Job Details
Plan Check Engineer
2025-08-29 City of Novato, CA Novato,CA
Description:
Novato residents enjoy a thriving and family-oriented community with abundant educational, recreational, retail, and business opportunities. Residents are actively involved in important local quality of life decisions and the future direction of their City. The City Council encourages a high level of interaction between its citizenry and city government so that important issues are collaboratively explored and ideas are shared to develop the best possible outcomes. With a population of nearly 56,000, the community continues to foster a small-town atmosphere due to its low population density, large open space areas and parks, vibrant downtown, and inclusive community. With an abundance of natural beauty, a rich history, comfortable neighborhoods, a diversified economy, a promising life sciences industry, and passage of Measure M, the City is well-positioned to continue to thrive into the 21st century!
Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
To supervise professional and technical Building Division staff; to perform advanced level professional engineering work in an area of assignment, such as plan review of commercial, industrial, residential and multi-residential buildings and improvement plans; to review plans to ensure that they are designed in accordance with applicable codes, ordinances and permit requirements; and to provide responsible staff assistance to the Chief Building Official.
This is a first-line supervisory level class and advanced journey level class in the professional engineering series. Positions assigned to this class can be distinguished from lower-level engineering classes by the performance of more complex engineering tasks requiring a high degree of knowledge related to all areas of structural design, plan review and contract administration. Positions assigned to this class can be further distinguished by the performance of lead supervisory activities such as assigning work, monitoring project progress and providing technical assistance and training to other professional and technical staff as well as responsibility for assigned projects.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives administrative direction from the Chief Building Official.
May exercise direct supervision over professional, technical and clerical staff.
Example of Duties
ESSENTIAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS--Essential responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Essential Functions:
Typical Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of:
Experience:
Three years of increasingly responsible professional experience in structural and civil engineering building design and/or plan review.
Experience in field inspection work related to building and site development.
Training:
Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major work in structural and civil engineering.
License or Certificate:
Possession of a certificate of registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of California.
Possession of or ability to obtain within one year of hire a commercial building plans examiner certification.
Possession of a California Access Specialist (CASp) certification is highly desirable.
Additional Information
WORKING CONDITIONS
Office environment utilizing computers. Duties require positions to, on a continuous basis, sit at a desk for long periods of time; intermittently walk, bend, or stoop while installing/repairing equipment; twist to reach equipment surrounding desk; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation; use telephone, and write or use keyboard to communicate through written means; and lift or carry weight of 50 pounds or less and occasionally requiring work in confined spaces. Ability to travel to different sites and locations.
SELECTION PROCESS
It is important to complete all required application materials, including the supplemental questionnaire and any required additional documents. All applications will be screened for completeness and possession of minimum qualifications. Qualified applications will be reviewed in detail to identify the most qualified candidates to continue in the selection process which may consist solely of an application screening, or may include a written examination, skills assessment, oral appraisal interview, assessment center, or other activity selected by the Human Resources Department and the hiring department. As a result of the selection process an eligibility list of qualified candidates will be established to fill current and future vacancies as long as the eligibility list remains active. Candidates who score the highest in the selection process will be required to pass a reference and background exam prior to receiving a conditional job offer. Candidates receiving a conditional offer of employment will be required to pass a pre-employment medical and drug screen examination prior to receiving a final job offer.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Only Online Applications will be accepted. To be considered for this exciting opportunity, candidates must complete an online application and the required supplemental questionnaire. The supplemental questionnaire is part of the application; please provide sufficient detail to enable your answers to be rated.
FOR FIRST REVIEW APPLICATION DEADLINE: 11:59PM on Sunday, May 25, 2025
Accommodation: Applicants who may require special assistance in any step of the selection process should advise Human Resources by emailing ...@novato.org upon submittal of application.
The City of Novato is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Salary:
Starting salary is generally the first step of the range listed; however, advanced step appointments may be approved based upon qualifications when warranted. Subsequent salary increases within the range are scheduled yearly and may be granted based upon satisfactory service.
9/80 work schedule with closures on alternate Fridays. Employees work nine hours per day and eight hours per day on the working Friday.
Benefits:
The City participates in the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). In compliance with AB 340, CalPERS retirement formula is either 2% at 55; employee contributes 9.5% of salary, or 2% at 62; employee contributes 7.25% of salary, depending on eligibility.
The City provides a specific dollar amount to each employee based on the employee's benefit enrollment level to apply to medical, dental, life and disability insurance. The dental program and life insurance policy are mandatory. Health, vision and disability options are available. Employees who do NOT enroll in a healthcare plan through the City will receive up to $250 per month as an addition to their gross earnings.
Other Benefits Information:
Leaves:
01
I understand that this position requires that I successfully complete and pass a pre-employment physical, fingerprinting (LiveScan), and drug screen.
02
I certify that all information provided on my application and supplemental questionnaire is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge; and I understand that all information is subject to verification; and that false or incomplete information will result in disqualification from the selection process or dismissal, if hired.
