Commercial Plan Examiner

Grand Traverse County Michigan•Lexington, MA

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The primary function of this job is to review commercial building plans and other documentation to determine and secure compliance with Codes and Ordinances. Employees must meet the minimum requirements, conditions of employment, and be able to perform successfully all essential duties and responsibilities with or without reasonable accommodations. This position may require irregular hours and travel by the employee in their own vehicle.

Requirements

Graduation from high school or G.E.D. and completion of an approved apprentice program or equivalent training in assigned area of responsibility.
Four to six years experience related to assigned area of responsibility.
Applicants must register with Lara as a Building plan reviewer within 30 days of employment in the role under Article 10 of Act 407 of 2016 Registration for building plan reviewer in Michigan.
Requires a valid driver's license and personal vehicle insurance and must maintain eligibility to drive as per the County's Vehicle policy.
A background check may be required initially and periodically.
Proficiency in English grammar, spelling, punctuation, and simple mathematical functions such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, ratios, etc.
Basic knowledge (or able to develop basic knowledge in trades) such as building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical, with an in-depth knowledge in at least one trade
Knowledge of local and state laws, rules, and regulations relating to code inspection, as well as the legal procedures related to the enforcement of the codes in assigned areas of responsibility
Knowledge of the legal procedures as related to building code enforcement
Knowledge of appropriate construction, fire or building codes, hazards, methods and techniques
Knowledge of County permit application processes and practices
Knowledge of County zoning regulations
Knowledge and ability to use a personal computer to prepare reports, maintain records, search for and compile data
Advanced skill in performing on-site inspections
Skill in reviewing and analyzing blueprints and/or other technical documents
Skill in identifying and recommending soil erosion and sedimentation controls
Interpersonal skills necessary to develop and maintain effective and appropriate working relationships with customers, co-workers, and representatives of other agencies
Skill in operation of modern office equipment such as personal computer, facsimile, copiers, scanners and telephones
Physical ability to perform the job responsibilities such as walking over terrain and digging, as required by job assignment
Ability to work independently
Ability to read and interpret diagrams, blueprints, plans and specifications; to apply the applicable code to such plans and recognize deviations from the code and to relate them to the construction process
Ability to think analytically and apply sound judgment, solve problems, make effective decisions, and act with integrity
Ability to use sound judgment to detect unusual, harmful, or emergency situations and act accordingly
Ability to comprehend, process and apply both verbal and written skills appropriate to the job
Ability to apply and tactfully enforce complex rules, regulations, policies, and procedures
Ability to consistently demonstrate sound ethics and judgment

Responsibilities

Enforces State and County codes, laws, and ordinances related to residential, commercial, and/or industrial buildings in assigned areas of responsibility.
Reviews sealed drawings, blueprints, designs, plans and a variety of construction documents to ensure code compliance related to assigned area of responsibility.
Approves and issues permits.
Meets with architects and engineers during the design development phase of building projects to review proposed construction for compliance with code requirements.
Prepares project status reports for use by other internal staff, identifying project scope, construction type, areas, occupant loads, and any special features.
Assists architects, engineers and contractors with information regarding code-related matters.
Assists citizens with questions related to general building construction laws and regulations.
Participates in/on a variety of meetings, workshops, training sessions, and/or other related groups in order to receive and convey information.
Conducts research on construction projects to determine compliance with applicable code requirements.
Performs construction site visits and final inspections to ensure compliance with specified plans and codes.
Responds to citizens' complaints and/or inquiries from interested parties regarding potential code violations.

Benefits

Medical: High-deductible plan through Priority Health with a contribution to an employee Health Savings Account up to $2,000 annually.
Vision: No cost plan for employees, with an enhanced plan through EyeMed available.
Dental: No cost or premium for diagnostic and cleaning services through Delta Dental.
Wellness programs and incentives.
Employee Recognition awards.
Tuition Reimbursement up to $5,250 annually.
Generous amount of vacation days.
12 paid holidays plus additional floating holidays.
Personal Leave: Up to 72 hours annually, with unused leave paid out up to 40 hours.
Parental Leave: Up to 6 months.
Retirement: Defined contribution through MERS with a generous match that fully vests after 6 years.
457(b) Retirement Plans: Optional deferred compensation and Roth plans with matching contributions.
Life Insurance: Provided automatically for benefitted employees.
Short Term Disability: Pays two-thirds of salary for up to 182 days through Mutual of Omaha.
Long Term Disability: Pays 60 percent of salary for up to 24 months through Mutual of Omaha.