Permit Technician

Job Title

Job Summary

Provide comprehensive customer service support across various functions of the Planning and Development Services department, for planning and building, zoning, housing, and code enforcement. Assist and guide customers in navigating the Residential and Zoning permitting application, issuance, and inspection processes, ensuring clear communication of procedures and requirements. Work closely with all divisions of Planning and Development Services to educate the public on building code and ordinances.

Job Responsibilities

1. Perform frequent customer-orientated work over the phone and at information / service counters as the initial representative and liaison for various department-related services.

2. Assist customers by assessing the scope of a project and relevant permit requirements. Inform customers regarding necessary permits and general code compliance of proposed projects. Refer customers, if necessary, to an appropriate staff member for plan review and permit issuance.

3. Calculate, verify, and receive valuations and fees, and accept payments for plan review submittals. Process various applications for permits, inspections, and development documents, and issue permits as authorized. Ensure timely completion of schedules by the appropriate inspector.

4. Provide information and services to the general public, contractors, and designers on code-related matters relating to planning, zoning, housing, and building procedures, requirements, and similar items.

5. Coordinate and administer licenses issued by the divisions of the department. Review applications to ensure compliance with all applicable City ordinances and policies. Maintain necessary records and files to support the licensing applications including testing, new licenses, renewals, transfers, and bonding and insurance requirements. Process bond claims as required.

6. Maintain official records, including electronic archiving of records, resolve data errors, and prepare reports as required. Monitor billing and receipt payments of inspections, including electrical, mechanical, and plumbing payments due, and issue credit memos. Prepare permit statistic reports and Certificates of Occupancy as required. Update and maintain licensing information on the City's website.

7. Respond to citizen questions and concerns and disseminate appropriate information through working knowledge of departmental policies, procedures, activities, etc. Refer issues and concerns to appropriate staff for resolution.

8. Balance daily permit receipts and prepare appropriate daily reports for submittal of departmental accounting. Provide for and monitor department's budget for purchasing as assigned.

9. Educate the public and contractors on the use of our inspection and permitting software.

10. Perform other such duties and functions as are necessary or incidental to the proper performance of this position.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from an accredited college, university, or vocational / technical school with an associate degree in business or public administration with a minimum of two (2) years' customer service experience, an understanding of planning and zoning, building trades and construction, and code enforcement; or any combination of education, experience, or training as may be acceptable to the hiring authority.

Possession of a valid driver's license is desirable.

Certification as a Permit Technician through the International Code Council (ICC) is desirable.

Supplemental Information

Knowledge of City ordinances relating to building construction, zoning, planning, and property maintenance.

Possess strong customer experience skills with the ability to deal tactfully and firmly with the public while remaining calm in stressful situations.

Ability to prioritize work, meet deadlines, and perform in a multitasking environment, including the ability to handle numerous phone calls and other customer inquiries.

Ability to apply a working knowledge of land use, planning, zoning, building codes, sign codes, and floodplain development.

Knowledge of building construction techniques, plans, methods, and materials.

Ability to read construction plans.

Knowledge and experience of general bookkeeping, cashiering, recordkeeping, filing procedures, and data entry work.

Knowledge of real estate legal descriptions and general code administration.

Experience with Microsoft Office products, and the ability to learn new software programs such as the EnerGov suite of software, various electronic and property files, and familiarity with .net applications.

Ability to read manuals, codebooks, online code of ordinances, and other printed materials and to write reports, complete documents, and issue permits.

Skill in mathematical computations sufficient to fees and payments, etc.

Possess strong oral and written communication skills.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and tactful communication with public and staff.