Structural Engineer

Class Characteristics

Under general supervision, to review the most complex industrial, commercial, and residential building plans for compliance with Oregon Structural and Mechanical Specialty Codes, Oregon Residential Specialty Code and engineering requirements; and to do other work as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The Building Codes Division within the Department of Transportation and Development is responsible for administering the State of Oregon building and related codes and Clackamas County ordinances and regulations.

The Structural Engineer is a registered professional Structural or Civil Engineer in the State of Oregon. Incumbents provide professional engineering expertise in the review and comment on plans for building projects and mechanical systems of all sizes, types, classifications and complexities with no exceptions.

The Structural Engineer is distinguished from the Civil Engineer which plans and designs public works or related projects. This position is distinguished from the Plans Examiner A classification by the latter's lack of assigned responsibility for reviewing high rise structures and registration as a Professional Engineer (P.E.).

Typical Tasks

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

• Reviews building plans for compliance with structural and mechanical codes; reviews structural portion of fire sprinkler systems; reviews other types of plans and specifications related to a project.
• Performs field inspections when required on specific projects, singly or jointly with field inspectors and fire service; writes inspection reports, noting approvals or disapprovals and correction needed; places stop work orders when necessary.
• Assists in solving code related problems during both plan review and construction stages; evaluates and advises on alternative methods or materials to satisfy code requirements.
• Cooperates with fire prevention officials on projects in their districts during plans review and inspection stages on issues related to structures.
• Participates in preliminary project meetings with architects and personnel from other divisions of engineers, builders, owners, and personnel from other divisions of the Department.
• Provides codes and permits related information to the public.

Required Knowledge and Skills

Thorough knowledge of: Principles and practices of structural engineering; State of Oregon Structural and Mechanical Specialty Code provisions.

Working knowledge of: Basic principles and practices of civil and mechanical engineering; building construction methods and materials; County field inspection procedures and practices; County permit process and zoning regulations; English grammar and composition.

Skill to: Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; read and understand building plans, maps, legal descriptions and zoning laws; establish and maintain effective working relationships with builders, design professionals, and other concerned parties; maintain accurate records.

Working Conditions

Occasional duties in the field require walking, twisting, balancing, and involve exposure to inclement weather, noise, and slippery and/or uneven surfaces.

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum qualifications are used as a guide for establishing the minimum experience, education, licensure, and/or certifications required for employment in the classification. The following minimum qualifications are established for this classification. Additional minimum qualifications and special conditions may apply to a specific position within this classification and will be stated on the job announcement.

Experience: None required.

Licenses/Certifications:
The following licensure/certifications are required at the time of hire.

• Registration as a professional structural or Civil Engineer.
• Oregon Inspector Certification (OIC) and:
• The following State of Oregon certifications:
  • A-Level Structural Plans Examiner (PEA)
    
    -OR-
    
     
  • The following International Code Council (ICC) national certifications and be able to provide documentation showing the appropriate experience as outlined by the Oregon State Building Codes Division in order to convert these certifications to Oregon Certifications or be registered to take the necessary Oregon State Building Codes Division training class in order to convert the ICC certifications, within six (6) months of hire, to Oregon Certifications
  • ICC Building Plans Examiner (B3)
    
    -OR-
    
     
  • The following State of Oregon legacy certification:
  • State of Oregon A-Level Plans Examiner

Pre-Employment Requirements

Driving is required for County business on a regular basis or to accomplish work. Incumbents must possess a valid driver's license, and possess and maintain an acceptable driving record throughout the course of employment.

Edited: 8/16

Classification No. 916
Established: 11/90
Revised: 2/06, 8/17
FLSA: Exempt
EEO: 2