PERMIT SPECIALIST

Why Work for the City of Balch Springs?

The City of Balch Springs is a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable community that thrives on its rich history, commitment to progress, and dedication to fostering a positive work environment. As a city, we focus on enhancing the quality of life for our residents, businesses, and visitors.

We are a forward-thinking organization that embraces innovation and strives for excellence in every department. With our clear vision to inspire growth and community pride, the City of Balch Springs is an excellent place to build a rewarding career. Whether you're passionate about public safety, economic development, or community engagement, we offer diverse opportunities that allow you to make a meaningful impact.

As an employee of the City of Balch Springs, you'll be part of a supportive team where professional development is encouraged, and collaboration is valued. We believe in providing employees with the tools and resources they need to succeed, ensuring a positive work-life balance and fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and open communication.

Employee Benefits & Compensation:

• Competitive Salary: We offer competitive pay based on qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Includes medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families.
• Retirement Plans: Access to Texas Municipal Retirement System
• Paid Leave: Generous paid time off, including vacation (15 days for 1st year), sick leave, and holidays (11 plus 2 floating.)
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and career advancement within the city.
• Employee Recognition: We value and celebrate the hard work and dedication of our employees.

Our core values of integrity, respect and transparency guide our everyday work, and we actively support our employees' professional growth. Join our team and help shape the future of a city that's committed to creating a thriving environment for all.

Job Summary:


The Permit Specialist ensures efficient and accurate processing of permit applications received. The Permit Specialist specializes in reviewing and verifying compliance with city ordinances and regulations, maintaining communication with applicants, and coordinating with relevant departments. Additionally, the Permit Specialist plays a critical role in the plan review process, facilitating the smooth flow of information between applicants and plan reviewers.

Education/Training/Experience Requirements:

1. High School Diploma or GED
   1. Associate degree in public/business administration preferred.
2. Minimum of two (2) years of progressively responsible administrative or customer service experience.
3. At least one (1) year of experience in permitting, planning, inspections, construction administration, development services, code enforcement, municipal government, or a closely related field.
4. A valid Texas driver's license.
5. Certification or license in permits must be obtained within one (1) year from date of hire/promotion.

Essential Job Functions:

• Serves as the primary point of contact for applicants throughout the permit and plan review process, providing guidance, status updates, and clarifications.
  • Verifies completeness and compliance with relevant codes and ordinances for all building, zoning, and safety standards before issuing permits.
  • Supports the plan review process by ensuring submitted documents are complete and routed to appropriate reviewers; tracks the progress of reviews and provides status updates to applicants.
  • Collaborates with inspection teams, code enforcement, and other departments to address permit and plan review-related inquiries
  • Assists contractors and applicants with walkthroughs, offering guidance on city requirements and addressing plan-related questions.
• May serve as a liaison with other City departments, divisions, and outside agencies; negotiate and resolve significant and controversial issues, complaints and concerns related to the code compliance division.
• May prepare and present reports, presentations and other necessary correspondence for code compliance division
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:

• Modern office procedures, methods, and equipment, including computers and associated equipment.
• City ordinances pertaining to planning and permitting.

Skills in:

• Exceptional external and internal customer service.
• Communicating verbally and in writing in a clear, effective, professional manner with citizens, other departments and government agencies.
• Microsoft Office Suite skills including Word, Excel and Outlook
• Maintaining sustained attention to detail and working under the pressure of rigid deadlines.
• Working independently with general instruction; performing a variety of functions and managing multiple projects at one time.
• Understanding, interpreting and being able to explain department office policies, rules and practices.
• Maintaining reports, city records and files.

Physical Demands/Work Environment:


Work is performed in a standard office environment with low to moderate noise level. Subject to sitting for an extended period of time, standing, walking, bending, reaching, kneeling, lifting and putting away such items as records and office supplies of moderate weight of up to 40 pounds. Works with a wide variety of people.


E.E.O.C. The City of Balch Springs does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability or military service in employment or the provision of services.