Senior Code Official
Date Posted: Jun 1, 2026
Requisition ID: 477917
Location:
Indianapolis, IN, US, 46204
Work for Indiana
Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.
About the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS):
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) leads Indiana's emergency planning and operations, first responder training, and fire and building safety. The Indiana State Fire Marshal leads the Division of Fire and Building Safety (within IDHS), which oversees the enforcement of building codes and includes a fire investigations unit. The agency certifies and trains thousands of first responders and also hosts state-level exercises each year. IDHS also supports the state Emergency Operations Center (EOC), which leads response and coordination efforts for large-magnitude incidents.
Role Overview:
The Senior Code Official works independently after receiving general instruction and is responsible for evaluating and determining the code compliance of the routine to most complex submitted building plans and specifications and/or when conducting compliance inspections during the construction phase. Work is reviewed on a spot check basis for technical adequacy and conformance with the state's various fire and building codes and regulations. Supervisory staff is available to discuss unusual problems at the discretion of this role. Those with professional experience in reviewing construction drawings/blueprints and experience using Adobe are encouraged to apply.
Salary Statement:
The salary for this position traditionally starts at $53,222.00 but may be commensurate with education or work experience.
A Day in the Life:
The essential functions of this role are as follows:
Interpret various fire and building codes, laws, rules and regulations and appropriately applies them to specific routine to very complex Class I and industrial construction projects submitted.
Review and release submitted building plans and specifications or inspect construction projects for compliance with applicable state fire and building codes, laws, rules and regulations.
Prepare and issue documentation for releases such as construction design releases, foundations, addenda, correction requests, etc.
Report non-filed projects and/or construction violations making recommendations on the issuance of noncompliance orders.
Explain and interpret the various fire and building codes and their applicability to architects, engineers, building and fire officials, contractors, manufactures, property owners and/or lower- level staff.
Prepare correspondence to explain fire and building code revisions and answers general code inquiries.
Exercise authority over incomplete and/or non-conforming plan submissions until required documents are received.
Investigate and attempt to resolve complaints.
Assist in the training of new review and/or inspection staff by functioning as a mentor, providing code education, and specific on-the-job training.
Advise, coordinate, and/or conduct training for local fire and building code enforcement officials.
Prepare and submit technical reports regarding plan review and/or field inspections and prepare and submit routine administrative reports such as itineraries, monthly mileage, and attendance.
Monitor changes (new adoptions and amendments) in laws, codes, rules, regulations, and procedures that relate to Class I and industrialized building projects in the state.
Promote the development of local building departments through meeting with locally elected and appointed officials and special interest groups (e.g. trade associations).
Serve as a witness in court on code violations as required.
The job profile is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.
What You'll Need for Success:
Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:
Be willing to travel with reasonable accommodation.
Ability to achieve national certification as a Plans Examiner and Certified Building Inspector within three years of being hired.
Practical experience in building design, design review, construction inspection or construction supervision.
Extensive and specialized knowledge of, and ability to, interpret the state's various adopted fire and building (structural, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, accessibility, energy conservation etc.) laws, codes, rules, and regulations and apply them to plan review or inspection practices.
Extensive knowledge of construction principles, practices, and procedures.
Ability to read, understand, and evaluate construction plans, specifications, and shop drawings for compliance to applicable fire and building codes.
Ability to use the measuring and mechanical devices related to design and construction practices.
Ability to effectively and tactfully communicate with design professionals, contractors, property owners, elected and appointed officials, and the public regarding technical issues of noncompliance, codes, complaints, and administrative procedures.
Ability to use various office equipment such as computers, printers, copiers etc.
A degree is not required.
Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.
Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:
Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
Education Reimbursement Program
Group life insurance
Referral Bonus program
Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
Free Parking for most positions
Free LinkedIn Learning access
Equal Employment Opportunity:
The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.
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