Download class code - BC Public Service

POSITION DESCRIPTION
Ministry of Housing and Social Development
POSITION TITLE:
Codes Administrator
DIVISION:
(e.g., Division, Region, Department)
Office of Housing and Construction Standards
UNIT:
(e.g., Branch, Area, District)
Building and Safety Policy Branch
LOCATION:
SUPERVISOR’S TITLE:
Manager
POSITION
NUMBER
PHONE NUMBER:
SUPERVISOR’S CLASSIFICATION:
Business Leadership
POSITION
NUMBER(S):
FOR AGENCY USE ONLY
NOC CODE:
APPROVED CLASSIFICATION:
CLASS CODE:
ENTERED BY:
PHONE NUMBER:
97616
Victoria
75897
PROGRAM
The Building and Safety Policy Branch is responsible for developing and implementing a modern regulatory framework for
safety systems and the design, construction and occupancy of buildings. The branch works to balance safety, economic
and social concerns in regulations for all British Columbians.
Core activities of the branch include:
Building sphere (including fire and plumbing)

Governance of aspects of the regulatory system framework.

Stewardship of the development and application of the codes, including the Building Code, the Plumbing Code,
the Fire Code (the Codes) and associated regulations.
Safety sphere

Governance of the Safety Standards Act and aspects of the safety system.

Policy and regulatory oversight of electric, gas, elevating devices, boilers/pressure vessels, and refrigeration
products and systems.

Stewardship of the development and application of safety legislation, regulations and codes.

Administration of the provincial relationship with the Homeowner Protection Office (HPO) and the BC Safety
Authority (BCSA).
In carrying out these activities, the branch:

Develops and administers government policy and legislation.

Communicates policies/regulations to industry stakeholders.

Initiates, facilitates and provides support towards a new governance framework for the building and safety
regulatory system, including system analysis, logistical support, and collaboration with industry partners.
Building sphere

Serves as a portal for and custodian of the Codes’ protocols and policies.
 Acts as Secretariat to the Building Code Appeal Board, the Province's building code dispute resolution board.
Safety sphere

Manages administrative agreements with delegated authorities under the Safety Standards Act (BCSA and 10
local governments).

Manages Shareholder’s Letter of Expectations with HPO.
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PURPOSE OF POSITION
This position is developmental in nature and scope. The position provides technical research and/or technical
analysis/evaluation related to the governance framework of building regulatory and safety systems, and the technical
requirements of the B.C. Building, Fire and Safety Codes and regulations. .
NATURE OF WORK AND POSITION LINKS
The branch operates in a matrix environment whereby the position may be assigned work and receive direction from
Managers, Senior Codes Administrators, or the Executive Director. The matrix environment facilitates the assignment of
resources to projects or strategies as needed and promotes the coordination of activities on a branch-wide basis.
The position is involved in the national codes development process and safety standards development through technical
analysis and evaluation of regulatory initiatives, including consideration of alternative strategies, implications and
selection of alternatives for recommendations.
The position participates in developing changes to the harmonized Model National Codes which are the base documents
for the BC Building Code and Fire Code (there are currently more than 13,500 technical requirements) and supports
adherence to a risk management model for code development. The position also has involvement in developing related
building regulations and documents (e.g. Water Conservation Plumbing Regulation; technical bulletins).
Key clients of the branch are code users, institutions and businesses using building, plumbing and fire codes, building
and safety officials, manufacturers, suppliers and users of construction services and materials, designers and architects,
other ministries, participants in the regulatory system, major building industry associations, local governments, lawyers,
insurers, and building owners. The general public is a benefactor of safe, healthy accessible buildings and safety
systems.
Position links:

Management – provides status briefings and advisory services on technically complex issues and coordinates
corporate initiatives or responses, as required.

Other Ministry Counterparts – exchanges information and identifies opportunities to work in more integrated ways;
obtains input for the development of technical codes and standards.

Other provinces/territories - collaborates on the development of technical codes and standards.

