What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant/Associate Permit Specialist position at Shasta County?
THE CURRENT VACANCY IS IN THE SHASTA COUNTY
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT
ORAL EXAM IS TENTATIVELY SCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER 2025
RESPONSES TO SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONS REQUIRED
FINAL FILING DATE: NOVEMBER 6, 2025, AT 5:00 PM
SALARY INFORMATION
Assistant Permit Specialist: $3,525 - $4,499 APPROXIMATE MONTHLY* / $20.34 - $25.96 APPROXIMATE HOURLY*
Associate Permit Specialist: $4,080 - $5,208 APPROXIMATE MONTHLY* / $23.54 - $30.05 APPROXIMATE HOURLY*
*Please refer to the appropriate Bargaining Unit Memorandum of Understanding for potential future salary increases* Please visit https://www.shastacounty.gov/personnel/page/labor-agreements-mous.
ABOUT SHASTA COUNTY
Shasta County offers all the amenities of the big city while retaining a comfortable small-town atmosphere. With its natural beauty, affordable housing, excellent educational system, abundance of recreational opportunities, and excellent quality of life, Shasta County is a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
The Department of Resource Management consists of Air Quality Management District, Building, Environmental Health, and Planning Divisions.
The Air Quality Management District works to achieve state and federal air quality standards through permitting, inspection, and long-range planning.
The Planning Division administers policies and programs as directed by the County's planning agency. It processes development-related applications and provides zoning information to the public.
The Building Division administers programs to safeguard life, health, and property of County residents through the application of uniform building standards.
The Environmental Health Division provides specific permit and inspection programs for the control of chemical and microbiological hazards affecting public health. Permitting and inspection activities involve sewage solid waste disposal, hazardous materials storage and disposal, underground tanks, food service facilities, individual wells and public drinking water systems, swimming pools, housing and institutions, medical waste management, land use, and household hazardous waste reduction.
ABOUT THE POSITION
Assistant Permit Specialist: Under close supervision, performs a variety of paraprofessional technical and customer service functions supporting the Planning, Building, Environmental Health and Air Quality divisions of the Resource Management Department; advises architects, engineers, developers, business owners, homeowners and the general public on basic regulatory code requirements, ordinances, Resource Management programs and the development permit process; assists the public in completing permit applications; processes, tracks and issues routine development permits; performs related field and office duties as required.
Associate Permit Specialist: Under general supervision, performs a variety of paraprofessional technical and customer service functions supporting the Planning, Building, Environmental Health and Air Quality divisions of the Resource Management Department; advises architects, engineers, developers, business owners, homeowners and the general public on basic regulatory code requirements, ordinances, Resource Management programs and the development permit process; assists the public in completing permit applications; processes, tracks and issues routine development permits; performs related field and office duties as required.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Assistant Permit Specialist: This is the entry-level class in the Permit Specialist Series and requires well developed organizational and customer service skills. Under close supervision, this class is characterized by: the responsibility to learn, understand and implement County development codes, policies and regulations; the role of each division in the development review and permitting process; what and how the full range of development permits are issued; what information is required for a complete permit application; how to thoroughly research parcel history; and what information to provide the public concerning the application process. If this position is within EHD, additional responsibilities in Environmental Health programs will be required. Incumbents in this class may process, track and issue over-the-counter permits and building, planning and environmental health permits that have been reviewed and cleared.
Associate Permit Specialist: This is the journey-level class in the Permit Specialist Series and requires demonstrated proficiency in all responsibility areas of the Assistant Permit Specialist. This class is characterized by the ability to interpret and clearly explain to the public the County’s zoning, building, code enforcement, environmental health and air quality permit requirements and procedures with minimal supervision; ability to respond effectively to complicated permit inquiries; process, track and issue the more complex development permits. If this position is within EHD, additional responsibilities in Environmental Health programs will be required.
IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate will have a calm demeanor and be a natural communicator with excellent verbal, written and de-escalation skills, who is comfortable interacting with and educating the general public on permit procedures/ policies. A proven track-record of providing excellent customer service is essential to this role. Must be highly organized with the ability to manage multiple competing priorities. Experience with tracking/ recording methods and tools is highly desired. This individual will have a prior relevant working history of at least one year of progressively responsible clerical work that involves customer contact. Must be comfortable operating computers and be able to operate modern office equipment. The ideal candidate will also possess a valid five (5) minute typing certificate dated within the last three (3) years verifying a net typing speed of 45 WPM. Self-tested, computer-generated typing certificates are not accepted. Shasta County offers a free typing test only for current County job openings that require a typing certificate.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Assistant Permit Specialist: Provide outstanding customer service; learn the basic zoning, building, environmental health and air quality codes and procedures to obtain the permits necessary to develop and/or build on a parcel; research permit and development history on parcels proposed for development; provide accurate and current information to contractors, engineers, developers, homeowners and the general public concerning parcel status, code requirements and the development permit process; assist the public in preparing accurate and complete permit applications; conduct preliminary review of site plans, construction plans, design drawings, calculations, and other application documents for accuracy, completeness, and conformance with applicable codes using approved checklists and guidelines; calculate permit fees and fee estimates for a variety of development and construction projects using approved formulas and guidelines; learn the workflow for all permits and route complete applications to the appropriate division(s) for review; issue over-the-counter permits and building, planning and environmental health permits that have been reviewed and cleared; develop proficiency with computerized and technical equipment and software programs used in the daily functions of the Department of Resource Management; conduct routine or follow-up field inspections for the Department of Resource Management programs as assigned; perform a full range of support functions including making copies, accepting cash, checks, and credit cards as forms of payment; recording all financial transactions and issuing receipts to customers; collating and distributing informational hand-outs and other materials; maintain, track and update department permit records, files, lists, and other information; participate in scheduled Permit Center staff meetings and discussions; perform other related duties as assigned. If position is within the EHD, under the supervision of Associate or Senior Permit Specialist in EHD, learns to perform permitting of environmental health facilities in compliance with applicable codes and regulations; processes and follows up on routine complaints, in the areas of housing, vector control, public nuisances, drinking water, sewage disposal systems and swimming pools; inspects non-conventional sewage disposal systems; collects water samples from wells for testing by laboratories; sets up and maintains file systems and records relating to environmental health programs and functions; advises the public on a variety of environmental health regulations; performs a full range of clerical and fiscal support functions.
Associate Permit Specialist: Provide outstanding customer service; understand and accurately explain the basic zoning, building, environmental health and air quality codes and procedures required to obtain permits to develop or build on a parcel; research permit and development history on parcels proposed for development; provide accurate and current information to contractors, engineers, developers, homeowners and the general public concerning parcel status, code requirements and the development permit process; assist the public in preparing accurate and complete permit applications; conduct preliminary review of site plans, construction plans, design drawings, calculations, and other application documents for accuracy, completeness, and conformance with applicable codes using approved checklists and guidelines; calculate permit fees and fee estimates for a variety of development and construction projects using approved formulas and guidelines; understand and track the workflow for all permit types and route complete applications to the appropriate division(s) for review; issue over-the-counter permits and building, planning and environmental health permits that have been reviewed and cleared; develop proficiency with computerized and technical equipment and software programs used in the daily functions of the Department of Resource Management; conduct routine or follow-up field inspections for the Department of Resource Management programs as assigned; perform a full range of support functions including: making copies, accepting cash, checks, and credit cards as forms of payment; recording all financial transactions and issuing receipts to customers; collating and distributing informational hand-outs and other materials; maintain, track and update department permit records, files, lists, and other information; participate in scheduled Permit Center staff meetings and discussions; prepare correspondence, reports, forms, maps, and other documents; under direction may provide guidance and limited training to the Assistant Permit Specialist; perform other related duties as assigned. If position is within EHD, under the supervision of the Senior Permit Specialist and/or a Registered Environmental Health Specialist, processes permit applications and issues permits for environmental health facilities in compliance with applicable codes and regulations; investigates routine complaints and conducts follow-up, writes letters summarizing findings and directives in the areas of housing, vector control, public nuisances, drinking, sewage disposal systems and swimming pools; inspects non-conventional sewage disposal systems; collects water samples from wells for testing by laboratories; sets up and maintains file systems and records relating to environmental health programs and functions; advises the public on a variety of environmental health regulations; performs a full range of clerical and fiscal support functions.
