Plans Examiner I

Overview We are hiring a Plans Examiner I to help ensure safe, high-quality construction in our community. The role reviews residential and small commercial building plans, supports the permitting process from intake to issuance, and ensures compliance with building codes and city ordinances. The position is part of the Building Division and works closely with contractors, architects, engineers and other city employees. Essential Job Functions Assists with building permit intake and permit issuance. Performs simple over‑the‑counter plan review for small residential projects. Interprets and applies building code requirements to review building plans for new single‑ and multi‑family residential construction, additions, and alterations, while explaining building ordinances and codes to customers. Verifies that all permit documentation is submitted and that all required reviews are completed by other city departments before permit approval or CO/TCO issuance. Calculates building square footage, permit fees, and use tax. Coordinates and attends construction meetings to educate customers on building code and permitting requirements. Maintains comprehensive computer records by documenting code violations, entering review results, conducting online research for installation instructions, product listings, and specific requirements, and reviewing building plan records both digitally and in written form. Establishes professional working relationships with contractors, engineers, architects, property owners and other city employees. Provides timely information to a variety of people concerning city building, fire and other codes, ordinances and regulations. Identifies, documents, and reports any problems or violations to the building official. Performs field inspections to assist building inspectors with workload as needed. Assists with the review and adoption of building codes. Maintains professional certifications and licenses. Travels to and attends team and organizational meetings, training, events and activities and represents the department professionally. Other Job Functions Attends meetings and seminars as required. Performs site investigations, when necessary, to verify adherence to city building codes and other relevant ordinances, rules, and regulations. Performs occasional after‑hour emergency inspections as needed. Performs other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Basic knowledge of inspection processes, construction practices, codes, and standards; familiarity with building construction materials, methods, and practices in all trades; knowledge of local, state, and national codes. Strong customer service skills with emphasis on conflict resolution. Proficiency in permitting and inspection software used by the building division and ability to troubleshoot for staff support. Ability to review permits, building plans, and applications for completeness and compliance with building codes; ability to inspect building construction for conformity to codes and standards; ability to perform basic structural calculations; effective verbal and written communication to support organizational objectives and interact positively with all levels of personnel. Preferred License & Certification International Code Council (ICC) Residential Plans Examiner certification; two additional ICC residential or commercial plans examiner or inspection certifications at hire or ability to obtain within one year. Valid Colorado driver’s license with an acceptable driving record. Education High School/GED required. Degree in Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred. Work Experience Three (3) years as a building inspector or plans examiner in a municipal/governmental setting; equivalent combination of experience and training may be considered. Other Qualifications Must pass a criminal background check and a driving record check, if required by the position. Physical Demands Minimal physical effort; predominantly clerical work. Sedentary with occasional light lifting and carrying. Walking or standing as required. Hazards Minimal exposure to hazards; typical office environment with rarely to no exposure to injury or accident. Work Environment Routine office noise and equipment noise. Benefits Robust Total Rewards package. Equal Employment Opportunity The City of Arvada promotes Equal Pay for Equal Work and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr