Building Plans Examiner
About The Position
The Building Plans Examiner, also described in the job summary as the Plan Reviewer / Permit Coordinator, performs technical and administrative duties supporting the City of Freeport’s building permitting, plan review, inspection, zoning, and development processes. The position coordinates permit applications from initial submittal through permit issuance and project completion; conducts residential and limited commercial plan reviews within the employee’s qualifications and authority; identifies code deficiencies; communicates correction requirements; maintains permitting records; and assists contractors, design professionals, property owners, developers, and the general public. Final interpretations of adopted building codes and ordinances, alternative construction methods, significant code modifications, and matters requiring Building Official approval remain under the Building Official’s authority. The role works closely with the Building Official, inspectors, Planning and Zoning staff, the Fire Marshal, Public Works, Engineering, Floodplain Administration, Health, Code Compliance, and other City departments. It reviews construction documents and permit applications, coordinates reviews and approvals, processes permits, assists with inspection scheduling, maintains project records, and provides customer service and technical and administrative support. The position primarily works in an office environment, with occasional construction-site or other location visits and possible meetings outside normal working hours. The stated schedule is 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday through Friday, subject to change at the City’s discretion; working hours may be extended when necessary.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- Valid Texas Driver’s License.
- Ability to obtain applicable ICC certification(s) within a timeframe established by the Building Official.
- Any combination of education, training, and experience providing the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities may be substituted or evaluated at the City’s discretion.
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, site plans, specifications, and technical documents.
- Ability to interpret and explain building codes and City ordinances and identify incomplete or deficient construction documents.
- Ability to prepare clear and accurate plan-review comments and communicate effectively with applicants, professionals, residents, and City employees.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines, maintain accurate electronic and physical records, exercise sound judgment within delegated authority, and provide professional customer service.
- Must pass a drug analysis test and physical exam and successfully complete a background check.
- Must be able to multitask, prioritize, problem-solve, work under time constraints, maintain confidentiality, and resolve conflicts.
- Must meet the stated physical requirements, including the ability to lift or move up to 50 pounds.
Nice To Haves
- Associate degree or higher in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering Technology, Building Construction, Public Administration, or a related field; relevant municipal permitting, construction, inspection, or plan-review experience may substitute for formal education as determined by the City.
- ICC Permit Technician, ICC Residential Plans Examiner, ICC Building Plans Examiner, ICC Residential Building Inspector, and/or ICC Commercial Building Inspector certification.
- Experience working in a municipal building or development-services department.
- Three years of progressively responsible experience in one or more of municipal building permitting, building inspections, construction, plan review, development services, code administration, or architectural or engineering support.
Responsibilities
- Review residential and commercial construction documents within assigned authority for compliance with adopted building codes, ordinances, zoning requirements, and applicable state requirements.
- Review permit applications, site plans, floor plans, foundation plans, construction details, specifications, and supporting documents for completeness.
- Identify code deficiencies and prepare written plan-review comments and correction notices; review revised submissions.
- Assist the Building Official in determining applicable code requirements, including occupancy classifications, construction types, allowable areas, egress, and accessibility.
- Coordinate specialized or third-party reviews, and verify professional seals, signatures, certifications, and supporting documents when applicable.
- Assist with zoning and development review, including setbacks, land use, parking, and other development standards.
- Receive, review, and process residential and commercial permit applications; determine whether required documentation is present to begin review.
- Coordinate applications through the City review process and track outstanding reviews, corrections, approvals, and documentation.
- Calculate or verify permit and review fees under the adopted fee schedule and issue permits after required approvals and authorization.
- Coordinate inspection requests and assist customers with inspection scheduling and permitting procedures.
- Maintain permit records in permitting software and document-management systems; track projects through final inspection and Certificate of Occupancy or closeout.
- Monitor permit expiration dates and outstanding permit requirements.
- Serve as a point of contact for contractors, design professionals, developers, property owners, and residents; explain permitting procedures, codes, documentation, inspections, and development processes.
- Conduct or participate in assigned pre-development and pre-construction meetings and coordinate with City departments and outside agencies to resolve permitting issues.
- Maintain permit, plan-review, inspection, and development records; prepare reports on permit activity, review turnaround, construction valuation, inspection activity, and other performance measures.
- Assist with Public Information Act requests involving building and development records.
- Assist in maintaining permit applications, checklists, procedures, handouts, forms, software, workflows, and electronic records.
- Provide technical and administrative support to the Director/Building Official and inspection staff.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
