Permit Technician

****Please complete an online application on the City's website to be considered for the following position. https://www.cityofbeaufort.org/

GENERAL DEFINITION OF WORK:
The position of Permit Technician is a multi-faceted, front counter position that is usually the first contact point between the public and the City of Beaufort’s Building Codes Department. This position requires exemplary customer service, the ability to multi-task and handle unpredictable and ever-changing situations, and quickly problem-solve to help customers with a variety of questions and needs. This position provides administrative support to the Building Official and Development Review Coordinator and works with the Business License Department to verify and issue Business Licenses if needed.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
The following functions are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of the specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
• Provide information and technical assistance to permit applicants for gaining compliance with all applicable codes, ordinances and regulations involved in the permitting process.
• Provide detailed/re-occurring assistance to homeowners and new contractors on the required paperwork needed prior to accepting an application (i.e., following through with outstanding items needed which may require constant follow-ups, investigating, etc.).
• Process permit applications by accepting applications, checking for accuracy and completeness, calculating fees, routing submitted plans and permits for review (i.e., to Zoning, Building Codes, Fire & City Engineer).
• Perform work that requires an extensive amount of public contact in explaining the permit process and in dealing with the public, contractors and other construction personnel in a calm, tactful and courteous manner.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of all permits (i.e. scanning all required documents and attaching them into permit program to appropriate application).
• Process daily emails, which includes, but not limited to, a wide variety of questions, requests, complaints, attachments pertaining to a specific permit, etc.
• Process new business licenses & renewals by accepting and verifying appropriate paperwork as well as calculating related fees.
• Link appropriate accounts and direct customers to use Citizen Self Service Payment Portal.
• Balances cash drawer; deposits daily funds.
• Obtain daily inspections from recorder, compile accurate list and notify appropriate personnel.
• Verify documents are in order prior to releasing permanent power and gas, then forward to appropriate utility company.
• Collect various payments, various payments to the City, hospitality, accommodation payments).
• Archive plans as appropriate.

JOB KNOWLEDGE AND SKIILLS:
• Knowledge of operations, services, and activities of a building services program.
• Knowledge of organization procedures, and operating details of the division.
• Basic knowledge of building codes.
• Knowledge of City government organization, functions, policies, rules, and regulations.
• Knowledge of office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. Basic accounting skills, principles and procedures of record keeping and filing.
• Oral communication and interpersonal skills to explain rules and procedures clearly to the public.
• Problem-solving skills to gather relevant information to solve vaguely defined practical problems.
• Understand and adapt to both manual and digital methods for permit application and processing.
• Ability to work on several projects or issues simultaneously.
• Ability to work independently or in a team environment as needed.
• Excellent customer service skills.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS:
The Permit Technician requires a High School Diploma or equivalent. Associates degree or higher preferred. A minimum of 2 years of clerical experience involving extensive customer service. Building or construction industry experience preferred but not required. The successful candidate must pass the ICC Permit Technician Certification within one year of hire.

HOURLY RATE: $22.66-$22.66