Plans Examiner I, II, III, IV presso City of Clearwater, FL

About the Department

POSITIONS OPEN UNTIL FILLED. 

Position Duties

• Reviews and evaluates building permit applications and plans to ensure that all information is submitted; conducts detailed and accurate reviews and provides comments to ensure deficiencies and errors are addressed.  
• Interfaces, engages, and communicates with architects, engineers, walk- in customers, and the general public regarding various projects and associated plans and questions.
• Examines construction plans and specifications for code compliance; understands and applies all applicable codes and ordinances; discloses and notifies applicants of code deficiencies.  
• Collaborates with building inspectors on design issues identified in the field. 
• Reviews architectural and engineering plans for permit applications in flood zones; demonstrates strong technical knowledge regarding flood zone requirements and ensures that all permit applications are accurately submitted and reflect important information; maintains, edits, and updates records for flood zone construction projects.    
• Communicates with other City departments responsible for review of plans and specifications in a timely and professional manner. 
• Assists and participates in training of other employees to enhance knowledge and skill when conveying answers and handling other plans-related concerns from the public.
• Computes and determines permit fees; approves or disapproves permit applications and communicates effectively regarding errors or deficiencies. 
• Coordinates office activities related to the issuance of permits; performs various technical and computer work to ensure plans and permits are handled efficiently and professionally.
• Assists with damage assessments when needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Licenses, Certifications, and Equipment:

A valid State driver’s license is required.

A valid Standard Plans Examiner license issued by the State of Florida in one (1) of the following areas: 

• Residential
• Building
• Mechanical
• Electrical  
• Plumbing

Must complete required continuing education to maintain license as required by the State of Florida. 

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Architecture, Building Construction, or related subject, and one (1) year of professional level experience in the field of construction or a related field, building inspection, or plans review, corresponding to the State of Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) licensing category; must meet qualifications as established by the latest revisions of the State of Florida Chapter 468, Florida Statutes, and Division 61G19, Florida Administrative Code; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.   

NOTE: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future visa sponsorship. City of Clearwater will not sponsor employment visas (e.g., H-1B, or any other work authorization status).

Other Qualifications

Knowledge of – 

• Building and related codes
• Florida Statutes and Florida Administrative Code 
• City Ordinances
• Construction practices and methods
• Nationally recognized construction standards (ANSI, ASTM, ACI, AISC, USG, etc.)
• Architectural and engineering principles relating to code compliance and design specifics
• Fundamentals of architecture, construction, and building
• FEMA requirements for construction in flood zones
• Computer systems and related programs
• General office policies and procedures
• Computers and general office equipment

• Interpreting building material and construction standards, plans, blueprints, and specifications
• Recognizing deficiencies on plans and specifications
• Enforcing code requirements with tact and impartiality
• Interpreting and enforcing codes and ordinances
• Managing and reviewing permit applications
• Communicating effectively, verbally and in writing
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships
• Operating a computer and related software