QUALIFICATIONS
Any combination of education and experience sufficient to directly demonstrate possession and application of the following:
Assistant Permit Specialist:
Knowledge of: Some knowledge of basic building codes, construction methods, zoning and land use planning principles, environmental health regulations, air quality regulations and related rules and laws as applied to the development permit process; some knowledge of basic construction drawing, blueprint reading, scaled site plan and map reading; knowledge and practice of ethical, professional conduct in a public agency and the techniques for providing high quality customer service; knowledge of office methods, procedures and techniques; manual and automated filing systems; office equipment operation; business correspondence; records management principles and practices; work-related computer applications including permitting software; English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation; bookkeeping practices as they relate to fees collection.
Ability to: Read and understand plat maps, zoning and general plan maps, Assessor’s Book Maps, FEMA Flood Panel Maps, site plans, and applications submitted for development and construction projects; learn county ordinances, codes, and regulations pertaining to development and construction projects; prioritize and respond to multiple phone calls, walk-in customers, and other requests/interruptions; work independently and as a team member; maintain flexibility in work assignments; read and interpret various materials pertaining to the responsibilities of the job; make sound, educated decisions; react calmly and professionally in stressful situations; establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, and the public; make accurate arithmetic, financial, and statistical computations; assemble and analyze information and prepare written reports and records in a clear and concise manner; use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing.
Associate Permit Specialist:
Knowledge of: Building codes, zoning ordinance, environmental health regulations, air quality regulations and related rules and laws as applied to the development permit process; interpretation of construction drawings, scaled site plans, and various maps; principles, methods and purpose of field inspections in building, planning, environmental health and air quality work; practice of ethical, professional conduct in a public agency and the techniques for providing high quality customer service; office methods, procedures and techniques; manual and automated filing systems; office equipment operation; business correspondence; records management principles and practices; work-related computer applications including permitting software; English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation; bookkeeping practices as they relate to fee collection; technical report writing practices; basic knowledge of staff supervision and quality control principles and techniques.
Ability to: Understand and interpret plat maps, zoning and general plan maps, Assessor’s Book Maps, FEMA Flood Panel Maps, site plans, and applications submitted for development and construction projects; understand and interpret county ordinances, codes, and regulations pertaining to development and construction projects; prioritize and respond to multiple phone calls, walk-in customers, and other requests/interruptions; work independently and as a team member; maintain flexibility in work assignments; read and interpret various materials pertaining to the responsibilities of the job; make sound, educated decisions; react calmly and professionally in stressful situations; establish and maintain effective working relationship with supervisors, co-workers, and the public; make accurate arithmetic, financial, and statistical computations; assemble and analyze information and prepare written reports and records in a clear and concise manner; use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing;
MINUMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Assistant Permit Specialist:
Associate Permit Specialist:
Assistant Permit Specialist/Associate Permit Specialist:
SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONS
Responses to the following must be submitted with a completed application.
- Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent? If “Yes,” please list the issuing institution and certification achieved. If “No,” please type N/A.
- Do you have at least one (1) year of public contact/hospitality industry work experience, preferably providing support or technical assistance in a planning, building or environmental health firm or public agency? Yes/No If “Yes,” please provide details including, but not limited to, employers, dates of employment, and job duties. If “No,” type N/A.
- Do you have any college-level course work or certificate(s) in land use planning, construction trades, drafting, biology, chemistry, environmental science, building inspection or related field? Yes/No If “Yes,” please list the courses and number of college units per class and/or the type of certificate and issuing institution. If “No,” type N/A.
