Plans Examiner

Under direction of the Building Official, this position is responsible for performing highly technical Code review of plans and specifications for compliance with the California Building Codes and the Montclair Municipal Code; ensuring the completeness of applications and supporting documentation; issuing permits after assurance that all applicable Code regulations have been met; preparing written reports and keeping records regarding plan reviews and inspections, processing plans and building permit applications; assisting and advising contractors, architects, and the public on Code interpretation and answers general Code questions;  providing supervision and training to the Building Inspector(s); and conducting field inspections of buildings during construction.

Accepts permit applications and performs initial review of all applications for compliance with requirements of a completed permit application; records permit applications and routes to the appropriate departments and agencies for review; tracks and answers questions as to status of permit applications; contacts applicants when permits are ready to issue; reviews architectural drawings and specifications for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with City adopted codes and local ordinances; consults with contractors, engineers, architects and the general public concerning the acceptability of drawings submitted for approval; suggests plan changes to applicants in order to bring drawings and specifications into compliance with City building codes and ordinances; advises other City inspectors in the resolution of complex building and accessibility problems; assists in establishing and/or revising departmental policies due to changes in methods of construction or field applications of the codes; deals courteously and tactfully with City personnel, architects, contractors, builders, and the general public on building requirements and restrictions; checks reports and records of inspections; maintains plan check area; issues building permits and verifies state contractors' licenses and Workers' Compensation insurance prior to issuing permits; responsible for plan check activities and office routine; prepares documents for storage and retrieves them for public information purposes; researches and prepares reports, correspondence and other documents;  answers electronic and telephone inquiries related to general construction and building code matters; calculates building permit, sewer, and related fees; performs work with considerable technical independence and judgment in seeking compliance with required codes; and performs related work as required.

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

This class reports to the Building Official and may also receive assignments from the Community Development Director.  This is not a management classification, but it does require the use of prudent judgment and rational analysis of problems related to building construction; in particular, technical code information to be communicated to the field inspector either verbally or by plans for efficient inspections and code compliance.

Knowledge of:

Current building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and housing codes and ordinances; proper inspection methods; principles of building construction and plan review; and disabled access requirements and California Energy Commission Standards of Title 24.

Skills/Ability to:

Discern Code deviations in drawings; read and interpret complex plans and technical material; convey ideas and information effectively, both orally and in writing; analyze construction problems and recommend acceptable alternative solutions; apply technical knowledge in examining plans to identify materials, identify construction processes or concepts that may not comply with Code requirements; deal tactfully with contractors, property owners and the general public; creatively solve problems by gathering relevant information to solve vaguely defined practical problems;  possess good communication skills; work independently on a number of tasks simultaneously; show proficiency in composing field reports legibly and writing letters and reports; read and interpret legal descriptions and complex plans and maps; establish and maintain effective working relations with department personnel; and  possess proficiency in computer, word processing, and custom software applications. 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Graduation from high school or possession of a G.E.D. and a minimum of two years of experience performing duties equivalent to the class of Plan Checker, including the review of commercial, industrial, and complex residential building plans is required.  An Associate of Science (A.S.) Degree in construction inspection or closely related field, and/or certification as a Certified Accessibility Specialist (CASp) is desirable.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting including use of standard office equipment, including a computer; to operate a motor vehicle; to visit various City sites; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. May be exposed to outside weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, rain, and other conditions.  Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 50 pounds.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

LICENSE

Possession of a valid California driver license, proof of insurability, and possession of an I.C.C. Plans Examiner Certificate and an I.C.C. Building Inspector are required.  An I.C.C. Combination Inspector is preferred.

Salary : $6,286 - $7,641