Plans Review Specialist II

City of Atlanta • Atlanta, GA

13d • Onsite

About The Position

The purpose of this job is to review construction plans to ensure compliance with regulatory codes, ordinances, and laws. Duties include but are not limited to approving building plans and specifications; assisting architects and developers with building code conformation; answering inquiries regarding construction materials and procedures; explaining departmental procedures; and processing paperwork.
Work independently or in teams, reporting to the Project Manager.
These are typical responsibilities for this position and should not be construed as exclusive or all inclusive. Independently evaluates and approves building plans and specifications to ensure compliance with city codes and regulations regarding zoning, structural adequacy, life safety, and fire emergency exit configuration. Exercises professional judgment in interpreting and applying regulatory codes, ordinances, and laws to facilitate compliance. Provides expert consultation to architects, engineers, developers, and the public regarding building code requirements and regulatory expectations. Conducts in-depth research and analysis of architectural and engineering materials, life safety codes, and government regulations to inform decision-making. Develops and implements procedural enhancements to streamline plan review processes and improve efficiency. Represents the department in regulatory hearings, appeals, and professional meetings, providing expert testimony as needed. Manages and maintains detailed records, reports, and compliance documentation within the city’s database. Develops training programs and provides guidance to junior staff, ensuring adherence to professional standards and regulatory requirements. Follows standardized procedures, building code regulations, and written instructions to accomplish assigned tasks. Apply organizational policies and codes. May perform other duties as assigned. The above statements reflect the general duties, responsibilities and competencies considered necessary to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the job and should not be considered as a detailed description of all the work requirements of the position. COA may change the specific job duties with or without prior notice based on the needs of the organization.

Requirements

• Advanced knowledge of architectural, structural engineering, and construction principles.
• Expertise in interpreting and enforcing established building and construction codes and regulations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to assess complex design plans and propose regulatory solutions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of providing expert guidance and policy interpretation to diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and discretion in regulatory decision-making.
• Proficiency in regulatory software and database management tools.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Ability to perform the mathematical calculations required by the job.
• Ability to utilize and understand computer applications and techniques required by the job.
• Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize daily assignments and work activities.
• Ability to comprehend and apply regulations and procedures of the department.
• Ability to work under a minimum degree of stress related to duties that require constant attention to detail and tight deadlines.
• Bachelor’s degree in architectural or structural engineering, building construction, or a related field.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in building inspection, plumbing inspection, code compliance, or a related regulatory role.
• At least one (1) year of experience in residential or commercial plan review.
• Valid Georgia driver’s license.
• Demonstrated ability to operate independently and make regulatory decisions requiring advanced knowledge and professional expertise.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced experience in reviewing and interpreting technical drawings and complex construction plans.
• Experience in regulatory policy development and implementation.
• Experience providing expert testimony in regulatory hearings or appeals.
• Strong background in stakeholder engagement and public outreach related to building code compliance.

Responsibilities

• Independently evaluates and approves building plans and specifications to ensure compliance with city codes and regulations regarding zoning, structural adequacy, life safety, and fire emergency exit configuration.
• Exercises professional judgment in interpreting and applying regulatory codes, ordinances, and laws to facilitate compliance.
• Provides expert consultation to architects, engineers, developers, and the public regarding building code requirements and regulatory expectations.
• Conducts in-depth research and analysis of architectural and engineering materials, life safety codes, and government regulations to inform decision-making.
• Develops and implements procedural enhancements to streamline plan review processes and improve efficiency.
• Represents the department in regulatory hearings, appeals, and professional meetings, providing expert testimony as needed.
• Manages and maintains detailed records, reports, and compliance documentation within the city’s database.
• Develops training programs and provides guidance to junior staff, ensuring adherence to professional standards and regulatory requirements.

What This Job Offers

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