Plans Examiner I or II

DEFINITION OF WORK:  This is technical and professional work processing permit requests, reviewing construction plans and assuring that all necessary documentation has been completed so that structures, systems and other construction within unincorporated areas of Douglas County provide a safe and healthy environment for its citizens and the public.

Examples of Duties

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

·         Reviews construction documents for compliance with adopted codes.

·         Computes square footage, minimum fire separation distance and allowable opening percentages, figure project valuations, assess appropriate fees and perform data entry to create, approve and issue a permit

·         Indicates when changes, alternative methods of construction or additional information is needed to meet the intent of the code and contact the appropriate parties

·         Communicates and collaborates with other divisions, departments, jurisdictions, and metro districts to ensure that all parties involved have been notified and/or approve of the issuance of the building permit while fostering and maintaining professional relations with aforementioned organizations

·         Answers questions for design professionals, contractors and the public regarding building codes, permitting processes and general inspection procedures

·         Consistently takes responsibility for ensuring that the process remains timely within the established division’s expectations for turnaround and customer service

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:  Periodic supervision. Incumbent must be able to work independently with minimum supervision and demonstrate the ability to recognize unique projects and problems that need more attention and supervisor’s opinion and feedback.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:  This position has no direct supervisory authority.

INDEPENDENT JUDGMENT:  Frequently building codes, as they relate to complicated design and construction issues, do not clearly address all possibilities in the built environment and decisions must be made based on the intent of the codes, the County’s procedures and processes in order to ensure a quality plan review.

CONSEQUENCE OF ERROR: Proper application of the adopted codes and resolutions during the plan review process is critical to maintain the minimum standards for the protection of life, health and safety.  Failure to do so may result in loss of time, legal exposure, greater expenditure of the County and customer resources, and in extreme cases, death or injury to the public.

Minimum Qualifications

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:   Minimum of a high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent is required. Must have three years of experience in construction, plans examination, inspection, or related field. A combination of experience and education may be considered.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge:

·         Demonstrates knowledge of the residential and commercial codes as appropriate for the position

·         Self motivated to stay current and informed of new construction methods, materials and safety procedures, including national, state, and local code interpretations, and regulations

Skills:

·         Must be able to effectively communicate with people beyond giving and receiving instructions and possess the ability to explain complex code and engineering concepts, principles and methodologies in a clear, comprehensive and concise manner that is understandable to the customer through written, verbal and/or illustrated means

o    Self monitors behavior to consistently set a high standard of professionalism and image to customers and peers

·          Basic computer skills

Abilities:

·         Able to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to define and resolve problems, establish facts, and draw a valid conclusion in the application of the adopted codes, resolutions and applicable statutes.  Capable of prioritizing multiple code concepts and applying them to projects in a logical method achieving a productive outcome

·         Has the ability to apply mathematical formulas, fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to specific project scenarios

·         Able to enter and transfer information among computer applications in an accurate and timely manner

·         Capable of establishing a systematic approach to promote efficiency and effectiveness within a multi-task work environment

·         Able to complete tasks with accuracy, neatness and thoroughness within a specific time frame

CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, & REGISTRATIONS:

·         One code certification from the International Code Council or trade related license or the ability to obtain one within one year of obtaining this position

 

Supplemental Information

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Physical Work Environment:  Work is performed in a typical office environment.  Will occasionally be required to perform outside site and field inspections.

Physical Demands:  Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.  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 occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, talk, hear, and reach with hands and arms.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include the ability to adjust focus and perceive multiple map overlay variables.

Material and Equipment Directly Used: Computer, iPad or similar device, smartphone, Printer/fax/copy/scanner, and similar office equipment. May drive a county vehicle.

Other Necessary Requirements

In the event of an emergency/disaster in or near the County, all County employees are expected to make every effort to be available to assist the County Manager, Elected/Appointed Officials and Department Directors to ensure the continued operation of any and all necessary County functions.  This may mean being available to perform additional duties and hours beyond what is normally required.  In the event that an exempt employee does work more than 40 hours a week in support of County operations during an emergency, such employee may receive overtime or other appropriate wage compensation in accordance with existing County policies or at the discretion of the County.