Local governments, building industry, safety associations, professional associations - liaison with local
government/industry representatives to obtain input to code proposals through the establishment of committees,
working groups, etc.

British Columbia Safety Authority (BCSA) - provides information regarding the administration of the Province’s
technical safety framework delegated to the BCSA and 10 local governments (for electrical and/or gas safety).

Owners, contractors, architects and other code users - provides technical information and explanation including
interpretation of provincial and national safety codes.

National Research Council (Canadian Codes Centre) - participates on working groups developing/amending codes,
standards, and communication materials.
SPECIFIC ACCOUNTABILITIES / DELIVERABLES
Entry level:
 Conducts research projects associated with proposed branch initiatives. Conducts in-depth searches for information
and data and investigates new sources of information.
 Retrieves information and manipulates/compiles data into a report for senior staff. Verifies data and other evidence
presented in reports to ensure that all data are accurate and properly documented and that conclusions and
recommendations are sound.
 Participates in the development of data instruments, surveys, and other research instruments for use in research and
program evaluation. Provides input to evaluation plans, strategies, research methodologies, sampling techniques,
questionnaire design, data analysis, and performance indicators for programs and projects.
 Conducts critical reviews of current related literature for the Ministry; conduct studies of selected cross-section of
journals and books.
 Prepares graphic and tabular representations of quantitative data and analysis. Maintains and updates databases
and information sources.
 Provides technical assistance and interpretations for code users.
 Provides support for various meetings, conferences, media engagements and other functions attended by senior staff
and management by researching and preparing relevant technical background material.
 Conducts cost/benefit analysis to determine financial impacts of the findings of research projects.
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Intermediate level (in addition to entry level accountabilities):
 Conducts research, analysis and development of standards and codes related to building, the building industry and
the building and safety regulatory systems
 Monitors and reviews provincial and federal policies, regulations, standards, processes, etc. that impact on branch
programs and services. Provides background information, data analysis, evaluation information and options to
management in the development of regulations, standards and codes. Researches code issues, both nationally and
internationally.
 Uses statistical methods and qualitative assessment methodologies to analyze and compare current data, trends and
best practices; supplies statistical and analytical information in appropriate formats (graphic, narrative form, flow
charts etc). Ensures the accuracy and currency of information and the integration of information from various
sources.
 Manages projects including developing project proposals, drafting business cases and cost benefit analyses, defining
deliverables, recommending procurement of contracted resources, developing project plans, and implementing
monitoring measures. Provides direction to other branch staff in a team lead situation including assigning work and
monitoring performance.
 Manages contracted resources as required and certifies satisfactory contract performance.
 Participates in strategic planning and program/service evaluation initiatives; identifies program/service evaluation
tools (e.g. surveys, interview guides); recommends evaluation plans, strategies and performance indicators for
programs/services.
 Provides evaluation advice on research methods, sampling techniques, questionnaire design, data analysis and other
evaluation processes.
 Researches and prepares briefing notes, background material, reports, and correspondence on a variety of issues;
and makes presentations to stakeholders on current/emerging issues. Researches and drafts responses to
ministerial and other correspondence (specifically technical content of letters).
Full working level (in addition to entry and intermediate level accountabilities):
 Plans and conducts research, analysis and development of standards, processes and regulations related to building,
plumbing, and fire codes standards, the building industry and the building and safety regulatory systems. Assesses
competing and/or conflicting priorities. Identifies and analyses options and provides interpretations, conclusions and
recommendations to senior management.
 Researches, analyses and develops options, strategies and approaches which address technical issues and
service/program delivery models and methods using techniques such as cost benefit analysis, statistical and
economic impact analyses.
 Develops and drafts technical codes, regulations and guidelines. Assesses and compares the likely impact of
alternative proposals and associated risks, stakeholder response, liability and safety implications. Outlines
advantages/strengths and disadvantages/weaknesses of each to ensure that executive and senior management
make informed decisions.

Manages projects including: developing terms of reference to define the scope of projects; drafting project plans to
identify timelines, deliverables, methodologies and resource requirements; identifying obstacles and developing
strategies to overcome them; liaison with stakeholders, colleagues and contacts as required to complete project
elements; evaluating project processes and progress, and developing recommendations; and delivering completed
projects. Provides direction to other branch staff in a team lead situation including assigning work and monitoring
performance.

Leads/participates in consultative process with stakeholders (including a variety of focus groups on technical building
issues) to examine and negotiate consensus on issues and to obtain feedback on proposed policies and regulations.

Analyzes the implications of current and proposed Provincial and Federal government strategic plans and initiatives
and determines stakeholder impacts. Monitors and analyzes outside technical and commercial influences that may
impact ministry direction or requirements and undertakes in-depth research on pertinent issues.

Develops newsletters, technical bulletins and other informational material to ensure that the public, including the
construction industry, is kept fully informed on all Codes developments and safety regulatory system issues

Prepares briefing materials and decision documents. Writes briefing notes and materials, cabinet and Treasury
Board submissions. Drafts position papers and makes presentations to senior executive.

Develops RFPs; selects consultants, adapts standardized language to negotiate contracts, certifies performance.
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FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Note: financial responsibilities are integrated into the specific accountabilities/deliverables at each working level.
DIRECT SUPERVISION (i.e., responsibility for signing the employee appraisal form)
# of Regular FTE’s
Role
# of Auxiliary FTE’s
Directly supervises staff
Supervises staff through subordinate supervisors
PROJECT /TEAM LEADERSHIP OR TRAINING (Check the appropriate boxes)
Role
# of FTE’s
Supervises students or volunteers
Lead project teams
Role
# of FTE’s
Provides formal training to other staff
varies
Assigns, monitors and examines the work of staff
TOOLS / EQUIPMENT
Uses office tools and equipment such as computers, laptops, scanners, photocopiers, calculators, fax machines, and
telephones. Proficient computer skills; familiar with MS Word and PowerPoint for preparing reports, correspondence,
presentations, and other written communication materials.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Travel required within the province.
WORK EXAMPLES
Entry Level

Provides support to Senior Codes Administrator in managing provincial regulations and guidelines related to:
o Housing and Small Buildings Part 9 of BCBC
o Building Envelope and Environmental Separation Part 5 & Part 9 of BCBC
o Codes Interpretations and Appeals

Conducts research and compiles results of the administrative framework for building construction across Canada
and in specified foreign jurisdictions

Provides support and input at stakeholder meetings such as the Mid-Rise Wood Frame Construction Technical
Advisory Group
Intermediate Level

Assists Senior Codes Administrator in managing provincial regulations and guidelines related to:
o Housing and Small Buildings Part 9 of BCBC
o Building Envelope and Environmental Separation Part 5 & Part 9 of BCBC
o Codes Interpretations and Appeals

Uses research and results to compare data, ensure accuracy and communicate results in appropriate formats on
the topic of the administrative framework for building construction across Canada and in specified foreign
jurisdictions

Makes presentations to stakeholder meetings such as the Mid-Rise Wood Frame Construction Technical
Advisory Group
Full Working Level

Leads consultative processes with stakeholders relating to managing provincial regulations and guidelines

Identifies and analyzes research results on the topic of the administrative framework for building construction
across Canada and in specified foreign jurisdictions; develops options and provides recommendations