Required Question
Salary : $122,952.60 - $149,449.80 Annually
Location : Novato, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2025-13
Department: Community Development
Opening Date: 05/02/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Job Description
Come Join Our Team!
THE CITY OF NOVATO IS RECRUITING
FOR
PLAN CHECK ENGINEER
For First Review Application Deadline: 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, May 25, 2025
The City of Novato is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Plan Check Engineer to join our Community Development team. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to play a vital role in ensuring the safety, compliance, and structural integrity of buildings and development projects throughout the city.
We are looking for a proactive and analytical individual with a strong background in engineering principles, plan review, and building code compliance. The ideal candidate will have expertise in evaluating commercial, industrial, and residential building plans, interpreting complex regulations, and collaborating with architects, engineers, and contractors. As a key member of the team, this position will also provide guidance to staff, oversee technical reviews, and assist in the development of policies and procedures to enhance the City's building safety standards.
Novato is a dynamic and forward-thinking organization that values professionalism, innovation, and teamwork. If you are passionate about structural safety, enjoy problem-solving, and are ready to make a meaningful impact in our community, we encourage you to apply!
Additional Benefits
- 9/80 work schedule, every other Friday off
- Accrue vacation at a rate of 80 hours per year
- Provided with 40 hours of sick leave upon hire
- 14 paid holidays per year
- Monthly health premium paid by the City up to $2,893.54, depending on enrollment
- Qualified Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Agency
- Free parking on site
- Office is within walking distance of terrific restaurants, shopping, and the downtown SMART station
Novato residents enjoy a thriving and family-oriented community with abundant educational, recreational, retail, and business opportunities. Residents are actively involved in important local quality of life decisions and the future direction of their City. The City Council encourages a high level of interaction between its citizenry and city government so that important issues are collaboratively explored and ideas are shared to develop the best possible outcomes. With a population of nearly 56,000, the community continues to foster a small-town atmosphere due to its low population density, large open space areas and parks, vibrant downtown, and inclusive community. With an abundance of natural beauty, a rich history, comfortable neighborhoods, a diversified economy, a promising life sciences industry, and passage of Measure M, the City is well-positioned to continue to thrive into the 21st century!
Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
To supervise professional and technical Building Division staff; to perform advanced level professional engineering work in an area of assignment, such as plan review of commercial, industrial, residential and multi-residential buildings and improvement plans; to review plans to ensure that they are designed in accordance with applicable codes, ordinances and permit requirements; and to provide responsible staff assistance to the Chief Building Official.
This is a first-line supervisory level class and advanced journey level class in the professional engineering series. Positions assigned to this class can be distinguished from lower-level engineering classes by the performance of more complex engineering tasks requiring a high degree of knowledge related to all areas of structural design, plan review and contract administration. Positions assigned to this class can be further distinguished by the performance of lead supervisory activities such as assigning work, monitoring project progress and providing technical assistance and training to other professional and technical staff as well as responsibility for assigned projects.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives administrative direction from the Chief Building Official.
May exercise direct supervision over professional, technical and clerical staff.
Example of Duties
ESSENTIAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS--Essential responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Essential Functions:
- Performs professional engineering work in reviewing, analyzing, and approving plans, specifications, and supporting documentation of commercial and industrial buildings and residential structures; reviews building plans and specifications for compliance with the plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and structural engineered design and other related engineering design requirements.
- Reviews permit applications, plans, calculations, and specifications of buildings and structures for compliance with structural and non-structural design, including but not limited to grading, soil reports, energy standards, disabled access standards, fire and life safety standards, plumbing, mechanical and electrical standards, and general conformity to all applicable ordinances, standards, and State building codes.
- Reviews site improvement plans for all private single lot projects. Responsible for final approval of grading plans for construction.
- Consults with architects, engineers, and contractors regarding structural and fire-life safety requirements of building design; answers questions and gives instructions to architects, engineers, contractors and others regarding building requirements and requirements for compliance standards; issues permits after plan review approval.
- Makes field inspections as required.
- Advises Code Enforcement personnel regarding associated structural, civil engineering, and building code related issues.
- Formulates recommendations regarding use of consultants and monitors performance and consulting contracts.
- Provides direct supervision to professional, technical engineering and clerical staff; participates in recommending the appointment of personnel; provides or coordinates staff training; works with employees to correct deficiencies; implement discipline procedures.
- Participates in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies and priorities related to the Building Division.
- Assists in planning, organizing, evaluating, and participating in the functions and activities of the Building Division including supervision, plan review and inspection.
- Assists Chief Building Official in performing structural and civil engineering tasks that are part of City projects.
- Assists in resolving work problems; interpreting routine administrative policies to subordinates, other departments, consultants, contractors and the public.
- Assists in coordinating Division activities with those of other departments and outside agencies and organizations.
- Participates in the development of division policies and procedures for a variety of Building Division needs.
- Perform related duties as required.
Typical Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of:
- Advanced principles, methods, and practices of structural and civil engineering.
- Applicable State laws, ordinances, and codes related to building development design and construction.
- Methods, materials, and techniques used in the construction of Public and Private development projects.
