Plans Examiner

Plans Examiner

The salary for this position is: $5,959.00 - $7,926.00 monthly. This position is posted until filled with a first application review on April 1, 2026. The Community Planning and Economic Development (CPED) department is seeking a highly motivated Plans Examiner to join our Community Development Division. Under the guidance of the Building Supervisor, the Plans Examiner is responsible for reviewing construction drawings and supporting documentation of residential, multi-family, and light commercial projects for compliance with the requirements of the State Building Code Act as adopted by Thurston County.

Essential functions may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Review light commercial, residential, and multifamily construction documents and specifications for compliance to International Building, Mechanical and Fire Codes, Uniform Plumbing Codes, Washington State Energy Codes, Accessibility Codes, Regulations and the Thurston County Code for Special Flood Hazard Areas.
• Review and check engineering calculations submitted by engineers and architects. Review energy code forms and documentation for compliance to Washington State Energy Code.
• Review new or alternative construction techniques for compliance with alternate methods allowed under the code.
• Provide technical consultation, code interpretations, and communicate code requirements to internal staff, public, and design professionals to meet code compliance both in the office and field environment.
• Coordinate approval of non-residential projects with other departments having jurisdiction. Process and monitor applications, issue or deny permits, and schedule building inspections at different stages of construction. Assist in the investigation of code violations.
• Prepare comments for proposed projects and attends pre-submittal conferences.
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing and establish and maintain courteous and respectful working relationships with other departments, architects, engineers, contractors, builders, and the public. Enforce regulations with firmness, tact, and impartiality.
• Maintain certifications for employment; attend workshops and read technical literature to keep current on codes.

Working Conditions:

• Working Environment – Duties are typically performed indoors and outdoors in the Building Development Center and asionally exposed to temperature and other weather extremes.
• Physical demands – frequent standing, sitting, driving, and keyboarding. Occasional carrying, walking, climbing and reaching. Physical effort is required at the work location due to occasional heavy lifting up to 30 lbs.
• Schedule – Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM or similar. Work demands may require work outside the assigned hours.
• Essential Personnel – This position may be considered essential personnel to ensure the operations of essential functions during an emergency or when the County has suspended operations.
• Travel Requirements – Occasional travel may be required to attend meetings, trainings, or visit jobsites.
• Customer Interactions – Daily interactions via phone, in-person, and video with Thurston County Staff, and with members of the public.

Why you'll love it here:
Thurston County is located between Seattle and Portland in Western Washington's South Puget Sound Region. Perched in between the mountains and the ocean, the area boasts the perfect blend of year-round outdoor activities including boating, hiking, skiing, and more. The region is also home to the state capitol city of Olympia, known for its many restaurants, microbreweries, coffee shops, farmer's markets, kids' activities, history, and art events.

Discover more about life in Thurston County at

Message to potential applicants:
We understand that some potential applicants are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the functions or skills listed in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and we understand that may be someone who will learn some of these skills on the job. If you are interested in this position, and meet the minimum qualifications, we encourage you to go ahead and…