Plans Reviewer; Code Specialist II

This position performs the full professional work in the interpretation and enforcement of applicable codes, ordinances, regulations, and internal policies. Evaluates fire and life safety plans and associated documentation and performs related inspections for new construction and alterations to existing construction to ensure compliance with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), Statewide Fire Prevention Code (VSFPC), County Code, and related policies.

Prepares appropriate correspondence to architects, engineers, designers, installers, owners, contractors addressing any code-related deficiencies noted during plan reviews. Enforces the Virginia Statewide Fire Code, portions of the Virginia Construction Code and referenced NFPA standards by conducting plan reviews to include associated report preparation. Ensures up-to-date technical documents and will assist with internal code-related projects. Performs other duties as assigned to further the goals and objectives of the department.

Works under general supervision.

• Serves as a technical assistant in the interpretation, development, or enforcement of applicable codes, ordinances, and related internal policies;
• Provides technical interpretation for citizens, staff, and county officials, and ensures compliance and consistency in code ordinance, and regulatory enforcement;
• Evaluates plan submissions for code compliance and completeness and communicates deficiencies;
• Assists in the design and presentation of technical training concerning applicable codes, ordinances, policies, and regulatory requirements;
• Conducts reviews and/or inspections of projects designed or installed by contractors, developers, or individuals to verify compliance with applicable contracts, agreements, county and state codes and regulations;
• Engages in safe working practices and complies with safety programs and guidelines;
• Reports and monitors unsafe working conditions;
• Complies with safety competencies.

• Working knowledge of the industry and of the codes and ordinances that apply to the type of work being regulated;
• Working knowledge of the process by which violations of applicable codes, ordinances, and related internal policies are resolved and the legal procedures for prosecuting such violations;
• Working knowledge of real property descriptions;
• Working knowledge of inspection methods;
• Ability to resolve conflicts and negotiate agreements using tact, diplomacy, and persuasion;
• Ability to speak clearly and concisely in front of various size groups and to effectively conduct group meetings;
• Ability to prepare clear and concise technical reports and suggested code and policy changes and to present findings in a clear and concise format;
• Ability to review site plans and communicate deficiencies;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with others;
• Ability to handle interpersonal conflict situations with tact and diplomacy;
• Ability to negotiate and solve problems;
• Ability to comprehend and comply to safety practices.

Any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to the following:
Graduation from an accredited four year college or university with a bachelor's degree in a field of study directly related to the industry being regulated such as engineering, architecture, urban planning, biological or environmental science, public administration, law enforcement, legal studies or a related field; plus two years of progressively more responsible complaint resolution and/or code enforcement experience in the industry being regulated.

• Driver's License (Required)
• Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Building Code Academy (CORE Module) (Required within 12 months)
• Fire Inspector I/II (NFPA 1031) from the Virginia Department of Fire Programs (Required within 12 months)
• VDHCD Fire Protection Plans Examiner (Required within 18 months)

Necessary Special Requirements:
The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check, sanctions screening and driving record check to the satisfaction of the employer.

• Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Building Code Academy (CORE Module) Certification
• Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Fire Protection Plans Examiner Certification
• Fire Inspector I/II (NFPA 1031) from the Virginia Department of Fire Programs certification
• Knowledge of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code and referenced standards.
• Experience with review of building and tenant drawings for construction type, structural fire resistance, means of egress, and fire protection system requirements.
• Experience, including laboratory and classroom experience, with fire protection systems, water distribution systems, building construction materials, processes and techniques, fire alarm systems,…