- Recent developments, current literature, and sources of information regarding structural, civil engineering, and land development.
- Pertinent State, Federal and local standards, regulations, and ordinances.
- Principles of supervision, training and performance evaluation.
- Provide lead supervision and training to assigned personnel.
- Supervise, train and evaluate assigned personnel.
- Perform structural calculations necessary to determine the adherence of structural plans to code requirements.
- Analyze plans and detect code violations. Provide clear, concise written plan review comment reports.
- Understand and interpret complex construction plans, specifications, and other project documentation.
- Perform technical research and solve difficult engineering problems.
- Conduct comprehensive engineering studies and prepare reports with appropriate recommendations.
- Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals.
- Interpret and apply pertinent laws, standards, and regulations.
- Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
- Maintain mental capacity which allows the capability of:
Making sound decisions
Demonstrating effective leadership. - Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for:
Making observations
Communicating with others
Reading and writing
Operating assigned office equipment.
Experience:
Three years of increasingly responsible professional experience in structural and civil engineering building design and/or plan review.
Experience in field inspection work related to building and site development.
Training:
Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major work in structural and civil engineering.
License or Certificate:
Possession of a certificate of registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of California.
Possession of or ability to obtain within one year of hire a commercial building plans examiner certification.
Possession of a California Access Specialist (CASp) certification is highly desirable.
Additional Information
WORKING CONDITIONS
Office environment utilizing computers. Duties require positions to, on a continuous basis, sit at a desk for long periods of time; intermittently walk, bend, or stoop while installing/repairing equipment; twist to reach equipment surrounding desk; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation; use telephone, and write or use keyboard to communicate through written means; and lift or carry weight of 50 pounds or less and occasionally requiring work in confined spaces. Ability to travel to different sites and locations.
SELECTION PROCESS
It is important to complete all required application materials, including the supplemental questionnaire and any required additional documents. All applications will be screened for completeness and possession of minimum qualifications. Qualified applications will be reviewed in detail to identify the most qualified candidates to continue in the selection process which may consist solely of an application screening, or may include a written examination, skills assessment, oral appraisal interview, assessment center, or other activity selected by the Human Resources Department and the hiring department. As a result of the selection process an eligibility list of qualified candidates will be established to fill current and future vacancies as long as the eligibility list remains active. Candidates who score the highest in the selection process will be required to pass a reference and background exam prior to receiving a conditional job offer. Candidates receiving a conditional offer of employment will be required to pass a pre-employment medical and drug screen examination prior to receiving a final job offer.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Only Online Applications will be accepted. To be considered for this exciting opportunity, candidates must complete an online application and the required supplemental questionnaire. The supplemental questionnaire is part of the application; please provide sufficient detail to enable your answers to be rated.
FOR FIRST REVIEW APPLICATION DEADLINE: 11:59PM on Sunday, May 25, 2025
Accommodation: Applicants who may require special assistance in any step of the selection process should advise Human Resources by emailing ...@novato.org upon submittal of application.
The City of Novato is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Salary:
Starting salary is generally the first step of the range listed; however, advanced step appointments may be approved based upon qualifications when warranted. Subsequent salary increases within the range are scheduled yearly and may be granted based upon satisfactory service.
9/80 work schedule with closures on alternate Fridays. Employees work nine hours per day and eight hours per day on the working Friday.
Benefits:
The City participates in the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). In compliance with AB 340, CalPERS retirement formula is either 2% at 55; employee contributes 9.5% of salary, or 2% at 62; employee contributes 7.25% of salary, depending on eligibility.
The City provides a specific dollar amount to each employee based on the employee's benefit enrollment level to apply to medical, dental, life and disability insurance. The dental program and life insurance policy are mandatory. Health, vision and disability options are available. Employees who do NOT enroll in a healthcare plan through the City will receive up to $250 per month as an addition to their gross earnings.
Other Benefits Information:
- Employee Assistance Program: A City-paid EAP is available for employees and members of their household.
- Long-term Disability Insurance is provided as an optional benefit. Employee pays $9.78 per month if opting in.
- State Disability Insurance (SDI) is provided. Employee pays 0.6% of salary (pre-tax).
- Deferred Compensation Savings Plans (457) are available to employees through a deferred compensation program.
- Employee must pay an amount equal to 1.45% of salary toward Medicare. An equal amount is paid by the City.
- The City does not participate in Social Security.
Leaves:
- The City offers 14 paid holidays;
- 80 hours of vacation after 1 year (graduates to 21 days for 20 years of service); Employees currently working for another agency (state, federal or local) will have their vacation rate adjusted to account for their years of service with that public agency.
- New employees will receive 40 hours of sick leave on their start date. (unused leave applied to service credit at retirement).
01
I understand that this position requires that I successfully complete and pass a pre-employment physical, fingerprinting (LiveScan), and drug screen.
- Yes
- No
02
I certify that all information provided on my application and supplemental questionnaire is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge; and I understand that all information is subject to verification; and that false or incomplete information will result in disqualification from the selection process or dismissal, if hired.
- Yes
- No
Required Question