Inspection Service Technician

City of La Porte, Texas•La Porte, TX

About The Position

The Inspection Service Technician performs technical and administrative services for the Inspection Services Division, coordinating inspection and code-enforcement functions and assisting staff and the public. The role handles multiple division tasks with greater independence and responsibility than general administrative positions, while working cooperatively with other personnel. Responsibilities include processing permits and applications, reviewing submissions for completeness and fees, maintaining permit and complaint records, supporting basic plan review and permit issuance, providing technical information to the public, coordinating inspection requests, and assisting with reports and code-enforcement documentation. The position also maintains license files and helps resolve issues related to permits and zoning information. The position receives direct general supervision from the Inspection Services Coordinator, Division Manager, or other professional staff. The City of La Porte is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Qualified Individuals.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Three years of increasingly responsible administrative and/or technical experience, including at least one year in a high-volume public service role.
Valid Texas Driver's License.
Knowledge of City codes, including zoning regulations; English usage, grammar, spelling, and punctuation; current office methods, procedures, equipment, and business letter writing; and the assigned department’s organization, procedures, and operating details.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing; work cooperatively with departments, City officials, and outside agencies; interpret and apply policies and rules; operate a personal computer, calculator, fax machine, and copier; and type at a speed adequate for job performance.
Ability to perform tasks with minimal supervision, organize work and meet deadlines, maintain complex and extensive records and prepare reports, analyze situations and select effective courses of action, and understand and carry out oral and written directions.

Nice To Haves

ICC Permit Technician certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Receive, record, preview, and route building permits, construction plans, zoning permits, alarm applications, industrial waste permit applications, site plans, and Planning & Zoning and Zoning Board of Adjustment submittals.
Receive and record citizen concerns and field-derived violations, and maintain files to support efficient abatement and processing through the court system or Building and Standards Commissions.
Perform basic plan review for roofing, foundation repair, and zoning permits.
Use computer programs and zoning, sector, aerial, and Harris County Appraisal District maps as needed.
Review, approve, and issue plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits.
Provide the public with technical information about basic zoning, inspections, and ordinance questions; serve as a primary public contact and route inquiries appropriately.
Receive citizen assistance reports about code-enforcement violations, record them, and forward them for handling.
Enter approved permit data, ensure valid insurance coverage, and notify customers when permits are ready for issuance.
Assist with monthly, quarterly, and annual construction, permit-activity, and code-enforcement reports; research, compile, and analyze data for special projects and reports.
Assist with code-enforcement documentation for mowing lists, bid job proposals, and dangerous buildings.
Recommend organizational or procedural changes affecting administrative and technical activities.
Maintain or initiate annual license files for swimming pools, salvage yards, wreckers, and mobile home parks.
Assist in resolving complaints, disputes, or problems related to permit issuance and zoning information.
Monitor the 24-hour inspection line, retrieve requested inspections from citizens and contractors twice daily, write inspection job tickets, and coordinate completion with inspection personnel.
Perform related duties as assigned.