Plans Examiner

Position: Plans Examiner I (Open Until Filled)
Salary: $27.30 - $33.26 Hourly
Location : Clallam County Courthouse, WA
Job Type: Regular Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-25
Department: Department of Community Development (DCD)
Division: Building
Opening Date: 04/22/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: Teamster
Grant Funded: No

Summary
Clallam County is seeking a detail-oriented and technically skilled professional to join our team as a Plans Examiner I. This position performs technical review of architectural and structural plans for residential projects to ensure compliance with the Washington State Building Code and International Building Codes. The role includes interpreting applicable building, plumbing, mechanical, and environmental codes and providing guidance to architects, engineers, contractors, homeowners, and field inspectors.

Working under the direction of the Building Official, the Plans Examiner I applies developing expertise to review plans, interpret specifications, and compare them with construction in progress. This position is part of a career progression series, offering the opportunity to learn the full scope of plan review and assume increasingly complex responsibilities over time. Success in this role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to build effective working relationships with internal staff, industry professionals, and the public.
Next Review of Applications: 6/8/2026
Typical Duties

• Examine and review construction plans for residential structures to verify compliance with all applicable building, plumbing, mechanical, and energy codes.
• Prepare and write comment letters to communicate deficiencies referencing applicable code sections. Communicate with project owners and design teams members as needed to resolve outstanding items.
• Visit construction sites to provide periodic inspections of foundations, framing, plumbing, mechanical, and energy conservation compliance with applicable regulations and the approved plans, and permit documents.
• Answer questions by email, telephone, or in the field regarding: code requirements for construction, structural, life safety, mechanical, plumbing, energy and other construction related questions.
• Operate computer equipment and software to perform plans reviews, generate comment letters, maintain inspection records and notices.
• Maintain knowledge and expertise in construction codes, materials, and techniques.
• Use principles of good customer service, establish, and maintain cooperative, effective working relationships with co-workers, applicants, contractors, and design teams.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including but not limited to being assigned to work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, equalize work periods, or balance the workload.

Education, Training, & Experience

Requires knowledge of the field of assignment sufficient to perform thoroughly and accurately the full scope of responsibility as illustrated by examples in the above job description

Education
Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade (High School Diploma or GED).

Experience

• Possession of a Residential Building Inspector certification from International Code Council (ICC) or equivalent is required. Must have the ability to acquire additional ICC certifications.
• Must have a minimum of two (2) years experience performing building inspections.
• Experience or demonstrated training in the building trades, construction, or a related field
• Proficient regulatory knowledge in all aspects of construction including building structural and life safety, energy conservation, mechanical, and plumbing.
• Must have valid driver's license and good driving history.

Special Classification Requirements:

• ICC certifications for Residential Building Inspector and Residential Plans Examiner within the first year of hire.
• A college degree in architecture or engineering may substitute for Residential Building Inspector and Residential Plans Examiner certifications.

For a complete copy of the job description - click HERE
At Clallam County, we strive to take care of our team! Our employees are the greatest asset of Clallam County, and we take pride in offering a highly competitive…