Plans Examiner Specialist (Building)

Are you an experienced Plans Examiner Specialist looking to make a positive impact within your community? Do you like the beach, great food, and friendly people? If so, look no further because New Hanover County has all of that plus much more!

New Hanover County is seeking an experienced Plans Examiner Specialist to join the Building Safety department. This position reviews submitted construction plans to verify compliance with the technical building codes. In addition, the Specialist will review contractor licenses, interpret appropriate local construction ordinances, inspect new and existing residential and commercial structures, as needed, to ensure that they comply with appropriate standards, laws, and ordinances. This position is also responsible for maintaining accurate records of performed inspections and plan reviews, verifying state licensing requirements for engineers, architects, and contractors. The position serves as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for customers and field staff, mentors plan reviewers and provides educational opportunities to staff. The Plans Examiner Specialist assists in training and researching codes to respond to inquiries and will meet with customers on-site to help with their needs and requires considerable interaction with the public, contractors, design professionals, etc.

About the Department & County:

New Hanover County's Building Safety Department is comprised of a team of dedicated professionals who stay committed to the County's goal of intelligent growth and economic development by providing development services and code compliance. The Inspections division completes over 15,000 plan reviews and 80,000 inspections per year. Our approach focuses on compliance, rather than enforcement, in an effort to remain effective, ef?cient, consistent, responsive and easy to do business with as we strive to assist New Hanover County to be viewed as the model of good governance. The ideal candidate for this position will have knowledge and experience with North Carolina codes, and in particular, Building and any other trade discipline, excellent written and oral communication skills, computer skills, and excellent professional and interpersonal skills. The position requires great ?exibility to assist with ?eld inspections, when needed for ensuring customer service and satisfaction.

• Employer paid 401k contributions;
• Retirement plan through the NC Retirement system;
• Flex time and telework availability, depending on your position;
• Paid sick and personal leave + 13 paid holidays per year;
• Paid parental leave;
• Paid community services leave to give back to our community;
• Education leave to obtain a degree within your line of work;
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance + many other insurance options;
• Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center;
• Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives;
• Opportunities to make a difference in your community;
• And so much more!

• Three (3) years of experience in residential and commercial plans review and project management and ability to obtain Code Enforcement Certifications as specified below.
• Level III certification in Building and a Level II certification in another trade area, preferably Mechanical. Applicants selected with Probationary level certifications must obtain Standard level certifications within the time frame allowed by the issuing authority.
  • Additional certifications are preferred: Electrical Level II or III (Probationary or Standard).

• Must have computer skills sufficient to perform inspections and enter field data by using iPads, and using iPhones to perform inspections remotely and communicate with customers, peers, supervisor, and fellow-employees.

Licenses/Certifications:

• Valid Driver's License and good driving record required at time of application.
• Valid North Carolina Driver's License required by first date of employment with good driving record.
• Must have a Level III certification in Building and a Level I certification in another trade area.
  • Additional certifications in Plumbing, Fire, or Mechanical

• Applicants selected with Probationary level certifications must obtain Standard level certifications within the time frame allowed by the issuing authority.

Closing Date: This position is posted continuously until filled with a priority application date of Monday, May 25, 2026.

Applicant Information:
After the closing date for this position, applications will be screened by Human Resources. Applicants referred to the department will receive an email requesting important information pertinent to the position applied for. All updates regarding an application can be viewed through your applicant portal.

Submitted applications must include copies of any certifications earned from the NC Qualification Board.

New Hanover County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.