Inspection Service Technician

City of La Porte, Texas•La Porte, TX

1d•$20 - $25

About The Position

The Inspection Service Technician performs technical and administrative services for the Inspection Services Division and coordinates inspection- and code-enforcement-related functions by assisting staff and the public. The role supports plan review, permit issuance, inspections, insurance maintenance, and documentation and processing related to weed, zoning, dangerous-building, and other public-nuisance violations. This position handles multiple division tasks and inspection-services issues, works with greater independence and responsibility than general administrative roles, and collaborates with other personnel. It receives direct general supervision from the Inspection Services Coordinator, Division Manager, or other professional staff.

Requirements

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

Nice To Haves

ICC Permit Technician certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Receive and record building permits, construction plans, zoning and alarm applications, industrial waste permit applications, site plans, and Planning & Zoning and Zoning Board of Adjustment submittals; review plans and applications for completeness and applicable fees.
Forward permit applications, plans, and receipts to the appropriate individuals for handling.
Record citizen concerns and inspector-identified violations in the complaint tracking log.
Create and maintain files to support efficient violation 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, assess calls and visits, and refer inquiries to the appropriate Inspection Services Division or Planning and Development Department personnel.
Receive citizen assistance reports about code-enforcement violations by telephone and in person, record them, and forward them for handling.
Enter approved permit data, verify 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 information 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, and problems related to permit issuance and zoning information.
Monitor the 24-hour inspection line.
Retrieve inspection requests from citizens and contractors twice daily, prepare inspection job tickets, and coordinate completion with inspection personnel.
Perform related duties as assigned.