Electrical Inspector I

Main Purpose & Function 
The Electrical Inspector performs technical work of a regulatory and inspectional nature to ensure all types of electrical equipment and installations comply with the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), BC Safety Standards Act and Regulations and with various bylaw and code requirements (e.g. Building, Electrical and Sign by-laws). The position researches, inspects, documents and communicates results to impacted parties. Reporting to the Assistant Manager of Trade Inspections and Deputy City Electrician, the Electrical Inspector is assigned inspections. The Electrical Inspector communicates with Services Centre staff as required to facilitate customer meetings. The Electrical Inspector interacts regularly with contractors, engineers and property owners.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Inspects electrical installations at all types of occupancies (commercial, industrial and residential) to ensure work confirms with codes, bylaws and safety regulations
• Identifies infractions and documents as required; completes and issues Certification of Inspection (pass or fail) upon completion of inspection
• Documents results of inspection activities utilizing departmental information systems and technology and in written form as required; accesses information (e.g. code, product information) as required
• Verifies information such as permit status, building ownership and other information that assists with certification of inspections
• Reviews failed Certificate of Inspections and conducts re-inspections and follows-up on outstanding work and/or violations
• Maintains accurate inspection records and prepares concise inspection reports utilizing departmental information systems and technology
• Responds to on-site questions from contractors (e.g. Code interpretation)
• Responds to queries from customers at booked appointments and by phone during scheduled office time and documents pertinent information
• Maintains best practices and knowledge by researching electrical products, codes or bylaws as requested during scheduled office time
• Upon request by Fire Investigator, Vancouver Police Department, or BC Hydro, surveys wiring in buildings and issues report
• Upon request for "Change of Use" by customer, conducts survey of building or space and issues report
• Checks plans and specifications of electrical installations for new and renovated buildings, after and before permit issuance, and prior to commencement of installations
• Issues stop work orders at job sites where work is proceeding without required permits
• Issues no access notices as required
• Prepares work reports, logs Inspections and performs related clerical duties as required, utilizing information systems and/or manual processes for record keeping of Inspection outcomes;
• Investigates complaints and determines if by-law infractions have occurred
• Investigates fire damaged buildings to determine the extent of damage to electrical installations
• Investigates upon request of electrical utility, unsafe electrical installations in buildings
• Undertakes investigations as directed
• Prepares and presents evidence in court as required
• Maintains and updates records
• Prepares reports and correspondence
• Other duties/responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Journeyman Electrician with considerable experience in electrical work supplemented with experience as a construction foreman, superintendent or contractor required
• Field Safety Representative (FSR) A or B experience preferred
• Provincial Certificate of Qualification as a Safety Officer; experience as a Safety Officer preferred.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Considerable knowledge of the Vancouver Electrical By-law, applicable provisions of the Vancouver Building By-law and Sign By-law, the Canadian Electrical Code, and the BC Safety Standards Act and Regulations is required
• Considerable knowledge of technical problems in electrical installations and equipment and of public utility electrical installations and distribution systems
• Considerable knowledge in effective corrective measures when dealing with non-compliance in electrical wiring and equipment;
• Ability to examine, check and interpret plans and specifications and to recognize technical requirements for electrical installations and systems
• Ability to prepare and present evidence in court as required, to prepare reports and correspondence and to maintain records related to the work
• Ability to utilize, team and adapt to computer systems and technology related to the work
• Ability to work independently in the field and to make on-site evaluations and decisions
• Ability to deal tactfully, efficiently and effectively with the public (contractors, engineers and homeowners) on site, at the counter and on the phone
• Ability to enforce regulations and rules with firmness, impartiality and good judgement
• Skill in the use of tools, measures and standard testing devices of the electrical trades
• Skill in the detection and location of defective electrical wiring and construction