Leads and participates at stakeholder meetings such as the Mid-Rise Wood Frame Construction Technical
Advisory Group
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ORGANIZATION CHART
BUILDING AND SAFETY STANDARDS BRANCH
January 2012
Executive Director
Strategic
Program Asst
CS 9
Pn# 102195
Mgr Policy & Codes Dev.
Business
Pn# 75897
Mgr Liaison
Business
Pn# 61742
Safety Standards
Appeal Board
Registrar
AO 18
Pn# 37313
Deputy Registrar
CS 11
Pn# 92735
Mgr Policy & Codes Dev.
Business
Pn# 89018
Sr. Policy Analyst
Pol SE 27
Pn # 68860
Sr. Codes Admin
STO 27/LSO 3
Pn# 36962
Sr. Policy Analyst
Pol SE 27
Pn# 80854
Sr. Code Admin
STO 27/LSO 3
Pn# 36964
Codes Admin
STO 18-24
Pn# 97616
Codes Admin
STO 21-24
Pn#97617
Sr. Policy Analyst
POL SE 27
Pn# 73902
Sr. Policy Analyst
Pol SE 27
Pn# 88089
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Pn# 36961
Office Asst
CS 11-14
Pn# 88845
Sr. Seismic Eng
LSO4
Pn# 88843
Policy Analyst
RO 18 – 24
Pn# 75705
Sr. Policy Analyst
Pol SE 27
Pn# 91962
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SELECTION CRITERIA
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
Undergraduate degree or technical diploma and four years related experience or an equivalent combination of related
education and experience.
Experience in the building and construction industry.
Experience working effectively with a variety of internal and external stakeholders.
Experience in analyzing and evaluating technical proposals.
Experience in working with technical regulations (building, fire, safety and plumbing codes) and policies.
Experience researching policies and providing analysis.
NB. Candidates with lesser qualifications may be considered at the Entry or Intermediate Level.
KNOWLEDGE
Technical knowledge of the BC Building Code, BC Fire Code, BC Plumbing Code and BC Safety regulations e.g.,
Electrical Code.
Knowledge of the codes development system code cycle.
Knowledge of the building and safety regulatory systems in BC.
Knowledge of applied research and quantitative analysis.
Knowledge of data management, use of databases and accessing data from databases.
ABILITIES/SKILLS
Ability to prioritize and meet tight timeframes.
Ability to participate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to initiate review of existing policies, programs or
legislation and facilitate introduction of new policies, programs or legislation.
Ability to conduct analysis and evaluation processes, and persuasively outline options and possible courses of action
Ability to identify and analyze ramifications of proposed options and responses.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
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COMPETENCIES
Analytical Thinking
 Links together multiple events and actions and is able to break an issue down a problem into smaller more workable
parts.
 Anticipates obstacles and analyzes relationships while thinking ahead to next steps. Makes complex plans and
analyses.
Teamwork & Co-operation
 Works cooperatively within diverse teams and across the organization to achieve goals by participating as a “team
player”; supports team decisions; expresses positive expectations in others abilities; solicits input by genuinely
valuing the input from others and promotes team cooperation.
Building Partnerships with Stakeholders
 Building Partnerships with Stakeholders is the ability to build long-term or on-going relationships with stakeholders
(e.g. someone who shares an interest in what you are doing). This type of relationship is often quite deliberate and is
typically focused on the way the relationship is conducted. Implicit in this competency is demonstrating a respect for
and stating positive expectations of the stakeholder.
Flexibility
 Demonstrates ability and willingness to adapt to and work effectively within a variety of diverse situations, and with
diverse individuals or groups. Prioritizes actions effectively in order to respond to numerous, diverse challenges and
demands.
Conceptual Thinking
 Identifies patterns or connections between situations that are not obviously related. Identifies key issues in complex
situations by applying complex concepts such as using the knowledge of theory or different past trends to look at
current situations.
Service Orientation
 Meets the needs of clients by maintaining clear communication, taking personal responsibility for correcting problems;
makes self available to clients – especially when clients are going through a critical period; may change work
processes to ensure accessibility to information or service.
Results Orientation
 Creates personal measures of excellence and improves performance by making changes to the system or own work
methods (i.e. doing something better, fast or cheaper).
Passion
 Approaches work with a passion for: taking pride in your work in service to the public; seeing ideas and people
succeed; being a model of motivation and a positive influence for others.
Accountability
 Demonstrates accountability in work through: setting clear goals and measuring success; staying focussed on the
outcomes government is trying to achieve; taking responsibility for decisions and completing tasks; being consistently
proactive in decisions; showing the persistence and tenacity to overcome obstacles.
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