SENIOR PLANS EXAMINER

County Of Elbert Co; Kiowa (CO); On-site; USD 82,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

County Of Elbert Co. is seeking a Senior Plans Examiner in Kiowa, CO to perform advanced plan reviews for compliance with building, fire, and energy codes.

You will interpret complex plans, coordinate with designers, and issue approvals within delegated authority. The role requires a Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or related field, ICC Building Plans Examiner certification, and 5+ years of experience; a valid driver's license is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least five years of progressively responsible experience in plan review, building inspection, or construction management; seven+ years preferred.
• ICC Building Plans Examiner certification required at appointment; additional plans examiner certifications in relevant disciplines preferred.
• Valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record for County duties.
• Maintains required certifications and continuing education to stay current with adopted codes and amendments.

Responsibilities

• Performs complex plan reviews for residential, commercial, and industrial construction for code compliance across adopted building, fire, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, energy, and accessibility codes.
• Reviews architectural and engineering plans, specifications, calculations, and supporting documents.
• Coordinates with applicants, design professionals, and other agencies to resolve code issues.
• Provides plan approval or denial within delegated authority and issues correction notices.
• Documents code deficiencies and the basis for review decisions; reviews resubmittals to verify addressed deficiencies.
• Interprets and applies building codes within delegated authority; refers matters beyond authority as needed.

Education

Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or related field

ICC Building Plans Examiner certification

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

SENIOR PLANS EXAMINER

BUILDING DIVISON RFT Technical KIOWA, CO, US

2 days ago Requisition ID: 1063

Salary Range: $82,000.00 To $110,000.00 Annually

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES

The Principal Plans Examiner performs advanced-level plan review and serves as an authority on building code interpretation, compliance, and enforcement within the authority assigned by the County. The role reviews construction projects for compliance with applicable building codes, ordinances, and state laws, while supporting safe, efficient development.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

TECHNICAL PLAN REVIEW

• Performs complex plan reviews for residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects for compliance with adopted building, fire, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, energy, and accessibility codes, within the County's jurisdiction and the position's assigned authority.
• Reviews architectural and engineering plans, specifications, calculations, and supporting documents.
• Coordinates with applicants, design professionals, and other agencies to resolve code issues.
• Provides plan approval or denial within delegated authority and issues correction notices.
• Documents code deficiencies and the basis for review decisions; reviews resubmittals to verify that identified deficiencies have been addressed.

CODE ADMINISTRATION AND AUTHORITY

• Provides advanced technical interpretation and application of adopted building codes and related regulations within delegated authority; refers matters beyond that authority to the designated Building Official or appropriate decision maker.
• Exercises sound judgment in determinations on code-related disputes and interpretations and documents the basis for those determinations.
• Evaluates requests for alternative materials, methods, and code modifications and makes determinations or recommendations within delegated authority.

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

• Ensures compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to construction and development within the scope of assigned plan review responsibilities.
• Coordinates with fire districts, Public Works, Planning, and other agencies.
• Maintains records and documentation in accordance with legal requirements.

CUSTOMER SERVICE AND STAKEHOLDER COORDINATION

• Provides technical guidance to contractors, developers, architects, engineers, and the public.
• Represents the County in meetings, hearings, and public forums.
• Responds to complex inquiries, complaints, and appeals.
• Explains code requirements and correction notices clearly and consistently without assuming responsibility for project design.

ADMINISTRATIVE FUNCTIONS

• Assists in budget preparation and monitoring for Building Department activities.
• Recommends code updates, ordinance revisions, and policy changes.
• Prepares reports, correspondence, and presentations for leadership and governing bodies.
• Provides technical mentoring and guidance to plan review and inspection staff, as assigned.
• Performs other duties as assigned that are reasonably related to the position.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least five years of progressively responsible experience in plan review, building inspection, or construction management, including experience reviewing complex construction plans. Seven or more years of directly related experience is preferred.
• International Code Council (ICC) Building Plans Examiner certification required at appointment; additional plans examiner certifications in relevant disciplines preferred.
• Valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record for assigned County driving duties.
• Maintains required certifications and completes continuing education to remain current with adopted codes, local amendments, and professional standards.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Extensive knowledge of adopted building codes (IBC, IRC, IECC, IFC, NEC, etc.) and applicable local amendments, within assigned review responsibilities.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and engineering principles.
• Ability to interpret complex plans, specifications, and technical documents.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and make code determinations within delegated authority.
• Proficiency with permitting and plan review software systems.
• Ability to manage competing review priorities, meet established deadlines, maintain accurate records, and communicate effectively in difficult or disputed situations.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work is performed primarily in an office environment with occasional field visits to construction sites.
• May require travel within the County.
• May involve interactions with challenging or high-pressure situations.
• Work includes extended use of computers and review of detailed digital or printed plans. Occasional site visits may involve walking on uneven surfaces and exposure to weather, noise, dust, and active construction. Uses appropriate personal protective equipment and follows County safety procedures.
• Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.