Permit Technician

Position Overview

The Cosumnes Community Services District (District) is seeking a highly motivated, qualified individual to join our team as a full‑time Permit Technician in the Fire Department.

Under direct or general supervision, the Permit Technician performs a variety of technical support duties related to the processing and issuance of permits for the Fire Department. Responsibilities include preliminary review of plans and specifications, customer service by phone, email, and at the public counter, and the issuance and fee calculation for permits. The position is highly clerical and technical and is integral to the Fire Department’s permitting operations.

The class requires advanced administrative and basic technical skills related to building permits. The Permit Technician interacts frequently with the public, architects, developers, contractors, and engineers, using permit‑tracking software to calculate fees, manage the permit lifecycle, and archive plans.

Receives supervision as assigned in the department organizational chart. This position does not exercise any lead or supervisory responsibilities.

The salary range is $26.84–$37.77 per hour. New employees are typically appointed at step 1; higher appointments are considered only up to the midpoint of the range based on experience, education, or unique skills.

• Participate in the development of the Fire Prevention Division permitting work plan and monitor workflow, methods, and procedures.
• Review applications, documents, and plan submittals for accuracy and compliance with applicable laws.
• Perform preliminary reviews of plan submittals for completeness and fee determination; update permit activity information in specialized database and tracking programs.
• Track and coordinate the routing of new submittals and re‑submittals.
• Conduct issuance of permits, including burn permits, will‑serve letters, permit release letters, fire permits, and subdivision lot permitting.
• Assist with relevant programs, processes, and inspections, including application processing, fee collection, and public inquiry handling.
• Perform mathematical fee calculations for the public, other Fire Department staff, and government agencies; maintain accurate financial records.
• Prepare and process reports, forms, and records such as payment requests, purchase orders, invoices, and receipts.
• Provide administrative support to senior management and departmental staff; act as liaison and coordinate resolutions with the public and other stakeholders.
• Assist or administer department projects and programs as assigned; conduct research and compile informational materials.
• Monitor and order office supplies; prepare and track purchase requisitions and vendor invoices.
• Troubleshoot and assist staff and customers when technical issues arise.
• Respond to questions regarding departmental services, building ordinances, codes, and permit processes; route complaints and provide follow‑up as needed.
• Perform related duties as required.

• High School Diploma or equivalent.

• Two (2) years of experience at a permit application counter in a public agency, preferably in a building, planning, public works, or fire department; or
• Two (2) years of private‑sector experience in construction or development, including permit processing, site development, and construction review.

• Must possess a valid California class “C” driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record.

• The building permit process and coordination with other agencies.
• Model building codes and construction classification types.
• General construction practices, methods, and terminology.
• Arithmetic and mathematical calculations.
• Inspection methods and procedures.
• Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
• Customer‑service techniques for dealing with public, vendors, contractors, and district personnel.
• English language structure, spelling, composition, and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions.

• Explain district policies, procedures, fees, and basic…