Address
SalaryPosition Description
*** SPECIAL NOTE***
**Planning & Development is looking to fill Two regular positions and One project position of limited duration that is expected to end December 31, 2026, unless extended. **The Planning and Development Services Department is recruiting for the classified and represented position of Permit Specialist for the Permit Services Division. The Permit Services Division is responsible for most of the customer engagement during pre-development, initial customer interface, permit processing and fee collection, and customer outreach.
Under direction of the assigned team’s supervisor and Senior Permit Specialists, the Permit Specialist operates as the central hub for permitting and communication for our customers and for internal staff. Permit Specialists provide front line customer service, answering questions related to permitting and processes, or re-directing customer inquiries to other departments as appropriate. During construction, the Permit Specialist remains a central point of contact for the customer as any additional needs arise including deferred submittals, field revisions, and inspections.
Our Ideal Candidate is a person who:
- Possesses strong organizational skills and self-motivation;
- Has an excellent work ethic;
- Is a team player and has the ability to develop and maintain positive working relationships with management, staff, the public, contractors, utility companies, and public agencies;
- Adapts to change well;
- Is able to multi-task and effectively communicate on multiple communication platforms;
- Understands regulatory requirements;
- Is competent in the operation of cloud based software and multiple communication applications including Microsoft Teams and Zoom.
- Has the ability to work independently and display sound judgment at all times; and
- Has the ability to effectively utilize computer applications and technology related to permitting and inspection.
Tacoma, the City of Destiny, has a workforce of dedicated, talented employees with unique skills and perspectives. We embrace innovation and strive for excellence and community engagement. The Principles that Guide Us, Integrity, Service, Excellence and Equity, speak to the values that we embody as City of Tacoma employees, and represent the core of our work in public service.
Essential Duties:
- Assist customers in person, by phone and by email with questions, demonstrating high customer service, efficiency and teamwork.
- Explains department policy and procedures; read, interpret, and explain the development and application process to the public.
- Receives inquiries from permit applicants and other interested parties regarding permit requirements, fees, and process. Identifies codes and ordinances which may apply to projects and provide related information to applicants. Advises applicants of requirements of the permit process and refers them to other staff divisions or departments where appropriate
- Review over the counter applications, route for review and issue permits as appropriate for the Planning and Development Services Department including building, land use and site development permits.
- Receive, review and process a variety of forms, applications and plans necessary for issuance of development and construction permits.
- Where still applicable, compute fees due and collect monies; issue permits and receipts; balance cash drawer daily.
- Using GIS and other tools, provide detailed and accurate information regarding the existence, location, type and extent of public improvements such as street, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, sidewalks, curbs, pavements and others; provide a variety of information in person, via email or on the telephone regarding permit requirements, building codes and regulations to realtors, developers, architects, contractors, engineers and the general public.
- Review small scale, non-complex plans and specifications to assure compliance with a variety of private and public property construction codes; recommend corrections to possible code violations.
- Communicate with personnel from other departments regarding zoning requirements, legal descriptions, boundaries, public improvement locations and other permit-related issues.
- Receive and route a variety of plans, specifications and other documents in accordance with established procedures.
- Operate a variety of office equipment including computer and associated software, phones, printers, copiers and related equipment.
- Work safely and cooperatively with other co-workers and the public.
- May perform other related work.
Office and permit counter environment.
Incumbents are subject to frequent interruptions and extensive contact with the public.
City of Tacoma Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Tacoma's diversity is its greatest asset. Tacoma embraces its multi-cultural and multi-ethnic character. Communities of color and immigrant communities are fundamental to Tacoma's entrepreneurial spirit, workforce, and long-term success. In Tacoma, equity and empowerment are top priorities, meaning that all Tacoma residents must have equitable opportunities to reach their full potential and share in the benefits of community progress. One of our goals is for the City of Tacoma workforce to reflect the community it serves. We actively work to eliminate racial and other disparities and welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds and/or multicultural skill sets and experiences. Our goal is for Tacoma to be an inclusive and equitable place to live, work, and play.
Qualifications
- Graduation from high school or equivalent, supplemented by course work in blueprint reading, basic electricity, drafting, mathematics or related subjects.
- One year of experience performing engineering aide work; building construction work; title research or work with codes and/or permits, all involving substantial public contact.
LICENSES, CERTIFICATES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS
International Code Council (ICC) Permit Technician Certification obtained prior to end of probationary period with maintenance thereafter.
