Permit Tech/Plans Examiner

Job Description

Job Title: Permit Technician / Plans Examiner

Department: Development Services

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Building Official

Date: [Insert Adoption Date]

Position Summary

Under the general supervision of the Building Official, the Permit Technician / Plans Examiner is responsible for processing building permits, performing plan reviews, and providing customer and administrative support for the Development Services Department. The position ensures compliance with applicable codes, ordinances, and regulations, while also serving as a primary contact for contractors, developers, and the public. This is a hybrid role that combines permit intake/customer service with technical plan review. Approximately 60% of time is devoted to permitting and customer service functions and 40% to plan review and technical duties.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

A. Permit Processing & Intake

- Accepts, reviews, and processes building permit applications for completeness.

- Calculates and collects fees; issues permits upon approval.

- Coordinates utility releases, contractor registrations, and inspection scheduling.

- Maintains permit records and databases in compliance with state records retention schedules.

B. Plan Review

- Reviews residential and commercial building plans for compliance with zoning, building, and related codes.

- Communicates required corrections to applicants, architects, engineers, and contractors.

- Coordinates with the Building Official and other staff on technical issues.

C. Customer Service

- Provides information to the public regarding permitting requirements, development processes, and city codes.

- Answers inquiries by phone, email, and in person.

- Assists contractors and developers with applications and procedural questions.

D. Administrative Support

- Generates daily, weekly, and monthly reports on permitting and inspection activity.

- Maintains files, logs, and correspondence.

- Documents and routes code enforcement complaints to the appropriate staff.

E. Board & Commission Support

- Prepares agendas, packets, and minutes for the Planning & Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustment.

- Coordinates with City Secretary to ensure compliance with Open Meetings and Public Information Act requirements.

F. Other Duties

- Attends occasional evening or weekend meetings as required.

- Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

- High school diploma or GED required. - Prior experience in permitting, planning, construction, or customer service preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

- Knowledge of zoning ordinances, building codes, and development regulations. - Ability to read and interpret building plans and specifications. - Strong communication skills (oral and written) for working with contractors, developers, and the public. - Proficiency with records management and database systems. - Ability to multitask in a fast-paced office environment. - Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.

Certifications & Training

- ICC Permit Technician Certification – required. - ICC Residential Plans Examiner Certification – preferred at hire, required within 1 year. - ICC Commercial Plans Examiner Certification – required within 2 years.

- Open Meetings Act Certification – within 90 days of employment. - Public Information Act Certification – within 90 days of employment.

Performance Measures

- Accuracy and timeliness of permit processing and plan reviews. - Compliance with customer service standards (responsiveness, professionalism). - Meeting deadlines for agendas, packets, and reports. - Effective coordination with staff, boards, and contractors.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

- Work is primarily performed in a standard office environment with frequent interaction with the public. - Occasional site visits or field assistance may be required. - Must be able to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods. - Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds on occasion.

Pay: $40,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,000 - $60,000