PRINCIPAL PLANS EXAMINER

Position Summary

The Principal Plans Examiner performs advanced-level plan review and serves as the County’s highest authority on building code interpretation, compliance, and enforcement. This position provides leadership and oversight of building safety functions, including plan review, permitting, inspections, and code administration. The role ensures that all construction within the County complies with applicable building codes, ordinances, and state laws, while supporting safe, efficient development. This position functions as the County’s primary authority for building code enforcement and administration, carrying responsibilities equivalent to those typically assigned to a Chief Building Official.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Technical Plan Review

• Performs complex plan reviews for residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects for compliance with adopted building, fire, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, energy, and accessibility codes.
• Reviews architectural and engineering plans, specifications, calculations, and supporting documents.
• Coordinates with applicants, design professionals, and other agencies to resolve code issues.
• Provides final approval or denial of plans and issues correction notices.

Code Administration & Authority

• Serves as the County’s designated authority for interpretation and application of adopted building codes and related regulations.
• Establishes policies, procedures, and standards for consistent code enforcement.
• Makes final determinations on code-related disputes and interpretations.
• Oversees issuance of building permits and certificates of occupancy.

Program Oversight

• Directs and oversees building department operations, including plan review, permitting, and inspection services.
• Supervises, trains, and evaluates staff and/or contract inspectors and reviewers.
• Ensures timely and accurate processing of permits and inspections.
• Develops and implements process improvements to enhance efficiency and customer service.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensures compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to construction and development.
• Coordinates with fire districts, public works, planning, and other agencies.
• Maintains records and documentation in accordance with legal requirements.

Customer Service & Stakeholder Coordination

• Provides technical guidance to contractors, developers, architects, engineers, and the public.
• Represents the County in meetings, hearings, and public forums.
• Responds to complex inquiries, complaints, and appeals.

Administrative Functions

• Assists in budget preparation and monitoring for building division activities.
• Recommends code updates, ordinance revisions, and policy changes.
• Prepares reports, correspondence, and presentations for leadership and governing bodies.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in plan review, building inspection, or construction management.
• Experience in a supervisory or lead role preferred.

Licenses and Certifications

• International Code Council (ICC) certifications as a Plans Examiner (Building required; multiple disciplines preferred).
• ICC Certified Building Official (or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe) strongly preferred.
• Valid driver’s license.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Extensive knowledge of adopted building codes (IBC, IRC, IECC, IFC, NEC, etc.).
• 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 authoritative code determinations.
• Proficiency with permitting and plan review software systems.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in an office environment with occasional field visits to construction sites.
• May require travel within the County.
• May involve interactions with challenging or high-pressure situations.