Building Plans Examiner - job 1 of 2

As a Building Plans Examiner for the City of Fort Worth, your primary responsibilities include interpreting regulations, laws, and ordinances to ensure plans comply with established guidelines. You'll assist contractors and architects with their documentation and provide innovative solutions to any issues that arise during the review process. This role also involves entering plans examination data into our computer systems, revising plans as necessary, and ensuring all building applications are thoroughly processed.

To qualify for the Building Plans Examiner role at the City of Fort Worth, candidates typically need an associate degree and at least two years of relevant experience in fields like building inspection or construction. Additionally, having a certificate from a recognized national code organization in areas such as building, plumbing, or mechanical codes is preferred, along with any permitting software experience, such as Accela.

Working as a Building Plans Examiner for the City of Fort Worth comes with a competitive benefits package. You'll enjoy 11 paid holidays each year, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, paid time off, and a pension plan. Moreover, the city fosters professional development, allowing employees to enhance their skills and advance their careers.

Yes, candidates for the Building Plans Examiner position at the City of Fort Worth should have relevant experience in building inspection, plans examination, or related fields. However, those who do not meet the educational requirement may still be considered if they possess sufficient relevant work experience that compensates for the lack of formal education.

As a Building Plans Examiner with the City of Fort Worth, your typical work schedule is Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 5 PM. However, some evening or weekend work may be necessary depending on project deadlines and community needs, providing some flexibility in your work life.

In answering this question, focus on your previous roles in which you've worked with building codes. Highlight specific codes you are familiar with and provide examples of how you applied these codes in plan reviews.

Discuss your approach to problem-solving within the context of building plans, sharing examples where you found creative solutions to meet code requirements or address contractor inquiries.

Explaining your organizational skills is key here. Discuss techniques you use for maintaining focus and accuracy, such as checklists, schedule blocks, or grouping similar types of plan reviews.

Share your experience in customer service, emphasizing your listening skills, patience, and ability to explain complex regulations in simple terms, ensuring clarity and mutual understanding.

Talk about your professional development habits, including attending workshops, subscribing to industry publications, or participating in relevant online forums to remain informed about updates in building codes.

Provide a specific example where your involvement made a difference, showcasing your analytical skills and the positive outcomes for the project as a Building Plans Examiner.

Discuss the importance of open communication and diplomacy. Explain how you would aim for a collaborative resolution while remaining firm in upholding safety and code compliance.

If applicable, outline any experience you have with permitting software, especially Accela, detailing how you've utilized it to streamline processes in past roles.

Talk about your passion for contributing to community safety and development. Highlight how facilitating safe constructions brings you personal satisfaction and aligns with the mission of the City of Fort Worth.

Focus on common industry challenges, such as keeping pace with rapid growth and changing regulations, and how you'll tackle these challenges head-on, possibly by enhancing your skills and knowledge continuously.