Plans Examiner - Residential Building

The City of Richmond, Department of Planning and Development Review is seeking an experienced individual for the position of Plans Examiner - Residential Building.

This class coordinates permit processing activities and reviews plans for compliance with electrical, plumbing, gas, and building construction codes.

Key responsibilities include reviewing submitted plans, interpreting plan information, determining compliance with applicable codes, meeting with engineers, owners, and contractors, preparing letters and reports, coordinating the permit process, and providing customer service. The position may also involve on-site inspections and training of other inspectors.

Supervision exercised/received:

• Exercised:
  No direct supervision of other employees, but may serve as lead worker, assign work and monitor completion.
• Received:
  Typically reports to a unit supervisor.

This opportunity does not exceed a max compensation amount of $74,360 annually.

Class description represents only key areas of responsibilities; specific position assignments may vary.

• Examines and evaluates plans, specs, and other documents submitted by contractors, engineers, and applicants for compliance. Advises applicants of needed changes (in drawings) to satisfy applicable codes. May conduct on-site inspections.
• Meets and consults with project coordinators, contractors, engineers, owners, etc. to discuss city requirements pertaining to specific projects.
• Communicates results of review efforts with project owner, engineer, contractor, etc.
• Prepares letters and reports regarding results of the plan examination efforts and procedures to expedite permit processing.
• Maintains logs, tracking systems, and specialized databases.
• Performs routine administrative duties such as responding to emails/phone calls and providing customer service support related to processing plans and documents.
• Trains inspectors regarding duties and procedures; provides assistance in processing permit applications.

Knowledge (some combination of the following):

• Federal, state, and local building codes
• Construction materials and practices
• Engineering and design standards and practices
• Surveying and drafting concepts/techniques
• Building construction techniques
• Mathematics including Algebra and Geometry
• AutoCAD

Skills (some combination of the following):

• Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Suite
• Drafting and Surveying
• Effective oral and written communication skills

Abilities (some combination of the following):

• Interact with engineers, contractors, and owners to resolve any questions or differences

Minimum Training and

Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, building construction, or related field
• One year of inspection and plan review experience
• An equivalent combination of training and experience (as approved by the department) may be used to meet the minimum qualifications of the classification

Licensing, Certifications and Other Special Requirements:

• Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development certifications within a time frame established by the City:
  Building Plan Examiner, Building Inspector General, and Building Inspector One and Two Family Dwellings
• Employee must complete first attempt at initial certification test (Building Plans Examiner R3 - ICC) within 12 months of hire. If a retest is required, employee must retest and pass required certification prior to the 18-month post-hire deadline.
  • Where required by local policy to have two or more certifications, a technical assistant shall obtain the additional certifications within 3 years from the date of such requirements.
  • Employee are required to participate in additional/ongoing training as mandated by the agency.
• Applicants already DHCD certified, please provide a copy of this certification upon hire.
• Some assignments may require a valid Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record and a valid Commonwealth of Virginia Driver's License within 30 days of hire.