Building Code Senior Plans Examiner

It’s a great time to join the City of Boulder!

Application Deadline:

August 18, 2026

Compensation Details:

Full Pay Range

83,616.00 - 121,118.40

Generally, the hiring range is from the minimum up to 80% of the range.This is a full-time salaried position.

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Benefit Eligibility Group:

Non Union (30+ Hours)

Locate the Benefit Eligibility Group value on the Employee Benefit Eligibility document to identify the benefits offered for this job.

Job Description Summary:

Under general direction, reviews industrial, commercial and residential construction documents for conformance with city codes and provides the public and city staff with technical assistance and information regarding construction codes and standards compliance of structures within the city.

Job Description:

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES                 

• Provides exceptional customer service to City of Boulder residents and internal city staff.
• Reviews construction documents included with building permit applications for compliance with adopted Building Codes to include, building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, energy, and gas regulations and standards.
• Determines approval or denial of building permit applications based on review.
• Reviews construction design specifications and calculations for compliance with engineering, zoning and building provisions, and consult with the designer to clarify or make corrections as necessary. 
• Reviews include all life-safety aspects of structural and architectural designs, mechanical systems, plumbing systems, gas systems, electrical systems, accessibility requirements and wildland urban interface regulations. 
• Evaluates alternative materials or construction methods and report findings to the Chief Building Official for determination of equivalency.
• Verifies construction valuation to determine appropriate building permits fees.
• Records review comments, special reports, correspondence, approvals, preconstruction meeting results and decisions in the permit tracking data system.
• Reviews amendments or addenda on resubmittals and field changes for approval and documentation.
• Serves as a technical resource for the International Codes and Energy Code for customers and staff.
• Makes determinations regarding customer and staff inquiries about project applications, codes, processes, building construction, and other permit or business process related matters.
• Participates in the development and maintenance of operational procedures, departmental policies, public information, customer self-help materials, permit applications and associated documents.
• Supports enforcement efforts by analyzing issues and providing documentation for City Attorney's Office and enforcement staff and testifies in court as necessary.
• Attends public meetings, as assigned, to aid in issues identification, and provide information to the community about applicable city processes, building codes requirements, opportunities for participation and related matters.
• Coordinates with other review and permitting staff to facilitate and implement project review and construction completion.
• Interacts with professional engineers, architects, contractors, and permit applicants to discuss and resolve design issues.
• Works with applicants to make changes in project applications necessary to comply with community plans, policies, codes and criteria, while respecting the needs and objectives of the applicant.
• Supports building inspectors and performs field inspections and on-site plan reviews when needed.
• Manages projects involving the periodic review, analyses, and adoption of new building codes and standards, and participates in the associated public review and hearing process.
•  Facilitates and supports on going communication processes. Administers training processes, as needed.
• Facilitates processes within groups to explore options, develop consensus, and implement policy directions. This includes making presentations to multi departmental, citizen, or advisory board groups, facilitating meetings, and conducting public hearings.
• Compiles and prepares information or special reports in response to citizen, departmental, or other requests.
• Maintains knowledge of City plans, policies, codes, requirements, community objectives and issues; maintains personal and professional standards of continuous improvement.
• Participates in professional industry groups and organizations.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 

• Ability to carefully listen and understand customer concerns and capable of using personal initiative to resolve issues in a manner consistent with adopted regulations, policies and procedures. 
• Ability to demonstrate analytical, organization, problem-solving and time management skills.
• Ability to demonstrate integrity by follow-through on commitments and acceptance of responsibility.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural and engineering and construction drawings, surveys, plats, engineering studies and technical reports, design manuals, codes, and regulations.
• Ability to use microcomputers for review processes and functions.
• Ability to work independently, to assume responsibility, to prioritize and resolve problems, to work under pressure, to pay close attention to detail, to coordinate tasks to completion and provide quality control for responsiveness and customer satisfaction.
• Knowledge and understanding of engineering principles, construction standards and practices, and design guidelines.  
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships at all levels of the organization.
• Skill in verbal communication, including process facilitation and presentation skills, strong public communication skills, and the ability to communicate complex issues with clarity.
• Skill in written communication, including the ability to prepare clear and concise written correspondence, reports, and recommendations.  
• Must successfully pass a background check before first day of work and maintain acceptable screening.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge and experience with administration of codes and regulations. 
• Knowledge of and experience with Bluebeam, Microsoft Office, and EnerGov tracking software.
• Current International Code Council (ICC) certification as a Combination Inspector and/or Electrical Plans Examiner.
• Current license as a Professional Architect.
• Current license as a Professional Engineer. 
• ICC or Legacy certification as a Building Official.  

MINIMUM REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field; or equivalent of eight (8) years’ experience may substitute for the education requirement only.
• Five (5) years of professionally responsible experience.
• ICC or Legacy certification as a commercial plans examiner.
• Three (3) certifications that are required for the Master Code Professional (MCP) certification.
• Must hold and maintain a valid drivers' license.

SUPERVISION

Supervision Received: Building Code Plans Manager

Supervision Exercised:  None

WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS    

• Physical and Mental Effort: Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing or other communication capabilities that permits effective communication on the telephone and in person. Sufficient vision or other powers of observation that permits the review, evaluation and preparation of a variety of written documents and materials. Sufficient manual dexterity that permits the  operation of computers and other office equipment. Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, which permits work in an office setting. Work may include extended periods of time viewing a monitor and operating a keyboard.  Ability to work under stress from demanding deadlines, public contact, and changing priorities and conditions.
• Work Environment: Works primarily in a clean, comfortable environment.  Works in a setting subject to continuous interruptions and background noises.
• Machines and Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including computers, telephones, calculators and multi-function printers. City vehicle.

As part of the City of Boulder’s commitment to a future with equitable access to health, prosperity, and fulfillment that is not limited by a person’s race, ethnicity, age, gender, ability, religion, sexuality, or socioeconomic status, it is the city’s policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) for all individuals. The city does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law or policy.