What are the responsibilities and job description for the Residential Plans Examiner (Building Codes) position at Clackamas County?
CLACKAMAS COUNTY
Clackamas County employees work to serve the public and enrich our community. Clackamas County is committed to building a community where people thrive, have a sense of safety, connection, and belonging, so that everyone is honored and celebrated for the richness in diversity they bring. We encourage applicants of diverse backgrounds and lived experience to apply.
Clackamas County is in a prime location in the Portland, Oregon metropolitan area and is recognized nationally as one of the most livable areas in the United States. Located on the southern edge of the City of Portland and extending to the top of Mt. Hood, Clackamas County is part of a thriving region in the Northwest. It has a population of about 420,000 residents.
SPIRIT: Our Core Values
Explore Clackamas County
Recreation, Arts & Heritage
CLOSE DATE
This position will remain open until filled. The first application review will be on Monday, September 21, 2026. Afterwards, applications will be reviewed on a weekly basis. We reserve the right to close this recruitment at any time on or after that date.
Compensation
Annual Pay Range: $82,198.15 - $103,690.26
Hourly Pay Range: $39.518339 - $49.851087
Salary offers will be made within the posted pay range and will be based on candidate's experience (paid or unpaid) that is directly relevant to the position.
Job Details And Qualifications
As a Residential Plans Examiner in the Building Codes Division, your main focus will be reviewing 1 and 2 family dwelling building plans and plans for related accessory structures for compliance with the State of Oregon Residential Specialty Code, including residential structural, mechanical, and life safety codes. If selected for this position, you will also have an opportunity to review other types of plans and specifications related to residential construction projects. Another component of this position is writing plan review letters and other correspondence related to necessary Code related corrections. In this role, it will be critical to demonstrate excellent communication skills and a strong collaborative approach, as you will be expected to interact with the public while providing codes and permits related information as well as cooperate with fire prevention officials and others on various projects during plan reviews and inspections.
We are committed to being an exemplary team with best practices in Building Codes Administration, working together towards the common goal of achieving overall success of our organization. It is critical that every member of our team recognizes the vital role we play in our community, as well as understands the value a community places on safe buildings and structures, and how our Building Codes team satisfies this demand. To that end, we are searching for an individual, who is motivated to be a positive and collaborative contributor, demonstrating strong interpersonal, communication and organizational skills that will allow us to improve, develop and enhance our operations.
Required Minimum Qualifications/ Transferrable Skills:*
Learn More About Benefits
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
The mission of the Department of Transportation and Development (DTD) is to assist residents and businesses in creating vibrant, sustainable communities through innovative and responsive public service.
DTD is responsible for a broad range of county services involving land use planning and permitting, building permits, county code enforcement, solid waste and recycling, road construction and maintenance, surveying, plat approvals, public land corner restoration, economic development, libraries, County parks, and dog services.
Learn more about the divisions in DTD
APPLICATION PROCESS
Clackamas County only accepts online applications.
Help with the Application
If you have any questions or issues you may contact the Department of Human Resources by calling 503-655-8459 or emails us at jobs@clackamas.us . Our office hours are Monday - Thursday 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time (closed on Fridays).
How To Claim Veteran's Preference
Requesting Veterans' Preference
Learn more about Oregon's Veterans' Preference
VISA SPONSORSHIP
Clackamas County does not offer visa sponsorships. Once a job applicant has accepted a position, they will be required to complete an I-9 and confirm authorization to work in the United States prior to their first day .
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNIT Y
Clackamas County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.
If you wish to identify yourself as a qualified person with a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act and would like to request an accommodation, please address the request to the Department of Human Resources prior to the recruitment close date. You may request an accommodation during the online application process.
RECRUITMENT CONTACT
Victoria Vysotskiy, Recruiter
Email: VVysotskiy@clackamas.us
Clackamas County employees work to serve the public and enrich our community. Clackamas County is committed to building a community where people thrive, have a sense of safety, connection, and belonging, so that everyone is honored and celebrated for the richness in diversity they bring. We encourage applicants of diverse backgrounds and lived experience to apply.
Clackamas County is in a prime location in the Portland, Oregon metropolitan area and is recognized nationally as one of the most livable areas in the United States. Located on the southern edge of the City of Portland and extending to the top of Mt. Hood, Clackamas County is part of a thriving region in the Northwest. It has a population of about 420,000 residents.
SPIRIT: Our Core Values
Explore Clackamas County
Recreation, Arts & Heritage
CLOSE DATE
This position will remain open until filled. The first application review will be on Monday, September 21, 2026. Afterwards, applications will be reviewed on a weekly basis. We reserve the right to close this recruitment at any time on or after that date.
