Building Support Technician

Job Overview

This is highly responsible, complex technical and administrative work for the Building Division that requires excellent communication skills. This position handles a variety of important Division functions including issuance of building permits, problem solving, providing excellent public service, and an array of daily diverse job assignments. The role also serves as a backup for the elevator program, handling inspections, permitting and invoicing processes.

• Shares responsibility for the daily functioning of the office by acting as a lead in performing midlevel security tasks in POSSE, including extensive contact with the public and staff; evaluating and anticipating complex issues that may arise and attempting to resolve and/or direct to the appropriate authority.
• Assists contractors, homeowners and the public at the front counter and on telephone with a myriad of requests relating to building permits, inspections and web services.
• Accepts, reviews and processes permit applications; checks for compliance with technical criteria and submittal requirements; reviews and issues permit.
• Greets customers, answers telephones and emails and reviews forms for accuracy and completeness; explains permit procedures, forms, fees, determines if documents are missing, conveys messages, handles requests for information, and resolves problems and complaints within realm of responsibility.
• Utilizes computer for preparation of complex correspondence and spreadsheet development, data entry and inquiry, and records research and maintenance.
• Initiates the permitting processes electronically for building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and demolition permits and, upon approval, issues permits.
• Receives payments for permits, re‑inspection fees, and other fees at the front counter or by mail; processes payments accordingly and maintains statutorily required records. Processes refund requests from contractors and homeowners to submit to Treasurer for reimbursements.
• Utilizes various computer systems and programs to enter, store and/or retrieve information as requested or otherwise necessary.
• Establishes and maintains a variety of tangible documents, filing and retrieving information as requested or otherwise necessary for issuance of permits, including the preparation and processing of received file documents daily into electronic imaging.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Education and experience:
  
  High school diploma or GED plus three years of experience in dealing with public and performing varied office and administrative tasks supplemented by courses in accounting, bookkeeping, budgeting, office administration, or related work, OR any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Certification:
  International Code Council (ICC) Permit Technician Certification is preferred.
• Communication skills:
  Ability to effectively communicate in both oral and written form in a clear, concise and professional manner. Ability to read and interpret documents and procedure manuals. Ability to develop detailed reports and correspondence. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations.
• Mathematical skills:
  Ability to apply mathematical formulas, fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
• Reasoning ability:
  Verbal aptitude to communicate effectively and efficiently in a variety of professional and technical languages, including building code and accounting terminology, both oral and written. Ability to collect data, define problems, establish facts and draw valid conclusions.
• Organizational skills:
  Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize tasks, and provide information and recommendations in an efficient and timely manner.
• Other skills and abilities:
  Knowledge of bookkeeping and accounting principles and techniques of governmental accounting transactions. Ability to understand regulations and codes; handle detail with accuracy. Conceptual understanding of Desktop PC use and specialized skills including typing, 10‑key, and working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, County electronic systems, and Building Management software.

• 11 ½ paid holidays each year plus a floating holiday
• 9 hours of paid vacation per month
• 8 hours of paid sick time per month
• Medical insurance options:
  United Healthcare Doctors Plan or United Healthcare HDHP Plan
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Accident/critical illness insurance
• Life insurance equals two times employee salary at no cost to employee
• Mandatory retirement – defined contribution of 8% matched at 8%
• Annual performance reviews with potential for an increase
• Tuition reimbursement and employee training

For more information on job functions, requirements, and  the Douglas County careers site at