Permit Technician

Overview

Performs difficult clerical and administrative work serving as first contact for customers (citizens, developers, engineers, builders, etc.) regarding development services. Guides internal and external customers with requests for information or services pertaining to development. Serves as liaison between the public and technical/professional staff. Work is performed under general supervision, often using independent judgment to resolve situations. May work as part of a self‑directed work group or team.

May work varied shifts to accommodate customers. Performs other duties as assigned.

• Provides information to customers regarding requirements, policies, and procedures of building permits and related technical services and information
• Handles inquiries from other departments and customers concerning services
• Resolves customer questions and problems following established policies
• Prepares, updates and maintains files and computer records
• Answers telephones and assists callers with application, permit and technical questions and concerns
• Performs data entry, record keeping and billing
• Performs a wide variety of tasks in the Building Safety division including but not limited to issuing construction permits, calculating permit fees, evaluating and verifying all required approvals
• Receives, logs, routes, tracks and maintains accurate computer records on various permits being processed
• Receives and acts on requests to/from inspectors
• Provides clerical assistance to customers with general information about other divisions within the department and/or outside agencies as necessary
• Researches, reviews, and copies various documentation as required

Required:

High school diploma or equivalent

• Required:
  
  Two (2) or more years customer service experience (could be in a variety of settings) and administrative support experience involving clerical and/or information processing duties.
• Preferred:
  Experience related to building or land development issues and application of rules and regulations.

Must possess or be able to acquire appropriate International Code Council (ICC) and Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (VDHCD) certification.

• Thorough knowledge of standard office procedures, practices and equipment
• General knowledge of methods and techniques used in the operation of a computerized permits management or related system
• Some knowledge of community development rules and regulations
• Ability to operate a variety of office equipment including a personal computer and other information processing equipment
• Ability to apply complicated procedures, make decisions based on established regulations and meet procedural time requirements
• Ability to maintain records and generate reports
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions
• Ability to communicate effectively and tactfully with citizens, developers, engineers, builders, County employees and other members of the public
• Skilled in data entry with accuracy and completeness
• Ability to make difficult mathematical computations

Subject to a complete criminal history background search with acceptable results. Must pass a typing test demonstrating at least 40 WPM with no errors. Must also be able to perform the job as described in the Physical and Environmental Demands section of this job description. Must attain qualifications as Permit Technician II and III within a reasonable time as established in the Career Path Plan.

The job involves standing, walking, lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling, reaching, handling, fine dexterity, kneeling, crouching, crawling, bending, twisting, climbing, balancing, vision (correction required), hearing, talking, and foot controls with varying frequency ranging from frequent to occasional. The role may require continuous standing for 5.5 to 8+ hours daily, frequent activity for 2.5 to 5.5 hours daily, or occasional activity up to 2.5 hours daily.

All physical demands must be performed in accordance with the regulations and safety procedures of the department.

The work environment is generally office-based with minimal hazards. The employee may encounter mechanical hazards, dirt and dust, chemical hazards, extreme temperatures, electrical hazards, noise and vibration, fire hazards, fumes and odors, explosives, wetness/humidity, communicable diseases, darkness or poor lighting, and physical danger or abuse. Each factor is typically rare, rarely, or never encountered.

Office Environment.

Office equipment, including computers, scanners, telephone, and fax.