PLANS EXAMINER

JOB SUMMARY

The Plans Examiner reviews, examines, and analyzes residential, commercial, and multi-family building plans and specifications for compliance with the City of Douglasville Building Code, zoning ordinances, and other applicable codes. This position provides direct support to the Building Official and Permit Manager in ensuring efficient plan review and permitting services.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS 

• Conducts preliminary and detailed reviews of plans and applications for commercial, multi-family, and residential projects.
• Applies established pre-screening procedures to ensure completeness of submissions and rejects incomplete applications.
• Meets and communicates with contractors, builders, architects, engineers, and property owners to explain and interpret building codes, zoning requirements, and regulations related to construction plans.
• Advises applicants on necessary plan modifications to achieve compliance.
• Provides direct support and assistance to the Building Official and Permit Manager to ensure administrative and technical tasks are completed accurately and efficiently.
• Routes, directs, and manages the flow of plans to appropriate reviewers and ensures timely handling of expedited submittals.
• Delivers exceptional customer service by assisting the public with access to maps, plats, files, and records in a professional manner.
• Performs technical and administrative tasks, including basic math calculations, building footage computations, and plan/specification checks.
• Reviews applications and planning documents for accuracy and completeness of legal data entries.
• Performs other duties as assigned to support departmental goals.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS 

High school diploma or equivalent required. Associate degree or higher in construction management, engineering, architecture, or a related field preferred. Minimum of three (3) years of experience as a plans examiner, plan reviewer, or in a closely related role in local government or the construction industry.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

• Thorough knowledge of building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and zoning codes, with working knowledge of other City codes, ordinances, and safety regulations affecting building construction.
• Familiarity with state laws applicable to building inspections and construction.
• Strong ability to read, interpret, and analyze construction plans, blueprints, and specifications.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills for public interactions and technical explanations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to identify issues and recommend solutions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, contractors, and the public.

CERTIFICATION, LICENSE AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS 

Must possess or obtain a Plans Examiner Certification in one or more areas (building, plumbing, mechanical, or electrical).

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work requires standing, walking, sitting, lifting up to 40 pounds, carrying, pulling, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, handling, speaking, hearing, and seeing.

WORK ENVIRONMENT        

The incumbent works in a dynamic environment that requires sensitivity to change and responsiveness to changing goals, priorities, and needs.