Desired Qualifications:
- Two years as a Permit Specialist/Technician.
- Current International Code Council Permit Technician Certification.
- Multilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
- Prior experience providing excellent customer service in a fast paced, front facing environment.
Knowledge & Skills
- City zoning ordinances, building codes and specialized regulations related to permit issuance.
- Materials, methods and safety standards of building and street construction.
- Standards and specifications for street and sewer improvement plans.
- Understanding of City government services and processes.
- Demonstrate interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.
- Dependable and consistent team collaboration.
- Competent use of computer applications including permitting software and related databases.
- Record-keeping techniques.
- Technical aspects of field of specialty.
- Telephone techniques and etiquette.
- Read and interpret maps, blueprints and legal descriptions.
- Analyze, interpret and accurately review construction and improvement plans and specifications.
- Maintain records, files and logs.
- Establish and maintain positive working relations with other employees, the general public and representatives of other agencies.
- Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Operate a variety of office equipment.
- Meet schedules and time lines.
- Work independently with little direction.
- Complete work with many interruptions.
Selection Process & Supplemental Information
*** SPECIAL NOTE***
**Planning & Development is looking to fill Two regular positions and One project position of limited duration that is expected to end December 31, 2026, unless extended. **
To be considered for this career opportunity:
Please apply onlinethrough the City of Tacoma's website and attach a detailed resume and cover letter that includes major responsibilities and accomplishments related to this position. Individuals must meet the minimum qualifications to progress in the examination process.
In order for your application materials to be considered, all information must be submitted by the closing date and time listed on this job announcement.
Candidates who are eligible for Veteran's Preference scoring criteria must attach a copy of their DD-214 member copy 4, (proof of military discharge form) at time of application, to be eligible for review for Veteran's Preference points, with redacted birth date and social security numbers.
Examination Process:
This is a competitive selection process. Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will have their responses to the Supplemental Questions #8 - 14 reviewed and scored by a committee of subject matter experts, as the Experience and Training Test. It is the responsibility of the applicants to adequately describe all pertinent experience and training. Please make sure you read the questions and provide complete informative answers, including your roles in the position and key activities. DO NOT respond with "see resume" in lieu of answering these questions; this will result in a failing score.
Applicants who pass the test will be placed on an Eligible List for potential interview and hiring consideration.
Per City of Tacoma Personnel Management Policy #170, the City of Tacoma is a drug-free work environment. Appointment is subject to successful completion of a pre-employment background and reference check.
This position is covered by a Labor Agreement between The City of Tacoma and the Local 17 PTE. New employees must successfully complete a nine-month probationary period prior to obtaining permanent status in this classification.
WHY WORK FOR THE CITY?
The City of Tacoma offers a generous program of employee benefits:
- Outstanding working conditions and an exceptional quality-of-life environment.
- Medical coverage for eligible employees, spouses and dependents, including children up to age 26.
- Vision care with VSP for employees and eligible dependents enrolled in the Regence PPO medical plan with vision benefits.
- Dental coverage for eligible employees and their elected dependents, including dependent children up to the age of 26.
- Deferred compensation allowing tax-deferred savings as authorized under Section 457 of the IRS Code.
- Personal time off.
- Paid holidays.
- A great pension plan.
The City of Tacoma
Tacoma is a mid-sized urban port city that sits along the Puget Sound with a population of nearly 210,000. The third largest city in the state of Washington, it is a diverse, progressive international gateway to the Pacific Rim.
The City of Tacoma supports a healthy work/life balance, continuing education programs, leadership pathways, wellness incentives and a total rewards benefits program. We welcome you to take a look at our website and discover how the City of Tacoma can make your next career move part of our combined destiny:
http://www.cityoftacoma.org/
http://www.traveltacoma.com/
The City of Tacoma believes that each employee makes a significant contribution to our success. This job description is designed to outline primary duties, qualifications and job scope. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
Communication from the City of Tacoma:
We primarily communicate via email during the application process. Emails from cityoftacoma.org and/or governmentjobs.com must be placed on your safe domain list to ensure that you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk email folders.
In order for your application materials to be considered, all information must be submitted by the closing date and time listed on this job announcement.
For assistance with the NEOGOV application process, or questions regarding this job announcement, please call Human Resources at (253) 591.5400 before 4:00 pm of the closing date of the job announcement.
Agency
City of Tacoma
Address
Human Resources Department
747 Market Street
Tacoma, Washington, 98402-3764
Phone
253-591-5400
Website
http://www.cityoftacoma.org