Compensation
Annual Pay Range: $82,198.15 - $103,690.26
Hourly Pay Range: $39.518339 - $49.851087
Salary offers will be made within the posted pay range and will be based on candidate's experience (paid or unpaid) that is directly relevant to the position.
Job Details And Qualifications
- Are you knowledgeable and/or experienced in reviewing one and two-family dwelling building plans and plans for related accessory structures for compliance?
- Do you enjoy taking on challenges and turning them into opportunities?
- Are you ready to join the Building Codes team that operates in a fast-paced environment by effectively managing and leading change and innovation?
- Do you have exceptional skills in building partnerships through a commitment to providing excellent customer service?
- Do you have a personal commitment to putting ethics into action by holding yourself to the highest standards of professionalism, honesty, and objectivity?
As a Residential Plans Examiner in the Building Codes Division, your main focus will be reviewing 1 and 2 family dwelling building plans and plans for related accessory structures for compliance with the State of Oregon Residential Specialty Code, including residential structural, mechanical, and life safety codes. If selected for this position, you will also have an opportunity to review other types of plans and specifications related to residential construction projects. Another component of this position is writing plan review letters and other correspondence related to necessary Code related corrections. In this role, it will be critical to demonstrate excellent communication skills and a strong collaborative approach, as you will be expected to interact with the public while providing codes and permits related information as well as cooperate with fire prevention officials and others on various projects during plan reviews and inspections.
We are committed to being an exemplary team with best practices in Building Codes Administration, working together towards the common goal of achieving overall success of our organization. It is critical that every member of our team recognizes the vital role we play in our community, as well as understands the value a community places on safe buildings and structures, and how our Building Codes team satisfies this demand. To that end, we are searching for an individual, who is motivated to be a positive and collaborative contributor, demonstrating strong interpersonal, communication and organizational skills that will allow us to improve, develop and enhance our operations.
Required Minimum Qualifications/ Transferrable Skills:*
- Certification Requirements (Note: Proof of possession of required certifications will be confirmed prior to the final offer of employment is extended to the selected candidate. Out-of-state applicants should consult the State of Oregon website at http://www.oregon.gov/BCD/pages/index.aspx regarding reciprocity requirements.):
- Oregon Inspector Certification (OIC) ~AND~ at least one of the following three certification sets:
- State of Oregon Certifications:
- Residential Plans Examiner (CAX)
- Residential Structural Inspector (CAS)
- International Code Council Certifications: (Please note: To use International Code Council (ICC) certifications you must be able to provide documentation showing the appropriate experience as outlined by the Oregon State Building Codes Division in order to convert these certifications to Oregon Certifications, or be registered to take the necessary Oregon State Building Codes Division training class in order to convert the ICC certifications, within six (6) months of hire, to Oregon Certifications.)
- ICC Residential Building Inspector (B1)
- ICC Residential Mechanical Inspector (M1)
- State of Oregon Legacy Certifications:
- State of Oregon 1 and 2 Family Plans Examiner
- State of Oregon 1 and 2 Family Structural Inspector
- State of Oregon 1 and 2 Family Mechanical Inspector
- Experience providing excellent customer service to the public as well as to other external and internal stakeholders within various levels of an organization
- Experience as a plans examiner in a building codes, public works or similar department
- Experience as a structural and mechanical inspector within a jurisdictional setting
- Completion of a recognized building inspection program, where building and mechanical code classes, inspection classes and training, and plan review were an integral part of the program
- Experience using Accela Automation or similar permitting software
- At least two (2) years of experience working in the construction industry
- Experience reviewing and marking-up plans electronically, using software such as BlueBeam, ProjectDox or similar plan review platforms
- Must pass a post-offer physical assessment; accommodation requests will be reviewed on an individual bases in compliance with State and Federal legislation.
- Driving is required for County business on a regular basis or to accomplish work. Incumbents must possess a valid driver's license, and possess and maintain an acceptable driving record throughout the course of employment.
- For Veterans qualified for Veteran’s Preference: If you believe you have skills that would transfer well to this position and/or special qualifications that relate to this position, please list those skills and/or qualifications in the open-ended question at the end of the application and explain how those skills and/or qualifications relate to this position.
- Aligns with Clackamas County Core Values of Service, Professionalism, Integrity, Respect, Individual Accountability, and Trust “SPIRIT”.
- Builds and maintains professional relationships with internal and external customers, partners, and stakeholders by honoring commitments and delivering exceptional customer service.
