The City of Santa Ana is looking for individuals who are results-oriented, possess great attitude, demonstrate creativity and innovation, work efficiently, show a record of success and have a passion for public service. Having highly talented employees provides the best service to our community.
Under direct supervision, provides information at a public counter in the Planning and Building Agency concerning building procedures, code and permit requirements; reviews and issues construction permits.
Advises and assists contractors, owners/builders, architects, and the general public with information concerning building permit requirements and procedures. Assists with the enforcement of administrative provisions of the California Building Code and various federal, state and municipal codes. Coordinates approval of plans with other city departments and regulatory agencies. Verifies that plan submittals are complete and in conformance with submission standards; with sufficient on-the-job training and experience, may evaluate plans for routine residential projects such as patios and room additions. Calculates permit fees and issues permits. Effectively utilizes current standard office software applications such as Microsoft Office Outlook, Word, Access and Excel. Uses a computer to enter and retrieve information regarding permits; maintains logs, gathers statistics; compiles routine reports; performs record searches; routes files and prepares plans for microfilming; composes correspondence and notices. Observes, identifies and helps resolve problems related to counter operations in cooperation with other counter staff, to promote total quality service. Lifts and carries large sets of construction plans, files and file boxes weighing up to 20 lbs. from one place to another. Assists other staff members as needed. Answers telephone inquiries regarding permit process/fees; notifies applicants when plans are ready. Provides guidance and training to clerical and part time support staff. Performs other functions as assigned.
One year of experience with a municipal building department's permit processing function or similar experience at a public counter with an emphasis on customer service, or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the following knowledge, skills and abilities.
DESIRABLE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of: building construction methods, practices and materials; general building codes and activities; California Building Code and other applicable federal, state and municipal codes and regulations; principles of basic math and business English, including grammar and spelling; basic computer keyboard functions, data entry and record keeping techniques; basic knowledge of standard office software applications such as Microsoft Word, Access, Excel and Outlook; modern office practices and procedures.
Skill in: the use of a personal computer and standard office software applications such as Microsoft Word, Access, Excel and Outlook; the operation of calculators and other modern office equipment.
Ability to: read and interpret simple construction plans; verify that plan submittals are complete and in conformance with required submission standards; provide customers with accurate information on permitting procedures; compute fees; enter, track and retrieve information using a computer; prepare and maintain records and files; understand and carry out oral and written instructions; communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with developers, architects, contractors, property owners, other regulatory agencies, the general public and fellow employees; use tact and diplomacy when dealing with customers from diverse cultural backgrounds, often under pressure of heavy customer demand, and lift and carry objects weighing up to 20 lbs.
SPECIAL MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Possession of an International Code Council (ICC) Permit Technician Certification is highly desirable but not required.
Bilingual ability in English and Spanish is highly desirable but not required.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Incumbent is required to work at a public counter and must be able to stand for extended periods of time, up to and including eight (8) hours per day; walk, stoop, kneel, squat, bend and reach above his/her head; must be able to lift and carry objects weighing up to 20 lbs. without assistance
All applicants are required to complete and submit a City application form online and answer the supplemental questionnaire. Resumes or faxed copies will not be accepted in lieu of the City online application.Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. To apply, click on the "Apply" link located at the top of this page. New users must create an account first. Click on this link for instructions on how to set up your account and apply for the first time: Online Employment Application Guide.
Applications will be reviewed by the Human Resources Department. Those applicants possessing the most pertinent qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process, which will include:
Written Examination (Tentatively scheduled for July 8 -12, 2026): (Weight of 50%) will evaluate applicants' knowledge of principles and methods for the role of Permit Services Processor. The exam will be conducted through the online platform eSkill. Oral Interview Examination (Tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, July 28, 2026): (Weight of 50%) will evaluate the candidates' experience, training, education, and abilities in relation to those factors which are essential for successful performance on the job. Candidates need a minimum passing score in order to be placed on the eligible list.
The City of Santa Ana is an equal opportunity employer. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact us regarding providing reasonable accommodation.
Salary : $58,872 - $78,924
