Plan Examiner (Pay Grade 21) Afscme Local 1607

New Castle County Government•New Castle, DE

About The Position

An employee in this class reviews construction, plumbing, and mechanical plans and permit applications before building and utility permits are issued. The position ensures compliance with New Castle County codes, verifies zoning use and setback requirements, checks application completeness, and confirms required outside permits have been obtained. The employee may advise applicants and construction professionals on code-compliant methods and materials, stay current with technical developments and engineered systems, and conduct field inspections when technical problems arise during construction or installation. The position works under general supervision and may involve confidential matters. Depending on departmental needs, extended hours—including early mornings, nights, and weekends—may be required. This role is the entry point in a defined career ladder, with advancement opportunities after required certifications and satisfactory performance. The ladder proceeds from Plan Examiner (Pay Grade 21) to Certified Plan Examiner (Pay Grade 23) and Senior Certified Plan Examiner (Pay Grade 25). The selection process may include evaluation of training and experience, written or computerized examinations, an oral board interview, a performance examination, or a combination of these. An eligible list is being established for vacancies that arise during the following year. The employee reviews and approves plans and applications; interprets codes; consults with applicants and construction professionals; coordinates approvals with outside agencies; processes permit-related work; maintains records and reports; and represents the County on committees and at public meetings. The role also includes customer service, code-enforcement coordination, training, and use of a computer and related equipment.

Requirements

At least one year of experience in building construction, plumbing, and/or mechanical work, and at least two years of college coursework involving drafting and interpretation of construction drawings; or an equivalent combination of directly related experience, education, or training.
Thorough knowledge of building construction and alterations, including plumbing and mechanical systems.
Thorough knowledge of techniques and principles for accurately reading and interpreting plans, specifications, and blueprints.
Good knowledge of codes and ordinances relating to construction.
Ability to perform mathematical calculations to estimate building-project valuations.
Ability to design and size mechanical systems and ventilation.
Ability to use engineering tables to verify the adequacy of proposed structural load-bearing members.
Ability to maintain current knowledge of technical developments in construction.
Ability to communicate courteously and effectively verbally and in writing.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with construction professionals and the public on technical matters.
Ability to maintain accurate records.
Possession of a valid Delaware Class D driver's license or equivalent.
Ability to pass a County background check.
Complete and maintain current status in the ICC Building Plan Examiner B3 discipline within one year of hire or promotion.
Complete and maintain current status in the ICC Mechanical Plan Examiner M3 discipline within 18 months of hire or promotion.
Complete and maintain current status in the ICC Plumbing Plan Examiner P3 discipline within 24 months of hire or promotion.
Meet the stated far-vision standard: 20/40 with both eyes together and at least one eye at 20/40 or better, with or without corrective lenses.
Ability to perform the listed office and field physical activities, including prolonged computer work, walking properties, climbing stairs and ladders, crawling in tight spaces, and standing for extended periods.

Responsibilities

Review and approve construction, plumbing, and mechanical plans and permit applications for compliance with applicable New Castle County codes.
Review technical publications and manufacturer instructions to stay current on equipment, techniques, developments, and engineered systems.
Use engineering tables to assess the adequacy of proposed structural load-bearing members.
Interpret and provide information on County codes relating to construction, plumbing, and mechanical installations.
Meet with architects, engineers, contractors, homeowners, and other stakeholders to review plans, resolve code issues, and support regulatory compliance; represent the County at community and public meetings.
Make recommendations on code-related matters, including amendments, variances, modifications, and enforcement actions.
Calculate or estimate proposed construction valuation for permit fees and process or assist with processing applications.
Coordinate with outside regulatory agencies to obtain required construction-project approvals.
Assist customers submitting applications in person or electronically with questions, permits, and related matters.
Maintain records and prepare plan-review reports.
Complete ongoing training as needed.
Review and approve lines and grades for swimming pools, garages, accessory buildings, and additions.
Represent the County on the Plumbing and Mechanical Code Technical Advisory Committee and other public bodies as assigned.
Work with County Code Enforcement to interpret codes and resolve issues involving violations and unpermitted activity.
Promote excellent public service and provide high-quality service to internal and external customers.
Operate a personal computer and related equipment and software.
Plan and conduct training for plan-review and inspection staff on equipment, installation procedures, plan-review techniques, blueprint reading, and related topics.
Conduct field inspections when technical problems arise during construction or installation.