Building Plans Examiner

The Corporation of the Municipality of Grey Highla•Markdale, ON

1d•CA$72,092 - CA$84,338•Onsite

About The Position

The Municipality of Grey Highlands is seeking a Building Plans Examiner to conduct technical reviews of building permit applications, construction drawings, specifications, and supporting documentation. This role ensures compliance with the Ontario Building Code, Building Code Act, municipal by-laws, and applicable laws. The Building Plan Examiner acts as the primary technical resource during the permit review process, collaborating with applicants, designers, contractors, Building Officials, and internal departments to facilitate compliant permit applications. This position supports efficient permit processing, allowing Building Officials to focus on inspections and enforcement.

Requirements

A Post Secondary Diploma or Degree in Architectural Technology, Building Science, Civil Engineering Technology, Construction Engineering Technology, Architecture or related field with an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Minimum three (3) years experience in one or more of; Building Plan Examination, Architectural Design, Building Design, Construction, Municipal Building Services, Building Code Consulting.
Must possess Ontario Building Code Qualifications including General Legal/Process, House, and Small Buildings.
Demonstrated knowledge of the Ontario Building Code, Building Code Act, Planning Act, municipal zoning by-laws, applicable legislation, regulations, and approval processes related to building permit review and construction.
Strong understanding of building construction methods, construction drawings and specifications, structural systems, energy efficiency and accessibility requirements.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and electronic permitting and records management software.
Valid Ontario Class G Driver's Licence.
Excellent customer service, communication, analytical, problem-solving, organizational, time management, and technical writing skills, with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
Demonstrated ability to interpret complex construction drawings and technical information, analyze issues, exercise sound judgment, and develop practical solutions.
Proven ability to manage competing priorities, work effectively both independently and collaboratively, establish positive working relationships, and communicate technical requirements clearly and professionally to a variety of audiences.
Demonstrated professionalism, accountability, integrity, and commitment to continuous learning, with the ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality when dealing with sensitive information.
Commitment to delivering high-quality customer service and technical excellence while fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and effective communication in support of departmental and municipal objectives.

Nice To Haves

Municipal experience is considered an asset.
Additional Building Code Qualifications are considered an asset, including but not limited to Large Buildings, Plumbing All Buildings, Building Services, and Complex Buildings.

Responsibilities

Conduct technical reviews of residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, agricultural, and accessory building permit applications.
Review architectural, structural, plumbing, mechanical, accessibility, energy efficiency, and life safety requirements.
Ensure applications comply with the Ontario Building Code, Building Code Act, Applicable Laws, Municipal Zoning By-law, Site Plan Agreements, Conservation Authority requirements, municipal by-laws, and other applicable legislation.
Identify deficiencies and provide detailed review comments.
Review revised drawings and submissions.
Recommend permit approval upon satisfaction of all requirements.
Serve as the department's primary technical resource during permit review by interpreting Building Code requirements, reviewing complex construction drawings, assisting designers and applicants with code compliance, identifying code deficiencies, and researching Building Code interpretations.
Remain current with legislative amendments and industry best practices.
Coordinate the technical review of permit applications.
Liaise with Planning, Public Works, Fire Department, Conservation Authorities, Utilities, and External review agencies.
Ensure required approvals are obtained prior to permit issuance.
Provide exceptional customer service by assisting applicants, meeting with designers/builders/contractors, explaining Ontario Building Code requirements, responding to technical inquiries, and resolving deficiencies collaboratively.
Support Building Officials by ensuring technical completeness of permit applications before inspections, preparing technical reports, assisting with Building Code research, maintaining permit review records, and supporting departmental statistics and reporting.
Support the implementation of electronic permitting systems.
Recommend improvements to permit review processes.
Develop standard review checklists.
Improve permit turnaround times.
Assist with departmental policies and procedures.
Participate in professional development.
Perform other related duties as assigned to support the objectives of the Building Department and Municipality.
Develop and maintain good working relationships with Council, staff, and the public.
Comply with all office procedures.
Attend meetings as required.
Participate in the resolution of delivery service issues.
Communicate ideas, suggestions, and procedural changes.
Assist during staff shortages and/or emergency situations.
Respond to public inquiries in a timely manner.
Work safely within the law and safe work practices/procedures.
Immediately report unsafe acts, conditions, or contraventions of the OHSA to a supervisor, the JHSC, or a Health & Safety representative.
Maintain a clean, orderly work area and avoid any unsafe or disruptive behavior.
Complete all assigned health and safety training and take health and safety seriously.