Plans Examiner

Position:
Plans Examiner

Under the guidance of the Building Supervisor, the Plans Examiner reviews construction drawings and supporting documents for residential, multi‑family, and light‑commercial projects to ensure compliance with the State Building Code Act as adopted by Thurston County.

Salary: $5,959.00 – $7,926.00 monthly. Posted until filled, first application review on April 1, 2026.

• Review light commercial, residential, and multifamily construction documents and specifications for compliance with International Building, Mechanical and Fire Codes, Uniform Plumbing Codes, Washington State Energy Codes, Accessibility Codes, 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 with the 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, the public, and design professionals to meet code compliance both in the office and in the field.
• 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 attend pre‑submittal conferences.
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; 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 stay current on codes.

• Working environment – duties are performed indoors and outdoors in the Building Development Center and at job sites; occasional exposure to temperature and other weather extremes.
• Physical demands – frequent standing, sitting, driving, keyboarding; occasional carrying, walking, climbing, and reaching; physical effort required for occasional heavy lifting up to 30 lbs.
• Schedule – Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; work may be required outside assigned hours.
• Essential personnel – may be considered essential personnel to ensure operations of essential functions during an emergency or when the County has suspended operations.
• Travel requirements – occasional travel to attend meetings, trainings, or visit job sites.
• Customer interactions – daily interactions via phone, in‑person, and video with Thurston County staff and members of the public.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a related field.
• Two years of experience as a Plans Examiner, Building, or Combination Inspector and three years of experience in construction or related experience; additional experience may substitute for education on a year‑for‑year basis.
• Certification by the International Codes Council (ICC) as a Commercial, Residential, or Combination Plans Examiner and Commercial, Residential, or Combination Building Inspector.
• Valid Washington State driver’s license or appropriate accommodation.

• Working knowledge of Title 14 codes:
  Building, Existing Building, Residential, Mechanical, Plumbing, Fuel Gas, Fire, Energy, Flood, and related referenced codes.
• Current Professional Engineer or Architect license recognized by Washington State.
• Proficiency in spreadsheets, word processing, and internet research.
• Ability to read and accurately interpret plans and specifications of any complexity and compare them with construction in progress.
• Comprehensive knowledge of building/construction practices and procedures, including mechanical, plumbing, and electrical.
• Ability to analyze, calculate, and evaluate engineering calculations.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret construction documents and specifications.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work assignments.

• Re…