PLANS EXAMINER

Thurston County • Olympia, WA

7d

About The Position

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
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.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or related field.
• Two (2) years of experience as a Plans Examiner, Building or Combination Inspector and three (3) years of experience in construction or related experience.  Additional years of experience may substitute for education on a year for year basis. 
• Must be certified 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 have an appropriate accommodation.

Nice To Haves

• Working knowledge of the following Title 14 codes: Building, Existing Building, Residential, Mechanical, Plumbing, Fuel Gas, Fire, Energy, Flood, and codes referenced within these codes. 
• Current Professional Engineer or Architect license recognized by Washington State. 
• Proficient in the use of spread sheets, word processing and internet research. 
• Ability to read and accurately interpret plans and specifications of any complexity and to 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Benefits

• Work-Life Balance: We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle.
• Plan For Your Future: As a member of our team, you will enjoy great employee benefits, including a retirement plan, pre-tax savings accounts, as well as comprehensive health care and dental/vision care for you and your family.
• Paid Leave: Full-time regular employees earn paid vacation in addition to paid holidays
• Robust Training Program: Employees are encouraged to attend County paid training to help them further their career, learn new skill sets, and stay on top of emerging trends in our industry. We also encourage our staff to participate in professional organizations and attend conferences.
• Flexible Work Schedules: Some of the options that employees may take advantage of include alternative or compressed schedules and/or remote working.
• Deferred Compensation: The County offers 3 voluntary deferred compensation plans for employees who would like to set aside additional deferred tax dollars into a retirement savings plan.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Employees can take advantage of Section 125 flexible spending accounts for out-of-pocket health care and daycare expenses with pre-tax dollars.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness: This is a federal program which allows full-time public service employees who have made qualifying payments for certain loans, to get their student loans repaid.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level