Plans Examiner - Community Development (0526)

Job Title

Under general supervision performs technical review of building construction plans and specifications to ensure compliance with applicable codes, ordinances, and safety standards. Interprets and applies adopted building codes; identifies deficiencies and provides corrective guidance. Works collaboratively with design professionals, contractors, and the public to facilitate compliant project approvals while safeguarding public health, safety, and welfare.

The mission of the Department of Community Development is to provide excellence in development related services for the public so they can enjoy a high quality of life including well designed neighborhoods, safe housing, and the protection of the natural environment.

Typical Duties

• Reviews and evaluates plans to ensure compliance with applicable codes and ordinance requirements
• Performs field inspections for complex commercial and residential construction projects
• Communicates with customers to provide information in matters relating to construction and code requirements
• Suggests plan modifications to allow conformity to codes
• Attends pre-construction meetings
• Issues permits and calculates fees
• Performs research regarding alternate building methods
• Makes recommendations for amendments to local building code
• Prepares and maintains records and reports
• Participates in an open forum and makes suggestions on the interpretations of the building codes
• Reviews and interprets manufacture's specifications and evaluation reports
• May perform special inspections

Essential functions include but not limited to driving; standing for intake of permits at counter; walking; working with and around others including co-workers, customers and supervisor; dealing with interruptions; repetitive motions (hand/wrist) for computer work; vision acuity (near and far) for computer work; hearing and speech for ordinary communication on telephone and with customers; and touch (finger dexterity) computers, telephones and intake of plans.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate degree in construction management, engineering, computer design or a related field and two years working with plans, building, construction, inspection or plan review experience OR, any combination of education, training and experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Must obtain an Arizona driver's license by date of hire and maintain throughout employment. Final job offer will be contingent upon a satisfactory 5-year Arizona Motor Vehicle Report. Must obtain ICC Certification as Residential Plans Examiner within 1 year of hire. Must obtain ICC Certification as Commercial Plans Examiner within 1 year of hire. This is a safety sensitive position – driving.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Considerable knowledge of:

• Applicable codes and standards
• Materials and methods of residential and commercial construction
• Engineering practices and techniques
• Plan Review Software
• Permitting Software
• Computer Operating Programs

Skill in:

• Plan evaluation and review
• Communicating technical information
• Performing research

Ability to:

• Understand and interpret architectural and engineering plans
• Accurately evaluate construction plans for conformity to codes
• Analyze complex structural calculations
• Work safely and support the culture of workplace safety
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other agencies and the public
• Follow written and verbal instructions
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing