Permit Coordinator

City of Charleston, West Virginia

About the Position

The City of Charleston is seeking a Permit Coordinator to support building and construction permitting, coordinate plan reviews, and assist contractors, property owners, and the public.

This position distributes construction plans to the appropriate departments, issues building permits and contractor licenses, maintains permit records, and provides administrative support. The Permit Coordinator works under general supervision and independently organizes work methods and daily tasks.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and distribute building and construction plans to the appropriate departments for review.

• Issue over-the-counter and previously reviewed building permits to contractors and property owners.

• Issue contractor licenses and renewal forms, and explain the documentation required for permits and licenses.

• Assist customers by phone and at the counter, answer questions, and direct inquiries to the appropriate staff.

• Communicate with contractors, engineers, and architects about plan submission requirements and coordinate reviews with internal departments.

• Enter and maintain permit information, including applicant contact details, project costs, and review comments.

• Review contracts to determine applicable permit fees.

• Purchase departmental materials and supplies; issue purchase orders; and process invoices, purchase requisitions, and accounts payable information.

• Serve as a backup timekeeper by entering employee time and leave into the timekeeping system.

• Support departmental goals through responsive customer service, efficient work practices, and collaboration.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Skills

Minimum qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.

• At least three months of experience with permits or closely related work.

• Ability to provide documentation verifying legal work status.

• Ability to read and speak English proficiently to communicate with others, understand and interpret safety instructions, and respond to inquiries.

• Ability to understand and comply with City and departmental policies, procedures, guidelines, and expectations.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Clear, respectful verbal and written communication.

• Courteous, accessible, and helpful service to internal and external customers.

• Ability to gather, organize, review, and evaluate information accurately.

• Ability to read technical instructions and procedure manuals and prepare reports, forms, and business correspondence.

• Ability to perform basic arithmetic and calculate ratios, rates, and percentages.

• Sound judgment and problem-solving skills when applying established guidelines to routine and changing situations.

• Accountability, adaptability, initiative, and a commitment to professional development.

• Ability to work collaboratively with coworkers and other departments to achieve City and departmental goals.

No special certifications or licenses are required.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

This position primarily involves sedentary office work, including sustained keyboard use, with some walking and standing. Duties require exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis.

The work involves frequent problem-solving, attention to accuracy, and occasional periods of unusual pressure. The position also includes responsibility for appropriately handling departmental materials, supplies, and financial information.

Equal Opportunity and Employment Notice

The City of Charleston, WV, is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss accommodation needs with management.