- Commits to teamwork and collaboration by working effectively towards a shared goal, encouraging sharing of information, productive problem solving, and putting team success first.
- Demonstrates excellent customer service by anticipating, assessing, and responding effectively to the needs of those we serve.
- Communicates professionally, demonstrating self-awareness, respect for others, and adjusting to various levels of technical skills & understanding of subject matters.
- Embraces continual learning through commitment to self-improvement and willingness to grow within the job as technology and organizational changes demand it.
- Seeks to problem solve by using critical thinking and analytical skills, identifying alternative strategies & developing a solution-focused approach to address challenges or issues.
- Displays creativity and innovation by taking initiative in improving processes, programs, services, and products through new approaches or ideas and being open to others’ ideas.
- Promotes cross-cultural effectiveness by engaging in a culture of respect, inclusiveness, and appreciation of diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and values.
- Puts ethics into action by holding themselves to a high standard of professional, honest, and objective behavior in all dealings and interactions.
- 12 hours of vacation accrued per month
- Eligible newly hired employees will have the one-time option to frontload their first year of vacation accruals! This means you have access to vacation time at time of hire.
- 8 hours of sick accrued per month
- 10 paid holidays and 1 personal day per year
Please review the classification specification which includes the typical tasks of this position by clicking on the following link: Commercial Plans Examiner .
KEY COMPETENCIES
We Are Searching For Someone Who
This position works 40 hours during a standard workweek of Monday through Friday. Specific hours of work will be discussed with the candidate selected for this position at the time an offer of employment is extended.
Please Note: This position is designated as on-site/in-person. It is expected that the selected candidate will perform duties at the specified on-site work location.
WORKING CONDITIONS
The majority of duties are completed in an office setting, using a computer and monitor to review plans and applications. Incumbents may perform residential inspections as a back up to inspection staff. These field duties require squatting, kneeling, balancing, climbing, and the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull objects. Duties also involve exposure to loud noises, moving traffic, slippery and/or uneven surfaces, working at heights on ladders and roofs, confined crawl spaces, and adverse weather conditions.
Benefits Information
Clackamas County proudly offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, including competitive wages, cost-of-living adjustments, merit increases (for eligible employees), and a robust sick and vacation plan for regular status employees.
We encourage and support employee health and wellness by offering health and wellness classes and events, and alternative care benefits, so you can customize your wellness needs to fit your lifestyle.
Employee benefits become effective the first of the month following an employee’s date of hire.
Attractive benefits package and incentives for employees in regular status positions are detailed below.
Generous Paid Time Off Package, Including
- Membership in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)/Oregon Public Service Retirement Plan (OPSRP):
- Employer paid 6% PERS retirement contribution (The county currently pays the employee’s share of the retirement contribution.)
- OPSRP members get vested after five years of contributions or when they reach age 65
- A Choice of Medical Plans that include chiropractic coverage, alternative care, vision, and prescription drug coverage
- A Choice of Dental Plans
- Employee Assistant Program (EAP)
- Longevity pay
- Other retirement Savings Options that allow for additional retirement funds savings, including an option to contribute a portion of employee earnings on a pre or post-tax basis to a 457b Deferred Compensation Plan
- A variety of additional optional benefits (see link below for additional information)
Learn More About Benefits
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
The mission of the Department of Transportation and Development (DTD) is to assist residents and businesses in creating vibrant, sustainable communities through innovative and responsive public service.
DTD is responsible for a broad range of county services involving land use planning and permitting, building permits, county code enforcement, solid waste and recycling, road construction and maintenance, surveying, plat approvals, public land corner restoration, economic development, libraries, County parks, and dog services.
Learn more about the divisions in DTD
APPLICATION PROCESS
Clackamas County only accepts online applications.
Help with the Application
If you have any questions or issues you may contact the Department of Human Resources by calling 503-655-8459 or emails us at jobs@clackamas.us . Our office hours are Monday - Thursday 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time (closed on Fridays).
How To Claim Veteran's Preference
Requesting Veterans' Preference
Learn more about Oregon's Veterans' Preference
VISA SPONSORSHIP
Clackamas County does not offer visa sponsorships. Once a job applicant has accepted a position, they will be required to complete an I-9 and confirm authorization to work in the United States prior to their first day .
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNIT Y
Clackamas County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.
If you wish to identify yourself as a qualified person with a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act and would like to request an accommodation, please address the request to the Department of Human Resources prior to the recruitment close date. You may request an accommodation during the online application process.
RECRUITMENT CONTACT
Victoria Vysotskiy, Recruiter
Email: VVysotskiy@clackamas.us
Salary : $82,198 - $103,690