Plans Examiner

Northwest Employment Works; Northwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Pension plan

Health, vision, and dental coverage

Paid vacation & holidays

EFAP

Tuition reimbursement

Recognition culture

Job summary

The City of Thunder Bay is seeking a Plans Examiner to review building permit applications, interpret the Ontario Building Code, and assist applicants in understanding regulatory requirements.

You will ensure timely permit reviews, collaborate with homeowners, contractors, designers, and developers, and help maintain compliance with zoning and building standards while contributing to a culture of respect and service to the community.

Qualifications

• Diploma in architectural technology with minimum 3–5 years’ Ontario Building Code experience in building design.
• Equivalent education/experience combination accepted.
• Successful completion of Ontario Ministry/Municipal Affairs and Housing examination program related to General Legal, Small Buildings and Large Buildings.

Responsibilities

• Review all building permit plans and drawings under the Ontario Building Code and applicable laws.
• Assess compliance with Zoning By-law and perform basic zoning interpretations.
• Make permit decisions or non-issuance determinations and manage permit applications through to issuance or cancellation.
• Provide information to developers, homeowners, and the public on building regulations.

Skills

Attention to detail

Regulatory interpretation

Communication

Education

Diploma in architectural technology

Related field degree/diploma

Job description

Review Plans. Apply Expertise. Support Development

At the City of Thunder Bay, Our City Runs on People Like You. Together, we are building a workplace where everyone belongs—where your technical expertise, attention to detail, and knowledge of the Ontario Building Code help support efficient permit review and the delivery of building services to our community.

Here, you will review building permit applications, interpret and apply regulatory requirements, and you’ll assist homeowners, contractors, designers, and developers in understanding regulatory requirements and navigating the building permit process. You’ll be part of a workplace that values respect, fosters growth, and promotes a culture of diversity, well‑being, and collaboration.

Thunder Bay offers more than a fulfilling career. With its natural beauty, affordability, and strong sense of community, it’s a city where you can grow personally and professionally.

Where You’ll Make a Difference Every Day

As a Plans Examiner, you’ll play a key role in the building permit process by reviewing applications, interpreting technical requirements, and helping applicants navigate regulatory standards. Your work will support consistent, timely permit review and help ensure applications meet established building and zoning requirements.

Whether you live in Thunder Bay, you’re looking to return, or excited to make the City your new home, join a team where your skills, expertise, and presence is recognized, and make a real impact to our community

How You’ll Support the Team

In this role, you will review building permit applications, apply regulatory requirements, and provide technical information to support the delivery of building services. You will also have the following accountabilities:

• Review all plans and drawings and all other information submitted in association with building permit applications, within the context of the requirements of the Ontario Building Code and all other applicable law.
• Review building permit applications for compliance with the Zoning By-law and make basic zoning interpretations.
• Make determinations with respect to building permit applications; issue permits or respond appropriately to applicants regarding non‑issuance of permits.
• Assume responsibility for building permit applications until the permit is issued or the application is cancelled.
• Provide information to the development community and the general public on matters relating to buildings.
• Perform building inspections and obtain compliance with the Ontario Building Code, when required, in order to address work load issues within the Building Section’s Inspections Unit.
• Compile information and maintain databases.
• Assign new street addresses.

What You Can Count On With Us

We’re proud to offer a workplace where your well‑being, growth, and sense of purpose come first. As a Plans Examiner, you’ll enjoy:

• A competitive salary that reflects your expertise
• A matching pension plan to help you build long‑term financial security
• Comprehensive health, vision, and dental coverage, plus life insurance for peace of mind
• Generous paid vacation and holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave days when you need more time off
• Access to a confidential Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) and wellness initiatives to support your overall health
• Leadership development and tuition reimbursement programs, so you can continue to grow your skills and career
• A culture of recognition and appreciation, with staff events and programs that celebrate your contributions

What You’ll Bring to the Team

Here’s what will help you succeed as the Plans Examiner:

• Diploma in architectural technology together with a minimum of three years’ experience working with the Ontario Building Code in building design, or a diploma or degree in a directly related field together with a minimum of five years’ experience working with the Ontario Building Code in building design; or
• Equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Successful completion of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing examination program relating to "General Legal", "Small Buildings" and "Large Buildings"

Grow Your Expertise With Us- Apply Today

Belonging, Inclusion, and Your Privacy

The City of Thunder Bay is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minority groups, women, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. We are committed to a recruitment process and work environment that is inclusive and barrier‑free.

If you need an accommodation during any part of the recruitment process, let us know — we will work with you to meet your needs.

For privacy and fairness, please do not include photos, ID cards, driver’s licences, or police record checks with your application. These documents will only be requested if you’re successful.