Commercial Plans Examiner

The Department of Building Inspection is accepting applications to fill the position of Commercial Plans Examiner.  Under limited supervision, the incumbent will examine commercial building plans for compliance with building, electrical, mechanical, fuel, gas, plumbing, fire sprinkler, fire alarm, energy conservation, handicap accessibility and other related codes and reference standards within area of certification; informs applicant, design professional and/or contractor regarding code deficiencies and requirements; interprets architectural/engineering drawings, supporting documentation, calculations and specifications for code compliance; offers technical assistance to inspection staff as needed, and performs commercial field inspections and other related duties as required.

Why Goochland County

• The County of Goochland offers an excellent employee benefits package, contributions to the Virginia Retirement System, and 14 paid annual holidays.
• Rewarded for professional accomplish through career development plan
• The Department of Building Inspection specifically provides employees with uniforms, including long and short-sleeve work shirts with county logo, quality work pants, a three-season jacket with county logo, a high-quality winter coat with county logo, safety shoes, and head cover if desired.
• The department will provide all necessary personal protective equipment, tools, and equipment necessary to perform field inspections.
• Paid first and last certification fees associated with the required DHCD certifications and offers an excellent career development plan affording individuals’ opportunities for potential significant advancement.

• Reviews complex plans to verify compliance with applicable building, electrical, mechanical, fuel gas, plumbing, fire sprinkler, fire alarm, energy conservation, handicap accessibility and other related codes and reference standards
• Answers questions in person and on the phone regarding plan review comments, code requirements and inspection results
• Research codes for approval or disapproval of submitted plans, especially in unusual or unique installations or construction applications
• Reviews third party inspection reports for accuracy, code compliance, and history of reoccurring deficiencies to be brought to the attention of inspection staff
• Ability to provide articulate and concise correspondence explaining reasons a plan review was disapproved
• Reviews new and required plans in electronic permitting software system
• Reviews new materials and methods used in building construction; attends training courses to learn of new codes and other inspection regulations
• Performs commercial inspections of all trades on an as need basis, with appropriate certifications
• Occasionally serves afterhours as emergency on-call representative for Building Inspection Department to respond as requested by Fire/Rescue Department and/or Sheriff’s Office
• Represents the Building Inspection Department at pre-construction meetings as requested 
• Performs other duties as assigned

• Thorough working knowledge of building, electrical, mechanical, fuel gas, plumbing, fire sprinkler, fire alarm, energy conservation, handicap accessibility and other related codes and reference standards
• Thorough working knowledge of the principles and practices of the construction industry
• Knowledge and skills associated with conducting complete and thorough building and trades associated field inspections for code compliance
• Knowledge of construction and related materials and tools
• Excellent customer service skills required
• Skilled in the use of a variety of office equipment including personal computers and related software
• Skilled in reading and interpreting blueprints, specifications, codes, and standards
• Demonstrated skills in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work
• Effective communicator, both orally and in writing
• Ability to safely operate and maintain County vehicles, equipment, and tools under their control
• Able to assist Building Official/Deputy Building Official as needed

• Associates degree in a construction, building or engineering technology field with at least three (3) years of experience in commercial plan review or any equivalent combination of training and experience
• Certification as a Commercial Building, Electrical, Mechanical and Plumbing Inspector is required within 18 months of employment
• Certification as a Master Code Professional is desirable 
• A valid Virginia driver’s license and good driving record is required