordination, permit records, and customer service.
• Manage and assist with permit intake, building plan review, inspections, and code enforcement activities.
• Supervise plans reviewers, inspectors, and other assigned Building Division staff by assigning work, monitoring performance, reviewing work quality, providing training, and supporting staff development.
• Make recommendations regarding hiring, discipline, and termination of assigned employees.
• Provide oral and written interpretations of building codes, ordinances, policies, procedures, and related requirements.
• Assist property owners, contractors, applicants, and members of the public with permit, inspection, and code-related questions.
• Testify in court regarding building code requirements, construction violations, permit matters, and related enforcement issues.
• Assist and advise the County Board and department leadership on updates and revisions to building codes, fee schedules, ordinances, and related policies.
• Manage special projects involving policy development, ordinance interpretation, code research, operational improvement, or other advanced departmental needs.
• Respond to emergency inspection requests involving structural fires, structural damage, or other building safety concerns on a 24/7 basis.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Director of Planning and Development.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate's degree or higher from an accredited college or university with coursework in construction management, architecture, engineering, or a related field. Bachelor's degree preferred.

Five to seven years of progressively responsible related experience in building inspection, plans review, construction management, code enforcement, architecture, engineering, or a closely related field.

An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the essential functions of the position may be considered.

Valid driver's license required.

Preferred Licenses and Certifications

• ICC Certified Building Official certification; or
• Multiple ICC plans review and inspection certifications; or
• Licensed Architect or Licensed Engineer.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

The successful candidate should have strong knowledge of building construction codes adopted and enforced by McHenry County, construction methods, construction terminology, permit review practices, inspection procedures, and code enforcement practices.

This position requires the ability to read and interpret construction documents, building drawings, specifications, laws, ordinances, regulations, policies, and procedures. The candidate must be able to evaluate technical information, identify problems, collect and analyze data, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, and make sound recommendations.

The position also requires strong communication, supervision, customer service, organization, problem-solving, and technology skills, including the ability to use Microsoft Office, Outlook, building permit software, document management systems, and related tools.

Material and Equipment Used

• Computer and Microsoft Office applications
• DEVNET
• OnBase
• multi-line telephone
• Calculator
• Copier, scanner, and fax
• Digital camera
• Vehicle
• Other related office, inspection, and permitting equipment

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

Work is performed in both office and field settings. Office work is generally performed in a quiet office environment. Field work may include construction sites, industrial settings, damaged structures, or other inspection locations where moderately loud equipment, uneven surfaces, weather conditions, or site-related hazards may be present.

While performing the essential functions of the position, the employee is frequently required to sit, use hands to handle or feel objects, reach with hands and arms, read plans and documents, communicate verbally, and use computer systems. The position requires travel to inspection sites and availability to respond to emergency inspection requests outside normal business hours.

Benefits

McHenry County offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and other supplemental plans; Health Savings Account options; IMRF pension plan; deferred compensation through Nationwide Retirement Solutions; and paid vacation, sick leave, personal days, and holidays.

Equal Employment Opportunity

McHenry County is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law.