- Do you have at least two (2) years of experience equivalent to the Assistant Permit Specialist in Shasta County? Yes/No If “Yes,” please provide details including, but not limited to, employers, dates of employment, and job duties. If “No,” type N/A.
- Do you possess a valid five (5) minute typing certificate dated within the last three (3) years verifying a net typing speed of 45 WPM? Self-tested, computer-generated typing certificates are not accepted. If “Yes,” please attach to application. Yes/No
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms.
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities require by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential job functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee occasionally works in outside weather conditions.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
- All new employees are required to have their paycheck directly deposited to a bank account.
- Some positions may require a valid California driver's license and acceptable driving record according to County policy.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made for those persons who are disabled under the Americans with Disabilities Act to perform the essential functions of the position.
- As part of the selection process, all individuals provided with a preliminary offer of employment with Shasta County will be subject to a background investigation, including a criminal history check (primarily completed through the taking of fingerprints). An image of your fingerprints will be captured and sent to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The resulting report of your conviction history, (if any), will be evaluated along with the other information received in connection with your application. Except as otherwise required by law, a criminal conviction will not necessarily disqualify you from the position. The nature of the offense, the date of the offense, the surrounding circumstances, and the relevance of the offense to the position applied for may, however, be considered.
- Based on the results of the background investigation and criminal history check, applicants may then be provided with an offer of employment conditioned on the results of a medical examination, which includes drug/alcohol testing.
- Shasta County participates in E-Verify. For more information visit https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/everify/posters/IER_RighttoWorkPoster.pdf (Download PDF reader). If you do not have internet access, contact Personnel at (530) 225-5515 to request a flyer.
- In accordance with Government Code Section 3100, County employees, in the event of a disaster are considered disaster workers and may be asked to respond accordingly.
- Positions in this classification are covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the County and the United Public Employees of California – General Unit.
- Employees in this classification are covered under the CalPERS retirement program. Depending on the provisions of the California Public Employees’ Pension Reform Act (PEPRA) and other applicable laws, an employee in this classification will be covered under one of the following CalPERS retirement formulas: (1) 2% at 55, (2) 2% at 60, or (3) 2% at 62. An employee in this classification will also contribute up to 9.5% his/her pay to this plan or will contribute such other amount to the plan as authorized by PEPRA and other applicable laws. Please visit our employees benefit page at https://www.shastacounty.gov/personnel/page/employee-benefits for additional information regarding benefits and CalPERS coverage information. The provisions in this flyer and on the County website are for information purposes only. To the extent the provisions of the flyer or the County website are inconsistent with PEPRA and other applicable laws, PEPRA and other applicable laws shall govern.
APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCEDURES
Applicants will be screened and those considered best qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the announced requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.
Veterans' Credit: Veterans (as defined by California Government Code section 18973) who have been discharged from military service under conditions other than dishonorable and who receive a passing score on all components of the employment examinations (up to and including oral examinations) shall receive credit for an additional five points to be added to their final examination score. To be considered for this credit, a veteran MUST provide a copy of his or her discharge document (DD-214 or equivalent) and information as to the type of discharge (honorable, dishonorable, etc.) WITH THE EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION ON OR BEFORE THE FINAL FILING DATE.
Applicants are encouraged to apply on-line at www.ShastaCountyCareers.com or submit an application to the Shasta County Personnel Office.
Arrangements may be made to accommodate applicants with disabilities. Requests for accommodations may be made to the Shasta County Personnel Office by the filing deadline posted on this bulletin. Shasta County does not discriminate on the basis of disability. If you feel you are being denied service based on a disability, our ADA Coordinator may be reached at (530) 225-5515; relay service (800) 735-2922; fax (530) 225-5345.
Shasta County will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act. You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if Shasta County is concerned about a conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. Find out more about the Fair Chance Act by visiting calcivilrights.ca.gov/fair-chance-act.
SHASTA COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Salary : $20 - $26