Fire Code Senior Plans Examiner

Plan Examiner

The Development Services & Permits Division facilitates safe and responsible development, construction, and occupancy of buildings and properties in our community. In 2023, the division issued over 57,000 permits with a construction value of $11.15B. In addition, the division conducted over 41,000 inspections and almost 85,000 plan reviews. We strive to provide prompt and courteous service to our customers, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

Our goal is to promote public safety, protect the environment, and support economic growth through the issuance of permits and inspections. The plan examiner reviews development permit plans for compliance with the rules and regulations of Harris County Permits Group.

Job Duties:

• Review of commercial building projects to ensure compliance with the Harris County Fire Code.
• Responds to inquiries from the public and from permit applicants.
• Coordinate with the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office and other county agencies.
• During emergency response situations for our community, such as hurricanes or floods, the position may be tasked with additional duties.
• Perform other duties as assigned. Not all duties and responsibilities may be included in the above description.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you need special services or accommodations, please call  or email  This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.

Requirements:

• A high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent is required.
• ICC Certification
• TCFP Certification
• Fire Protection Certification
• Three (3) years of experience in building design and construction, or in the local/state application of the International Fire Code and International Building Code standards.
• Ability to read construction drawings and topographical maps.
• Good mathematical skills.
• Must be able to communicate orally and deal effectively with the general public.
• Communicate rules and regulations to the public, both in writing and verbally.
• Perform daily functions with minimal supervision.
• Conveying detailed instructions relative to the issuance of permits.
• Performing data entry for requirements related to permit issuance.
• Interfacing with the Compliance Coordinator of the Permit Groups through verbal and written communication.
• Standing for extended periods to discuss permit requirements with the public.
• Lifting maps, plans, and specifications in the review process for permit issuance. Stooping or crouching during the review process may become necessary.
• Knowledge of International Building Code and/or International Fire Code.
• Microsoft Office Software

Emergency Deployment & Continuity of Operations Requirement:

• In accordance with Harris County's Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) Policy, this position is subject to emergency response and deployment protocols. The employee may be designated as supporting a Mission Essential Function (MEF) and must:
• Participate in the classification process of departmental staff based on MEF responsibilities.
• Be available for temporary deployment to an alternative work location, role, or telework assignment during emergency events.
• Confirm work assignments with their supervisor prior to reporting to any worksite during such events.
• Remain flexible in assuming alternative duties as directed to support continuity of County operations.

Qualifying education, experience, knowledge and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.

Preferences:

• Six (6) years of experience in building design and construction or local/state application of International Fire Code and International Building Code standards.

General Information:

Position Type, and Typical Hours of Work:
Full-Time | Regular | 40 hours per week. Subject to early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays at times, depending upon the project or workload.

Salary:
Commensurate experience, based on 26 pay periods.

Physical Demands and Environmental Exposure:
Most assignments will be performed in an office, meeting, or operations command center environment, but some fieldwork may be required. Extended work hours may be required during the activation of disaster recovery operations for an unspecified length of time (varies based on the extent of the event). This position requires bending, stooping, and lifting up to 25 lbs., frequent walking, standing, sitting, reaching, and ascending/descending stairs.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Featured Benefits:

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance.
• Wellness.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• 457 deferred compensation plans.
• Retirement pension (TCDRS).
• Transportation…