Chief Building Official
Community Development Department – Building Division
City of Sonoma, California
Annual Salary: $122,720 – $149,167 DOE/DOQ
*title pending City Council approval on March 20th, 2024
View the full recruitment brochure here
The City of Sonoma is seeking a Chief Building Official (CBO) with an innovative mindset, hands-on work ethic, and experience as a leader. They will oversee a staff of four in the Building Division, within the Community Development Department, which provides permit issuance, plan review, and building inspection services. This role holds the esteemed position as the City’s designated authority responsible for the administration and enforcement of local, state, and federal codes pertaining to buildings and structures within the municipality. Additionally, they serve as the designated Floodplain Administrator for the City. The ideal candidate is eager to contribute to the positive culture of the Division; encouraging excellent customer service, collaboration, communication, and the ability to get to “yes” by seeking creative solutions during the planning and permitting process. They should be a warm and engaging administrator with a flexible mindset. The CBO will build positive relationships with other City departments, community clients, design professionals, and contractors. They will also champion the Division’s exciting new efforts to streamline, digitize, and accelerate permitting timelines. Join a dedicated team in the beautiful City of Sonoma as they provide excellent customer service, build partnerships, and serve the community – apply today!
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate is an experienced building inspector and/or plans examiner with prior knowledge of common permit tracking systems. Proficiency in conducting comprehensive plan reviews and field inspections, coupled with the ability to identify and address potential code violations, is crucial for maintaining the safety and integrity of structures within the municipality. Expertise in interpreting and applying complex building standards and requirements is essential, as is the capacity to use advanced technology and software systems for permit processing, data management, and reporting purposes.
Beyond technical ability, they will demonstrate exceptional leadership skills, having previously held supervisory roles within building departments or similar organizations. They should exhibit enthusiasm for motivating and inspiring a team and encouraging collaboration, accountability, and excellence. The CBO will be comfortable conveying complex technical information clearly and concisely to a diverse range of stakeholders, including architects, contractors, engineers, and the general public. They are approachable and responsive, dedicated to serving customers while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. With a strategic mindset, the ideal candidate will develop and implement innovative policies, procedures, and initiatives that advance the goals of the Building Division and contribute to the overall growth and prosperity of the community.