SENIOR PLANS EXAMINER
About The Position
The Senior Plans Examiner performs advanced-level plan review and serves as an authority on building code interpretation, compliance, and enforcement within the authority assigned by the County. The role reviews construction projects for compliance with applicable building codes, ordinances, and state laws while supporting safe, efficient development. The position conducts complex reviews of residential, commercial, and industrial projects; evaluates plans and supporting technical documents; coordinates with applicants and other agencies; and issues approvals, denials, or correction notices within delegated authority. It also provides advanced code interpretation, evaluates requests for alternative materials and methods, supports regulatory compliance, and provides technical guidance to stakeholders. Administrative work includes assisting with budgets, recommending code and policy updates, preparing reports and presentations, and mentoring staff as assigned. Work is performed primarily in an office, with occasional construction-site visits and travel within the County. The role involves extended computer use and review of detailed plans, as well as possible exposure to uneven surfaces, weather, noise, dust, active construction, and challenging or high-pressure interactions.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- At least five years of progressively responsible experience in plan review, building inspection, or construction management, including experience reviewing complex construction plans.
- International Code Council (ICC) Building Plans Examiner certification required at appointment.
- Valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record for assigned County driving duties.
- Maintain required certifications and complete continuing education to remain current with adopted codes, local amendments, and professional standards.
- Extensive knowledge of adopted building codes (IBC, IRC, IECC, IFC, NEC, etc.) and applicable local amendments within assigned review responsibilities.
- Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and engineering principles.
- Ability to interpret complex plans, specifications, and technical documents.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
- Ability to exercise independent judgment and make code determinations within delegated authority.
- Proficiency with permitting and plan review software systems.
- Ability to manage competing review priorities, meet established deadlines, maintain accurate records, and communicate effectively in difficult or disputed situations.
- Ability to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Nice To Haves
- Seven or more years of directly related experience is preferred.
- Additional plans examiner certifications in relevant disciplines are preferred.
Responsibilities
- Perform complex plan reviews of residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects for compliance with applicable adopted codes.
- Review architectural and engineering plans, specifications, calculations, and supporting documents.
- Coordinate with applicants, design professionals, and other agencies to resolve code issues.
- Approve or deny plans within delegated authority and issue correction notices.
- Document code deficiencies and the basis for review decisions; review resubmittals to verify corrections.
- Interpret and apply adopted building codes and related regulations within delegated authority, referring matters beyond that authority to the designated Building Official or appropriate decision maker.
- Make and document determinations on code-related disputes and interpretations.
- Evaluate requests for alternative materials, methods, and code modifications, making determinations or recommendations within delegated authority.
- Ensure compliance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations within assigned plan review responsibilities.
- Coordinate with fire districts, Public Works, Planning, and other agencies.
- Maintain records and documentation in accordance with legal requirements.
- Provide technical guidance to contractors, developers, architects, engineers, and the public.
- Represent the County in meetings, hearings, and public forums.
- Respond to complex inquiries, complaints, and appeals; explain code requirements and correction notices clearly without assuming responsibility for project design.
- Assist with budget preparation and monitoring for Building Department activities.
- Recommend code updates, ordinance revisions, and policy changes.
- Prepare reports, correspondence, and presentations for leadership and governing bodies.
- Provide technical mentoring and guidance to plan review and inspection staff as assigned.
- Perform other duties reasonably related to the position as assigned.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
