Plans Examiner (Plans Examination Engineer II)
King County
Seattle, WA
Full-time
Engineering
Posted on January 11, 2025
Salary
$46.39 - $58.80 Hourly
Location
WA 98057-2906, WA
Job Type
Career Service, Full Time, 40 hrs/week
Job Number
2025VS23635
Department
DLS - Dept. of Local Services
Division
Permitting
Opening Date
01/10/2025
Closing Date
1/26/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit
C1 : PROTEC17-DES, DLS, DNRP
Full- or Part-Time
Full Time
Hours/Week
40 hours/week
In order to hire and maintain a quality workforce that reflects the diversity of the community and works well within our True North values-based organization, the Permitting Division of the Department of Local Services (DLS) is accepting applications for the position of Plans Examiner (Plans Examination Engineer II).
The Plans Examiner will perform plan examination of building plans and supporting documentation for structures and developments to ensure compliance with structural, fire/life safety, energy, accessibility, and other county, state, and federal building code regulations. This person provides direct service by conducting pre-application and construction consultation meetings, researching code requirements, and permit histories.
About the Department of Local Services:
King County is the local service provider for the roughly one quarter-million people who live in the unincorporated areas of the county; collectively, these communities would be the second largest city in the state. The Department of Local Services includes a Director's Office, the Road Services, and the Permitting Division. Together, this department provides a single executive point of accountability for delivering local services to all unincorporated areas.
To learn more about the Permitting Division please visit our website at King County Permits .
Our commitment to Equity, Racial and Social Justice: The Department of Local Services is deeply dedicated to fostering equity, racial and social justice in every aspect of our work. We're committed to our " True North " values which ensures every person has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential and forms the core of our mission and purpose. Our pledge is to cultivate, embrace, and celebrate the distinct experiences, viewpoints, and perspectives of our people, partners, and the communities we serve. Through this work, we dismantle systemic barriers, address inequities, and actively confront prejudices and biases. We acknowledge this journey is ongoing, and we remain steadfast in our efforts to create a positive impact for our employees and communities alike.
Applying equity, racial and social justice principles is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role, you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of the work. As a Plans Examiner, you will:
Minimum Qualifications:
Applicants who pass the initial screening will be invited to participate in a virtual interview the week of February 3, 2024.
This recruitment may be used to fill vacancies for up to 6 months, including career service, short-term temporary (STT), term-limited temporary (TLT) and/or special duty assignment (SDA) opportunities for current King County career service employees who have passed their probationary period.
Who May Apply: This position is open to all qualified applicants. First consideration will be given to current PROTEC17 members in the same classification that are eligible for lateral transfer.
Forms and Materials: A completed King County Application is required. We highly recommend that you also provide a resume and cover letter (no more than 2 pages) summarizing how you meet the experience, qualifications, knowledge, and skills for the position.
Selection Process: Applicants will be screened for clarity, completeness, and competitiveness. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in one or more interviews. Interviews will be conducted via Teams. Reference checks and file reviews will be conducted.
Work Schedule: The work week is normally Monday through Friday, 7.00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., but may at times require work outside of normal business hours. This position is non-exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standard Act and is eligible for overtime pay, with prior supervisor approval.
Emergency Designation Status: This position has been designated as:
Non-Mission Critical - Employees who staff county functions or services that may be delayed, suspended, or diverted in an emergency while essential functions are prioritized Mission Critical.
Unless otherwise directed by the County Executive, department director or agency head, all employees, regardless of designation, are expected to report to work or request leave during an emergency or inclement weather. For more detailed information, please visit HR Policy County Operations During Emergency Situations and the King County Guidelines for Workforce Management in an Emergency .
Union Membership: PROTEC17
Teleworking Requirement:
This is a hybrid position. The work associated with this position will be performed by teleworking, field work, onsite work, and in-person meetings as needed. The responsibilities of this position may include regular and ongoing in-office work involving in-person customer service in accordance with the division's available customer service options.
Employees will have access to shared workspaces at various King County facilities.
Employees must reside in Washington State and within a reasonable distance to their King County worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements.
Employees will be provided with a County issued laptop and must maintain a workspace with an internet connection (access may be supplemented in some situations) where they can reliably perform work and remain available and responsive during scheduled work hours.
King County has a robust collection of tools and resources to support working remotely. The individual selected for this opportunity will be joining an innovative and progressive team that is redefining how we work as we transition to the department's hybrid environment.
Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers.
Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference? Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play.
