Combination Plans Examiner (CE) (Level 4)

About the Department

Individual is responsible for reviewing construction documents for compliance with applicable County and State of Ohio building codes and provides guidance to staff, contractors, and the public regarding code requirements. Individual reports to the Chief Building Official.

Position Duties

· High School diploma or GED AND must possess a Level 4 State of Ohio Combination Plans Examiner (CE) certification.

· Must possess a State of Ohio Residential/Limited Commercial (RLC) (LVL) or the ability to obtain one within 12 months of employment.

· Must possess a valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.

· Must meet and maintain qualifications for driving on County business at all times, including insurability.

· All required licenses and certifications must be maintained as a condition of continued employment.

Minimum Qualifications

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

· Reviews construction documents for County and State of Ohio code compliance prior to issuance of a plan approval;

· Addresses questions relating to compliance with codes of County, both over the phone and in person;

· Researches code related questions and provides responses to both internal and external customers;

· Supports buildings regulations programs and other programs by working with local agencies attending meetings, and performing a variety of public relations duties;

· Devises correspondence, completing forms and developing reports associated with Building Safety operation;

· Issues plan approvals or identifies deficiencies and communicates required corrections to applicants in accordance with applicable codes;

· Coordinates with inspectors and other internal staff to ensure consistency between plan review, permitting, and field inspection processes.

· Reviews plans as part of the permitting process and ensures required documentation is complete prior to permit issuance;

· Documents plan review comments, approvals, and corrections in applicable systems to maintain accurate and complete records;

· Maintains current knowledge of applicable building codes, regulations, and industry standards and applies updates to plan review practices;

· Handles client complaints and public inquiries regarding programs;

· Safely operates a motor vehicle to perform job duties;

· Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance;

· Attends various training sessions, conferences, video conferences, and workshops;

· Holds as confidential, all aspects of the job;

· Performs typing, word processing, and related computer operations;

· Works outside of typical work schedule/business hours as required; and

· Other duties as assigned.

NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Performs related non-essential functions required.

I. JOB REQUIREMENTS

Equipment: Ability to operate a variety of equipment such as computer, copier, scanner, iPad/tablet, telephone, calculator, FAX machine, small hand tools, probe, tape measure, and other equipment necessary to perform duties. Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle is required.

Critical Skills/Expertise: 

· Thorough knowledge of applicable County and State of Ohio building codes and the ability to interpret and apply code requirements to construction plans and permitting processes;

· Knowledge of structural engineering principals, construction methods, materials, and terminology;

· Ability to read, analyze, and interpret blueprints, plans, and technical documents;

· Ability to apply critical thinking and analytical skills to define problems, evaluate information, and make sound decisions; 

· Extensive knowledge of and ability to apply program policies;

· Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with internal and external customers, both orally and in writing, including explaining technical information in a clear and understandable manner;

· Ability to work effectively with clients who may be upset, distraught, irate, emotionally or mentally or otherwise unable to function within reasonable range of constructive behaviors;

· Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and maintain accuracy in a fast-paced environment;

· Ability to organize, document, and maintain large volumes of information and paperwork;

· Ability to effectively program, plan independently and in collaboration with other staff units and outside agencies;

· Organize and prioritize work assignments, multi task with accurate focus and refocus in a fast-paced environment;

· Ability to provide effective customer service and respond to inquiries, concerns, and complaints in a professional and constructive manner; 

· Proficiency in the use of computer programs such as, but not limited to, Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and agency specific programs;

· Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle in both normal and inclement weather, as well as during daytime and nighttime conditions;

· Proficiency in grammar, writing, mathematical skills, spelling, and punctuation; 

· Thorough knowledge, adherence and aptitude to follow safety policies, procedures and practices; 

· Thorough knowledge, adherence and aptitude to follow federal, state, county, and department policies and procedures, laws and regulations;

II. DIFFICULTY OF WORK: Work consists of complex, varied, standardized and non-standardized tasks requiring application of numerous laws, rules, regulations, codes, and procedures. Work requires the analysis of detailed construction documents, application of technical knowledge, and the exercise of independent judgement in determining compliance with applicable building codes. Work requires the interpretation and application of multiple, interrelated codes, regulations, and procedures in complex or non-routine situations. The individual must remain current on changes to codes and regulations and apply those changes to plan review processes. Work involves problem-solving in situations where information may be incomplete, conflicting, or require interpretation of technical standards. 

III. RESPONSIBILITY: Supervisor provides general guidance, allowing the individual to plan and carry out assignments with a high degree of independence. The individual exercises independent judgement in reviewing construction documents, applying applicable codes, and making determinations regarding compliance and plan approval. The individual is responsible for prioritizing work, managing multiple assignments, and coordinating with staff, inspectors, and external stakeholders to support the permitting and plan review process. Errors in work may result in non-compliant or unsafe structures, delays in project approvals, potential legal or financial liability, and diminished public trust in the department.

IV. PERSONAL WORK RELATIONSHIPS: Contact is with co-workers, inspectors, other County departments, contractors, design professionals, employees from public and private sector organizations and the public. The purpose of these contacts is to exchange information, provide technical guidance on code requirements, coordinate plan review, and permitting activities, and respond to questions or concerns regarding Building Safety programs. 

V. PHYSICAL EFFORT AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Physical Requirements: The physical requirements of the position are identified as sedentary work, which may require the lifting of up to twenty-five (25) pounds.

Physical Activity: The physical activity of the position require: manual dexterity, talking, hearing, listening, reaching, and moving around. During field/site visits the individual may be required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach, walk, lift and grasp. 

Visual Activity: The position requires the ability to view and analyze detailed documents, plans, and computer screens, as well as operate equipment and perform work in both office and field settings. 

Job Location: The individual will work primarily inside and usually is not exposed to adverse environmental conditions. During field/site visits the individual will be exposed to temperatures below 32 degrees and above 100 degrees for periods of more than one hour. Individual may also be exposed to noise and vibration as well as physical hazards. Individual may be exposed to atmospheric conditions such as fumes, dusts, odors, mist, gases, poor ventilation and oil.