Building Plans Examiner

City of Avondale, AZ • Full-time • Avondale, AZ, US • 15h ago

The first review of applications will be on Monday, April 6, 2026, and weekly thereafter.

Reviews residential construction documents and may participate in the review of commercial and tenant improvement construction documents, as assigned, for compliance with adopted building codes, local ordinances, and applicable federal and state regulations. Examines architectural, structural, life-safety, accessibility, energy conservation, and building system plans to ensure compliance with the City of Avondale adopted International Codes, National Electrical Code, and locally adopted amendments.

Provides professional and technical assistance to architects, engineers, contractors, developers, property owners, and City staff regarding code requirements, plan review procedures, permit processing, and code interpretation.

Coordinates plan review activities with other City departments/divisions and regulatory agencies including planning, engineering, fire, public works, and utilities as required to ensure compliance with applicable development regulations.

Provides customer service at the public permit counter, including answering technical building code questions, reviewing and qualifying submittals, processing over-the-counter permits, and assisting applicants through the permitting and plan review process.

Performs work under the direction of the Chief Building Official and in coordination with the Senior Building Plans Examiner, who provides technical guidance, oversight, and review of complex or commercial plan review activities. Exercises professional judgment in the interpretation and application of adopted codes and City regulations within the scope of assigned responsibilities.

Reviews residential construction documents and may participate in the review of commercial and tenant improvement construction documents, as assigned, including architectural, structural, life-safety, accessibility, and energy compliance plans for new construction, additions, alterations, and renovations to ensure compliance with adopted building codes, City ordinances, and applicable regulations.

Examines construction drawings, specifications, calculations, and supporting documentation for compliance with the International Codes, National Electrical Code, and locally adopted amendments. Evaluates occupancy classifications, building area and height limitations, structural requirements, fire-resistance ratings, means of egress, accessibility provisions, and building system requirements.

Identifies code deficiencies, prepares written correction notices, and communicates required revisions to applicants. Reviews revised plans and approves or denies plans in accordance with established procedures and applicable regulations. Coordinates with permit staff to facilitate permit processing and issuance.

Provides technical guidance and interpretation of building codes, construction standards, and permit requirements to architects, engineers, contractors, developers, property owners, and the general public.

Responds to inquiries regarding plan review procedures, code requirements, and regulatory compliance through written correspondence, electronic communication, telephone contact, and in-person meetings.

Participates in discussions with design professionals to clarify code requirements and resolve plan review issues. Conducts field visits when necessary to verify existing conditions or assist inspectors with code interpretation and plan clarification.

Maintains accurate records of plan review activities, permit documentation, and project correspondence using permit tracking and electronic plan review systems.

Reviews and processes supporting documentation submitted with permit applications including engineering reports, geotechnical reports, energy compliance documentation, product approvals, special inspection programs, and other technical materials.

Ensures project documentation is maintained in accordance with City policies and public records retention requirements.

Provides assistance and staffing coverage at the public permit counter as needed. Assists customers with permit applications, plan submittals, and building code inquiries.

Performs over-the-counter plan review for qualifying projects. Guides applicants through the permit process and coordinates with other departments to obtain required approvals.

Assists with Public Records requests by locating and reviewing requested documentation in accordance with applicable laws and City policies.

Provides technical support to building inspectors regarding approved plans, code interpretations, and construction document clarification.

Assists the Chief Building Official with research related to code interpretation, permit valuation review, and administrative determinations. Performs other related duties as assigned.

To view the full job description and learn more about the responsibilities and qualifications, please click to view the Class Specification here.High School Diploma or GED equivalency is required.

Additional coursework or education in architecture, engineering, construction management, building inspection technology, or a closely related field is desirable. Knowledge of building construction methods, materials, and general construction practices as they relate to residential and commercial construction is required. General knowledge of building codes and construction regulations is desirable. Familiarity with the family of model codes published by the International Code Council and the National Electrical Code is preferred.

Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in residential and commercial construction, building inspection, plan review, architecture, engineering, construction management, or a closely related field.

Experience reviewing construction drawings, interpreting building codes, and evaluating technical construction documents is highly desirable.

Municipal or private company building plan review, inspections, or code enforcement experience is preferred.

Possess, or obtain within six (6) months of hire, the International Code Council (ICC) Residential Plans Examiner (R3) certificate.

Possession of additional International Code Council (ICC) certifications, such as Building Plans Examiner (B3), Building Inspector or Combination Inspector, is desirable.

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