Energy Construction Plans Examiner I/II

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Interested in working for Arlington County's award-winning, fully accredited Inspection Services Division?  We have just the opportunity for you! The Inspection Services Division (ISD) within the Community Planning, Housing and Development (CPHD) Department is seeking an Energy Construction Plans Examiner I/II to join our team! The ISD is responsible for working with Arlington County citizens, design professionals, developers, and contractors to review and inspect projects throughout the County. 

This position provides senior technical energy plans examinations and inspections of commercial construction projects for compliance with state adopted codes, local codes, ordinances, and standards.  The position may be filled at level I or II based on candidate's experience and qualifications.

Major Job Duties:  

• Reviews, analyzes, and evaluates energy conservation codes and standards plans for residential, commercial, and institutional buildings for approval;
• Provides inspectors with technical support for code decisions, conducts inspections of commercial construction projects, determines compliance with VUSBC and other building regulations, and enforces codes;
• Documents deficiencies in written narratives, including specific code citations, to clearly communicate compliance requirements to engineers, contractors, architects, and developers, facilitating permit issuance and the start of construction;
• Inspects projects to ensure compliance with approved construction documents;
• Collaborates and coordinates with the other Plans Examiners and inspectors;
• Maintains knowledge of changes to state adopted codes, local codes and ordinances;
• Participate in code development process at State and National levels; and
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

The successful candidate will possess: 

• Working knowledge of construction drawings and plans pertaining to energy code compliance, including the ability to analyze drawings, apply codes, and determine methods of construction.
• Working knowledge of testing, and commissioning requirements of Energy Codes and Standards.
• Knowledge of International Energy Conservation Code and relevant ASHRAE standards, and International Residential Code energy provisions.
• Ability to comprehend technical materials, compose letters or narrative reports, and problem-solving skills to solve defined practical problems.
• Interpersonal skills to provide routine information courteously, to explain rules and procedures clearly, and to serve as expert witness.

Minimum: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Architecture & Sustainable Design, or related field; plus
Energy Construction Plans Examiner I:

• Must obtain Virginia state certification as a Plans Examiner in classification of applicable code discipline/trade within 12 months of employment.

Energy Construction Plans Examiner II:

• Some responsible experience with energy construction plans related to buildings and facilities;
• Possession of Virginia Plans Examiner Certification in classification of applicable code discipline/trade upon employment; and
• Completion of the requirements to obtain additional certifications as a Plans Examiner in qualifying disciplines (e.g., plumbing, structural, building, fire, mechanical, and/or electrical) – OR – possession of a Registered Design Professional license.

Substitution: Additional qualifying experience in an area or areas of specialization (e.g., plumbing, construction, mechanical or electrical engineering) may substitute for the education requirement on a year for year basis.

Desirables: Preference may be given to candidates with experience one or more of the following:

• Working with the International Energy Conservation Code; 

• Reading and interpreting construction documents, specifications, codes, regulations and/or ordinances; 

• Responding to public inquiries.

Preference may be given to candidates with the following certifications:

• ICC or the State of Virginia as a Commercial Energy Plans Exami