Plans Examiner , II, or III

Plans Examiner

Under general supervision, this position performs specialized plan review of residential, commercial and other types of occupancy/use classifications. The position will also provide support for the administration of the minimum housing code and field inspection of construction projects for the installation of new, existing, and remodeled structures. Work may be performed in the following areas of trade certification: plans examination, building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical and structural to determine compliance with the current codes and standards adopted by the State and Town.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily while consistently adhering to the Town's mission statement and policies. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with a disability to perform the essential duties. The list below is intended to illustrate the responsibilities of this position and is not all-encompassing. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement, and the Town may revise or change these duties at any time.

• Reviews building construction plans, drawings, calculations, and specifications for compliance with adopted building, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, structural, energy, and fire/life safety codes.
• Identifies plan deficiencies and prepares written correction notices; confers with contractors, developers, architects, engineers, and the public to resolve code compliance issues.
• Coordinates with field inspection staff to ensure approved plans are interpreted consistently during construction; may perform limited site inspections to verify compliance.
• Reviews proposed occupancy classifications and safety features of structures.
• Assists in the issuance of building permits and calculates applicable review or permit fees.
• Maintains complete and accurate records of plan reviews, correspondence, logs, and reports.
• Assists in the administration of the minimum housing standards including responses to complaints/violations, plan review and related inspections. Coordinates with other departments and divisions as necessary.
• Provides customer service to design professionals, contractors, developers, and the public regarding building codes, plan submittal requirements and permitting processes.
• Keeps current with code updates and attends training, certification, or professional development classes.
• Participates in pre-application meetings, pre-construction meetings and project coordination as assigned.
• Performs other related duties as required.

The requirements listed below are representative of the education, experience, certification and/or licensure required. An equivalent combination of education and experience to perform the essential duties and meet the necessary employment standards may be considered.

• Requires a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Education, training or experience as an architect, draftsman/drafter, engineer or similar designer may be substituted for certain education, training and experience requirements.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid Driver's License issued by the State of North Carolina for the type of vehicle or equipment operated; safe driving record and a minimum of two (2) years of driving history.

Knowledge of and experience with the principles, practices and techniques of electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and structural codes. Knowledge of municipal building codes and enforcement of codes. Knowledge of design and construction methods. Knowledge of possible defects and flaws in building construction and corrective measures. Skill to identify potential issues and problem-solve with an ability to suggest workable solutions that comply with or meet the intent of the adopted code.

Commitment to and skill in the provision of customer service. Skill in the use of computers, various software programs and other types of modern office equipment. Skill in verbal and written communication. Ability to read and interpret a variety of building plans, codes and design guidance. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. Ability to work with limited supervision in plan review and while in the field, with the ability to follow specific directions.

Ability to communicate effectively, problem-solve and represent the Town with builders, contractors, developers and the public. Ability to analyze and resolve difficult problems while working with customers to manage conflict.