Chief Plans Examiner
About The Position
This position is responsible for overseeing all plan review operations within the Building and Safety Department to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with state and local building codes for residential, commercial, and industrial projects. The Chief Plans Examiner provides technical leadership, supervises plan review staff, and coordinates with developers, architects, engineers, and other departments to uphold safety, code integrity, and customer service standards. Reporting to the Assistant Building Official, this role manages division workflows and serves as the primary authority for complex plan reviews and technical code interpretation.
Requirements
- Up to one (1) year of specialized or technical training beyond high school and five (5) years of experience in plan review, building inspection, or a related construction/design field, including at least two (2) years in a supervisory or lead capacity; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job.
- Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) Act 407 certifications for both Plan Review and Building Official.
- SESC Plan Review certification.
Responsibilities
- Oversees the plan review process and supervises Plan Review staff for residential, commercial, and industrial projects to ensure compliance with state and local codes and ordinances.
- Reviews complex and high-value project plans and specifications for structural, fire, accessibility, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing code compliance.
- Coordinates plan review workflow and communication among Planning, Engineering, Fire, and other departments to ensure efficient interdepartmental review.
- Provides technical guidance and code interpretation to plan reviewers, inspectors, and external stakeholders.
- Conducts training and mentoring for plan review and inspection staff to ensure consistency, professional development, and compliance with best practices.
- Communicates with architects, engineers, contractors, and property owners to explain code requirements and resolve discrepancies in submittments.
- Prepares and maintains plan review records, reports, and performance metrics to track accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
- Participates in the development and implementation of customer service standards, digital permitting processes, and procedural improvements.
- Serves as acting division lead on plan review matters when the Assistant Building Official is unavailable.
- Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance, including attendance at required meetings.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
High school or GED
