Permit Clerk

Job Opportunities

The City of Chelsea, Alabama is a vibrant and growing medium‑sized city dedicated to collaboration, innovation, and service to its residents. The City seeks a dedicated Permit Clerk to support its Building Inspections and Planning Department.

Reporting to the Building Official, the Permit Clerk will be responsible for clerical and customer‑service duties supporting the City’s Building Inspections and Planning Department. This position serves as the primary point of contact for permit intake and general development inquiries, providing information to the public regarding building permits, zoning, inspections, and planning processes.

The Permit Clerk processes permit applications, maintains permit records and databases, assists with fee collection and tracking, and coordinates the flow of information between applicants, inspectors, planners, and other City departments. Work requires attention to detail, accuracy, and the ability to communicate effectively with the public and staff in a fast‑paced environment.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for the Building Inspections and Planning Department, assisting customers by phone, email, and in person with questions regarding permits, zoning, inspections, and development processes.
• Receive, review, and process building permit and zoning applications for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with City requirements.
• Enter, update, and maintain permit, inspection, and zoning data in departmental software systems and databases.
• Collect fees, prepare receipts, and coordinate permit issuance in accordance with established City policies and procedures.
• Route applications and supporting documentation to appropriate staff and departments for review and approval.
• Track permit status and inspection schedules, and communicate updates to applicants, contractors, and the public to ensure timely processing.
• Maintain organized electronic and physical filing systems and perform general administrative duties, including scanning, data entry, mail distribution, and preparation of routine correspondence and reports.
• Comply with all applicable federal, state, and municipal laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Perform all other related duties as assigned and required.

• Graduate of an accredited high school or holder of a certificate of high‑school equivalency (GED).
• Three to five years of public administrative, clerical, or office support experience. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
• Proficient computer skills with knowledge of common office software and willingness to learn specialty software related to the position.
• Willingness to work non‑standard hours and overtime as required.
• Ability to pass a pre‑employment criminal background check, driver record check, and drug screen.
• Valid Alabama driver’s license and a driving record suitable for insurability throughout employment.
• Willingness to travel overnight to attend continuing education courses and workshops.
• Physical ability to perform the essential functions of the position.

This is a full‑time, 40‑hour a week position, Monday through Friday.

The wage range for this position is $19.23 per hour to $24.03 per hour, plus the City’s full extended benefits package. Starting wage will be based on the candidate’s qualifications, certifications, and experience.

Application instructions:
Submit an application via the City of Chelsea’s online portal at or email the completed application, cover letter, and resume to . For email submissions, include the position title in the subject line. Only selected candidates will be contacted.