Plans Examiner

About Company

At Cogent Infotech, we believe in creating opportunities that empower individuals and transform organizations. With over 20 years of excellence in consulting and talent solutions, we’re proud to build inclusive workplaces and deliver innovative, people‑first solutions to clients across the public and private sectors. We value integrity, empathy, and continuous learning, and we welcome you to bring your authentic self as we grow together.

Title: Plans Examiner I
Location: Clearwater, FL

Under general direction, the Plans Examiner I reviews permit applications, plans, and documents for compliance with the client.

Essential Functions:

• Reviews and evaluates building permit applications and plans to ensure that all information is submitted; conducts detailed and accurate reviews and provides comments to ensure deficiencies and errors are addressed.
• Interfaces, engages, and communicates with architects, engineers, walk‑in customers, and the general public regarding various projects and associated plans and questions.
• Examines construction plans and specifications for code compliance; understands and applies all applicable codes and ordinances; discloses and notifies applicants of code deficiencies.
• Collaborates with building inspectors on design issues identified in the field.
• Reviews architectural and engineering plans for permit applications in flood zones; demonstrates strong technical knowledge regarding flood zone requirements and ensures that all permit applications are accurately submitted and reflect important information; maintains, edits, and updates records for flood zone construction projects.
• Communicates with other City departments responsible for review of plans and specifications in a timely and professional manner.
• Assists and participates in training of other employees to enhance knowledge and skill when conveying answers and handling other plans‑related concerns from the public.
• Computes and determines permit fees; approves or disapproves permit applications and communicates effectively regarding errors or deficiencies.
• Coordinates office activities related to the issuance of permits; performs various technical and computer work to ensure plans and permits are handled efficiently and professionally.
• Assists with damage assessments when needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Licenses, Certifications, and Equipment:

• A valid State driver’s license is required.
• A valid Standard Plans Examiner license issued by the State of Florida in one (1) of the following areas:
  • Residential
  • Building
  • Mechanical
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
• Must complete required continuing education to maintain license as required by the State of Florida.

This position is required to operate the below equipment, machines, tools, and other work aides:
Digital camera, City vehicles, copier, phone, personal computer, various computer software & applications, such as Microsoft Office 365, digital and paper code books, and other equipment as assigned.

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Architecture, Building Construction, or related subject, and one (1) year of professional level experience in the field of construction or a related field, building inspection, or plans review, corresponding to the State of Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) licensing category; must meet qualifications as established by the latest revisions of the State of Florida Chapter 468, Florida Statutes, and Division 61G19, Florida Administrative Code;

OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Knowledge of –

• Building and related codes
• Florida Statutes and Florida Administrative Code
• City Ordinances
• Construction practices and methods
• Nationally recognized construction standards (ANSI, ASTM, ACI, AISC, USG, etc.)
• Architectural and engineering principles relating to code compliance and design specifics
• Fundamentals of architecture, construction, and building
• FEMA requirements for construction in flood zones
• Computer systems and related programs
• General office policies and procedures
• Computers…