Guided by our " True North ", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion, and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity. Equitable recruiting, support, and retention is how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles--we are one team; we solve problems; we focus on the customer; we drive for results; we are racially just; we respect all people; we lead the way; and we are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, and veterans.
King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.
To Apply:
If you are interested in pursuing this position, please follow the application instructions carefully. If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process or if you have questions, please contact your recruiter listed on this job announcement.
If you have any questions regarding this recruitment, please contact Vivienne Swai, HR Analyst, by email at vswai@kingcounty.gov , or by phone at 206-477-1538.
King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs:
This is a general description of the benefits offered to eligible King County employees, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA prevails.
NOTE: Benefits for Term Limited Temporary (TLT) or Short Term Temporary (STT) positions, including leave eligibility and/or participation in the pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, will vary based upon the terms and details of the position.Short Term Temporary positions are not eligible for an ORCA transit pass.
For inquiries about the specifics of this position, please contact the recruiter identified on this job posting.
$46.39 - $58.80 Hourly
Location
WA 98057-2906, WA
Job Type
Career Service, Full Time, 40 hrs/week
Job Number
2025VS23635
Department
DLS - Dept. of Local Services
Division
Permitting
Opening Date
01/10/2025
Closing Date
1/26/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit
C1 : PROTEC17-DES, DLS, DNRP
Full- or Part-Time
Full Time
Hours/Week
40 hours/week
Summary
In order to hire and maintain a quality workforce that reflects the diversity of the community and works well within our True North values-based organization, the Permitting Division of the Department of Local Services (DLS) is accepting applications for the position of Plans Examiner (Plans Examination Engineer II).
The Plans Examiner will perform plan examination of building plans and supporting documentation for structures and developments to ensure compliance with structural, fire/life safety, energy, accessibility, and other county, state, and federal building code regulations. This person provides direct service by conducting pre-application and construction consultation meetings, researching code requirements, and permit histories.
About the Department of Local Services:
King County is the local service provider for the roughly one quarter-million people who live in the unincorporated areas of the county; collectively, these communities would be the second largest city in the state. The Department of Local Services includes a Director's Office, the Road Services, and the Permitting Division. Together, this department provides a single executive point of accountability for delivering local services to all unincorporated areas.
To learn more about the Permitting Division please visit our website at King County Permits .
Our commitment to Equity, Racial and Social Justice: The Department of Local Services is deeply dedicated to fostering equity, racial and social justice in every aspect of our work. We're committed to our " True North " values which ensures every person has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential and forms the core of our mission and purpose. Our pledge is to cultivate, embrace, and celebrate the distinct experiences, viewpoints, and perspectives of our people, partners, and the communities we serve. Through this work, we dismantle systemic barriers, address inequities, and actively confront prejudices and biases. We acknowledge this journey is ongoing, and we remain steadfast in our efforts to create a positive impact for our employees and communities alike.
Job Duties
Applying equity, racial and social justice principles is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role, you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of the work. As a Plans Examiner, you will:
- Review of building and related permit applications documents to ensure construction proposals meet code requirements for life and safety, structural integrity, energy performance, accessibility, mechanical and other applicable codes.
- Review structural plans and calculations to verify conformity with structural engineering principles; and perform structural engineering analysis of designs and related features of construction plans.
- Performs site observation visits to evaluate potential construction conflicts and/or general construction progress towards complying with state codes.
- Provide public with information on codes, regulations, and permit requirements.
- Receive and respond to complaints about buildings/construction from citizens, other agencies and jurisdictions, King County Council, and Executive staff.
- Interpret and apply codes and regulations for architects, engineers, developers, contractors, and property owners.
- Provide direct customer assistance for the public, design professionals, property owners on building code questions and their application and the permit process.
- Offer alternatives and initiate problem-solving conferences with owners, contractors, and design professionals.
- Communicate on the job in ways that reflects well upon King County, the County Executive, the department, and the incumbent.
- Exhibit and support a culture of superior customer service.
- Scrupulously honor commitments made to customers and others.
- Other duties as assigned.
Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills
Minimum Qualifications:
- Construction or plans examination experience or education and experience in a related field such as architecture, engineering, or construction management.
- Demonstrated experience in the application and interpretation of national, state, and local building and fire codes and standards.
- Knowledge of the permitting process.
- Knowledge of structural materials, systems, and engineering.
- Skill in reading, interpreting, and explaining construction documents, specifications, codes, ordinances, and policies.
