Plans Examiner: Building Codes & Inspections

County of Thurston; Olympia (WA); On-site; USD 67,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

The County of Thurston's Community Planning and Economic Development department seeks a Plans Examiner to review construction drawings for compliance with the State Building Code Act as adopted by Thurston County. Under the Building Supervisor, you will assess residential, multifamily, and light commercial projects and coordinate permit processes.

This role requires ICC certifications, strong interpretation of codes, and effective communication with staff and design professionals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or related field.
• Two years as Plans Examiner, Building or Combination Inspector; three years in construction or related field.
• ICC certification as Commercial, Residential, or Combination Plans Examiner and Commercial, Residential, or Combination Building Inspector.
• Valid Washington State Driver's License.

Responsibilities

• Review light commercial, residential, and multifamily construction documents and specifications for compliance to International Building, Mechanical and Fire Codes, Uniform Plumbing Codes, Washington State Energy Codes, Accessibility Codes, Regulations and the Thurston County Code for Special Flood Hazard Areas.
• Review and check engineering calculations submitted by engineers and architects. Review energy code forms and documentation for compliance to Washington State Energy Code.
• Review new or alternative construction techniques for compliance with alternate methods allowed under the code.
• Provide technical consultation, code interpretations, and communicate code requirements to internal staff, public, and design professionals to meet code compliance both in the office and field environment.
• Coordinate approval of non-residential projects with other departments having jurisdiction. Process and monitor applications, issue or deny permits, and schedule building inspections at different stages of construction. Assist in the investigation of code violations.
• Prepare comments for proposed projects and attends pre-submittal conferences.
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing and establish and maintain courteous and respectful working relationships with other departments, architects, engineers, contractors, builders, and the public. Enforce regulations with firmness, tact, and impartiality.
• Maintain certifications for employment; attend workshops and read technical literature to keep current on codes.

Skills

Code knowledge

Plan interpretation

Engineering calculations

Construction documents

Excel

Word processing

Internet research

Prioritization

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or related field

Professional Engineer (PE) or Architect license

Job description

The County of Thurston's Community Planning and Economic Development department seeks a Plans Examiner to review construction drawings for compliance with the State Building Code Act as adopted by Thurston County. Under the Building Supervisor, you will assess residential, multifamily, and light commercial projects and coordinate permit processes.

This role requires ICC certifications, strong interpretation of codes, and effective communication with staff and design professionals.