Overview

The purpose of this classification is to review construction plans and related documents to ensure compliance of proposed construction with applicable codes prior to issuance of permits. The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned. Interprets and applies building codes, electrical codes, plumbing codes, mechanical codes, fire prevention codes, life/safety codes, energy codes, accessibility codes, pool codes, and other applicable codes, ordinances, laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures; researches code-related issues in code books as needed; communicates with other plans examiners, building inspectors, customers, or other staff regarding code interpretation; contacts outside agencies to obtain additional opinions/interpretations on questionable code sections. Identifies non-compliance issues and corrections required for plans to achieve compliance with codes; ensures necessary corrections are made to plans and meet compliance prior to issuance of permits. Performs field inspections as required to review construction of buildings, plumbing systems, mechanical systems, gas systems, electrical systems, and related systems in relation to plans/specifications; assists field inspectors as needed. Prepares and maintains records of plan review activities; organizes all documentation; utilizes checklists to facilitate plan review process; summarizes and enters pertinent information such as building type, square footages, occupancy loads, building valuations, or other data into computer system; maintains plan review files, checklists, reference materials, and related correspondence. Assists with preparation of plan review checklists. Provides technical assistance and information concerning code requirements, code interpretation, code compliance, and related issues; discusses construction plans, the permit process, current status of plan review, problem areas, changes, needed corrections, and contractor responsibilities with property owners, developers, contractors, subcontractors, and architects; recommends solutions to problems; responds to questions or complaints, researches problems, and initiates problem resolution; provides information and technical expertise to other staff members; assists front counter staff in explaining relevant information to customers. Coordinates plan reviews, permit processing, and other work activities with other staff members, other Town departments, and outside agencies as appropriate. Participates in the development and adoption of model codes. Reads and interprets construction documents. Prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, plan review checklists, project status reports, or other documents. Receives various forms, reports, correspondence, construction plans, plan revisions, architectural drawings, engineering drawings, electrical diagrams, surveys, soil analyses, energy efficiency reports, gas tables, windload certifications, floodplain development forms, agency approvals, product information, manufacturer installation literature, UL listings, technical reports/articles, trade journals, codes, ordinances, standards, rules, regulations, manuals, reference materials, or other documentation; reviews, completes, processes, forwards or retains as appropriate. Maintains current library of reference materials. Operates a computer to enter, retrieve, review or modify data; verifies accuracy of entered data and makes corrections; utilizes word processing, database, e-mail, Internet, or other software programs including electronic plan review. Operates a variety of equipment and tools associated with work activities, which may include a motor vehicle, drafting instruments, engineer's scale, architect's scale, video camera, calculator, and gen