- Conducting meetings with builders, professionals, or other customers to review construction, code, or other technical requirements.
- Handle multiple competing priorities and producing quality detailed work within tight timeframes.
- Working effectively and cooperatively with a variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Must work well in a fast-paced, results oriented, team environment with the ability to think quickly and independently.
- Strong communication skills, collaborative working style, and the ability to handle stressful situations in a positive manner.
- Experience as a plans examiner in reviewing both residential and commercial projects.
- ICC certification as a building inspector and/or plans examiner.
- Experience with electronic review of construction documents.
- Engineer or architect license or professional degree.
- Must have a valid Washington State driver's license and the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle throughout the county.
- Must be able to lift 20lbs.
Supplemental Information
Applicants who pass the initial screening will be invited to participate in a virtual interview the week of February 3, 2024.
This recruitment may be used to fill vacancies for up to 6 months, including career service, short-term temporary (STT), term-limited temporary (TLT) and/or special duty assignment (SDA) opportunities for current King County career service employees who have passed their probationary period.
Who May Apply: This position is open to all qualified applicants. First consideration will be given to current PROTEC17 members in the same classification that are eligible for lateral transfer.
Forms and Materials: A completed King County Application is required. We highly recommend that you also provide a resume and cover letter (no more than 2 pages) summarizing how you meet the experience, qualifications, knowledge, and skills for the position.
Selection Process: Applicants will be screened for clarity, completeness, and competitiveness. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in one or more interviews. Interviews will be conducted via Teams. Reference checks and file reviews will be conducted.
Work Schedule: The work week is normally Monday through Friday, 7.00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., but may at times require work outside of normal business hours. This position is non-exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standard Act and is eligible for overtime pay, with prior supervisor approval.
Emergency Designation Status: This position has been designated as:
Non-Mission Critical - Employees who staff county functions or services that may be delayed, suspended, or diverted in an emergency while essential functions are prioritized Mission Critical.
Unless otherwise directed by the County Executive, department director or agency head, all employees, regardless of designation, are expected to report to work or request leave during an emergency or inclement weather. For more detailed information, please visit HR Policy County Operations During Emergency Situations and the King County Guidelines for Workforce Management in an Emergency .
Union Membership: PROTEC17
Teleworking Requirement:
This is a hybrid position. The work associated with this position will be performed by teleworking, field work, onsite work, and in-person meetings as needed. The responsibilities of this position may include regular and ongoing in-office work involving in-person customer service in accordance with the division's available customer service options.
Employees will have access to shared workspaces at various King County facilities.
Employees must reside in Washington State and within a reasonable distance to their King County worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements.
Employees will be provided with a County issued laptop and must maintain a workspace with an internet connection (access may be supplemented in some situations) where they can reliably perform work and remain available and responsive during scheduled work hours.
King County has a robust collection of tools and resources to support working remotely. The individual selected for this opportunity will be joining an innovative and progressive team that is redefining how we work as we transition to the department's hybrid environment.
Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers.
Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference? Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play.
Guided by our " True North ", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion, and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity. Equitable recruiting, support, and retention is how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles--we are one team; we solve problems; we focus on the customer; we drive for results; we are racially just; we respect all people; we lead the way; and we are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, and veterans.
King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.
To Apply:
If you are interested in pursuing this position, please follow the application instructions carefully. If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process or if you have questions, please contact your recruiter listed on this job announcement.
If you have any questions regarding this recruitment, please contact Vivienne Swai, HR Analyst, by email at vswai@kingcounty.gov , or by phone at 206-477-1538.
King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs:
- Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage options: King County provides eligible employees with options, so they can decide what's best for themselves and their eligible dependents
- Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents
- Retirement: eligible King County employees may participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan
- Transportation program and ORCA transit pass
- 12paid holidays each year plus twopersonal holidays
- Generous vacation and paid sick leave
- Paid parental,family and medical, and volunteer leaves
- Flexible Spending Account
- Wellness programs
- Onsite activity centers
- Employee Giving Program
- Employee assistance programs
- Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position
- Training and career development programs
This is a general description of the benefits offered to eligible King County employees, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA prevails.
NOTE: Benefits for Term Limited Temporary (TLT) or Short Term Temporary (STT) positions, including leave eligibility and/or participation in the pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, will vary based upon the terms and details of the position.Short Term Temporary positions are not eligible for an ORCA transit pass.
For inquiries about the specifics of this position, please contact the recruiter identified on this job posting.
