Chief Building Official

Community Development Department | Town of Vail | Full-Time, Exempt

Position Overview

The Town of Vail is seeking an experienced and collaborative Chief Building Official to lead our Building Safety and Inspection Services division within the Community Development Department. This leadership role is responsible for protecting the health, safety, and welfare of our community by ensuring compliance with adopted building, plumbing, mechanical, and life-safety codes throughout all phases of construction and development.

As Chief Building Official, you will oversee building inspections, plan review, permitting, code interpretation, and division operations while leading a team of inspectors and plans examiners. This role serves as a trusted advisor to staff, contractors, architects, engineers, homeowners, business owners, and Town leadership on complex building code matters and construction-related issues.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and manage the Building Safety and Inspection Services division, including supervision, coaching, performance management, and professional development of staff.
• Oversee the building permit process from application through project completion and certificate issuance.
• Interpret and administer adopted building, plumbing, mechanical, and related codes to ensure intent, compliance, and public safety.
• Manage commercial and residential plan review and inspection activities to verify code compliance for new construction, remodels, additions, and repairs.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, utility providers, homeowners, Town staff, and external agencies to facilitate efficient project delivery and problem solving.
• Support departmental operations including budgeting, strategic planning, policy implementation, code adoption, and process improvements.
• Serve as liaison to the Town’s Building and Fire Code Appeals Board and provide technical guidance on complex code interpretations.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must apply online through the Town of Vail careers portal.

To be considered for this position, applicants are required to submit the following:

• A fully completed online application
• A current resume
• A cover letter outlining qualifications, relevant experience, leadership philosophy, and interest in serving the Town of Vail community

Incomplete applications or submissions missing required materials may not be considered.

We encourage applicants to highlight experience related to building code administration, plan review, inspections, leadership, customer service, municipal operations, and regulatory compliance.

Applications will be reviewed as received.

Skills / Requirements

We are seeking a knowledgeable and approachable leader who combines strong technical expertise with exceptional customer service, sound judgment, and a collaborative leadership style.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, construction/project management, or a closely related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in building code administration, inspections, plan review, construction management, or a closely related field.
• Certified Building Official (CBO) designation through the International Code Council (ICC), or ability to obtain/maintain as required.
• Minimum of four (4) ICC certifications, with preferred certifications including Building Plans Examiner, Building Inspector, Mechanical Inspector, and Plumbing Inspector.
• Valid Colorado Driver’s License (or ability to obtain upon hire).

Desired Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Extensive knowledge of building construction practices, code compliance, permitting, inspections, and plan review processes.
• Strong understanding of International Code Council (ICC) code standards and municipal development regulations.
• Proven leadership experience managing teams, budgets, contracts, projects, and operational priorities.
• Strong interpersonal, customer service, and conflict-resolution skills with the ability to navigate complex and high-profile projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to explain technical code requirements in a practical, customer-friendly manner.
• Ability to exercise sound independent judgment, make defensible code interpretations, and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Culture, Lifestyle & Benefits

Compensation

Hiring Range: $113,506.00 – $141,882.50 annually
Full Salary Range: Up to $170,259.00 annually

Placement within the range is based on qualifications, certifications, experience, internal equity, and organizational needs.

Work With Purpose

At the Town of Vail, your work directly contributes to protecting public safety and shaping one of the premier mountain resort communities in the country. You’ll collaborate with a dedicated team committed to service, innovation, professionalism, and excellence in community development.

Live the Mountain Lifestyle

Vail offers world-class outdoor recreation and year-round opportunities to enjoy mountain living—from skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking, fishing, and trail access to vibrant cultural events, restaurants, and community programming. Whether you prefer adventure, community involvement, or simply breathtaking surroundings, Vail offers an exceptional quality of life.

Benefits That Support You

The Town of Vail offers a highly competitive total rewards package for eligible employees, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employer-paid retirement contributions and deferred compensation opportunities (401(a) and 457 plans)
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Wellness and employee support programs
• Professional development and certification support
• Employee housing assistance opportunities (when available)
• A collaborative, mission-driven work environment focused on service and community

The Town of Vail is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees and applicants are treated with dignity and respect.