Plans Examiner

Kootenai-County,-Id; Coeur d'Alene (ID); On-site; USD 41,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Free medical clinic

Paid time off

PERSI retirement

Career growth

Job summary

Kootenai County in Coeur d’Alene, ID is seeking a Plans Examiner to review construction plans, ensure compliance with building, fire, and energy codes, and assist with permitting. You will interpret complex plans, advise stakeholders, and stay current with evolving building methods.

Ideal candidates hold a Bachelor’s in a related field with 2+ years of experience and ICC certifications. The role includes a strong benefits package, retirement plan, and growth opportunities within the County.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
• Valid driver’s license
• Two ICC Certifications (any of the listed): ICC Building Plans Examiner; ICC Residential & Commercial Building Inspector; ICC Commercial Energy Inspector & Plans Examiner; ICC Residential Energy Inspector/Plans Examiner.

Responsibilities

• Review construction plans (residential to industrial) for compliance with building, fire/life safety, energy, and accessibility codes.
• Provide technical expertise during pre-application meetings and throughout the permitting process.
• Assist field inspectors in resolving complex construction challenges.
• Draft clear, actionable plan review comments for architects, engineers, and contractors.
• Maintain accurate records in the County’s permit tracking system.
• Calculate project valuations and permit fees.
• Communicate directly with customers—both at the counter and over the phone to guide them through permitting and code requirements.
• Conduct inspections of new construction, additions, and alterations.
• Stay current with evolving codes, materials, and construction methods.

Skills

Building codes

Fire codes

Energy codes

Plan review

Construction safety

Clear communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction, Engineering, or Architecture

Minimum 2 years of relevant experience

Job description

Plans Examiner

Are you a detail-driven professional with a passion for construction, safety, and code compliance? We’re looking for a skilled Plans Examinerto join our Community Development team.

In this dynamic role, you’ll play a critical part in ensuring residential, commercial, and industrial projects meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and compliance.

Why You’ll Love This Opportunity:

• Competitive Pay: $30.01 to $35.66 per hour depending on experience
• Amazing Benefits: Enjoy an exceptional benefits package, including health care for eligible employees and their dependents through our free medical clinic, offering primary care, medications, lab services, and more.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Earn up to 8 hours of vacation each month, with increases based on your years of service. We believe in giving you time to relax and recharge!
• Secure Your Future: Benefit from a strong retirement plan through the Public Employees Retirement System of Idaho (PERSI), so you can feel confident about your future.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for advancement and eligibility for public student loan forgiveness.

Ideal candidates will have:

• Strong knowledge of building, fire, and energy codes.
• Experience reviewing construction plans and understanding structural design.
• Ability to interpret complex plans and communicate technical information clearly.
• Knowledge of construction materials, methods, and safety practices.
• A collaborative, customer-focused mindset.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience (or equivalent combination of education and experience)

Certifications & Requirements

• Valid driver’s license

Any combination of two ICC Certifications as listed below:

• ICC Building Plans Examiner
• ICC Residential & Commercial Building Inspector
• ICC Commercial Energy Inspector & Plans Examiner
• ICC Residential Energy Inspector/Plans Examiner

What You’ll Do:

• Review construction plans (residential to industrial) for compliance with building, fire/life safety, energy, and accessibility codes
• Provide technical expertise during pre-application meetings and throughout the permitting process.
• Assist field inspectors in resolving complex construction challenges.
• Draft clear, actionable plan review comments for architects, engineers, and contractors.
• Maintain accurate records in the County’s permit tracking system.
• Calculate project valuations and permit fees.
• Communicate directly with customers—both at the counter and over the phone to guide them through permitting and code requirements.
• Conduct inspections of new construction, additions, and alterations.
• Stay current with evolving codes, materials, and construction methods.
• Take a closer look at the full job description to see if this role is the right fit for you.

Why You’ll Love Working Here:

You’ll be working in Kootenai County, one of the most picturesque places in northern Idaho! Nestled among scenic mountains and over 20 pristine lakes, our county is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. Located in Coeur d'Alene, you’ll enjoy a low crime rate, access to stunning natural beauty, and a peaceful, friendly community—making it the ideal place to work and live.

Questions? Reach out to our Human Resources team at [phone] or email [e-mail].

Equal Opportunity Employer/Vets Preference/Drug-Free Workplace