Permit Technician

City of Blaine; Blaine (MN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Permit Technician to oversee the scheduling of inspections and manage contractor licensing. This role requires strong customer service skills and a thorough understanding of the building permit process. You'll be responsible for responding to inquiries, processing reports, and maintaining accurate records. The position offers a dynamic work environment where your contributions will directly impact the community. If you are detail-oriented and passionate about public service, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 3 years of clerical or administrative experience required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and customer service skills essential.

Responsibilities

• Schedule inspections and manage contractor licensing.
• Respond to public inquiries regarding permits and inspections.

Skills

Office Practices

Building Permit Process

Record Management

Customer Service

Microsoft Office

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

AA Degree in Business

Tools

Microsoft Office

Adobe Acrobat

Bluebeam Software

Job description

Under the direction of the Permit Technician Manager, this position is responsible for scheduling inspections for residential and commercial permits, routing incoming calls to the proper inspector or department, and assigning plan reviews for residential home improvement projects. The role involves responding to the public and contractors in person, by telephone, or by email regarding the permit process, imaged documents, and other informational requests.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. License contractors, oversee and manage the contractor license database, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Stay updated on all State and local licensing requirements.
2. Assign new home/townhome plan reviews, create related Bluebeam sessions, update logs, handle related calls and emails, and manage permit cancellations and fee notifications.
3. Inform the Senior Permit Tech of any permit cancellations for SAC reporting purposes.
4. Process and submit monthly State and Federal Surcharge, Census, and Dodge reports, and manage record retention.
5. Respond to information disclosure requests and other external/internal information requests, saving documents appropriately.
6. Update the Blaine New Construction document, communicate with the Chief Building Official, and maintain records.
7. Process utility connect sheets, inform Senior Permit Tech of SAC payments, and update related fees annually.
8. Provide information to homeowners, contractors, and the public regarding permits, licensing, inspections, and related queries.
9. Maintain knowledge of escrow policies and subdivision requirements.
10. Train counter-help, including new employees, interns, and float employees.
11. Attend conferences and training seminars to maintain Permit Technician certification.
12. Serve as backup for the counter and answer general and scheduling lines as needed.
13. Perform other duties as assigned.

The above tasks are illustrative and not exhaustive. This description is subject to change based on employer needs and position requirements.

Additional Responsibilities

1. Receive and route incoming calls.
2. Assist the public in person, by phone, or email regarding permit requirements and help with registration and permit applications.
3. Process Surcharge Reports.
4. Perform other duties as assigned.

The duties listed are illustrative; the position description may change as needed.

Required Skills and Knowledge

1. Thorough knowledge of office practices and procedures.
2. Understanding of the building permit process, including codes, ordinances, policies, and procedures.
3. Knowledge of record management and retention policies.
4. High customer service skills.
5. Proficiency in computer software (Microsoft Office and IMS).
6. Ability to perform clerical work requiring concentration, organization, and judgment.
7. Effective communication skills with contractors, homeowners, the public, and staff.
8. Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships.
9. Ability to perform tasks efficiently under deadlines.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

1. High school diploma or GED.
2. Three years of clerical, secretarial, or administrative experience.
3. Three years of computer experience, including Microsoft Office.
4. Three years of customer service experience.
5. ICC Permit Technician Certification or ability to obtain within 9 months.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

1. AA degree in business or related field.
2. Experience with a municipality, preferably in Building Inspections.
3. Current Permit Technician Certification.
4. Experience with Adobe Acrobat and Bluebeam Software.

Salary Range: $29.56 - $38.40. Hiring Range: $29.56 - $31.45.