Chief of Commercial Plan Review

Safe construction from the ground up – that’s our commitment to excellence. If this is your passion too, we may be looking for you.

About the role

This position is responsible for leading the Commercial Plan Review Division and ensuring consistent enforcement of the applicable provisions of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (VUSBC). The successful candidate will supervise a team of four Commercial Plan Examiners and one Senior Customer Service Representative while fostering a collaborative, customer-focused work environment.

Our department is committed to delivering exceptional customer service with a result-oriented approach. We partner with our customers to facilitate safe, code-compliant construction through timely, consistent, and practical code enforcement. Our mission is not to hinder the construction process, but to help projects move forward efficiently while protecting the health, safety, and welfare of our community.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural and non-structural plan reviews of construction documents to verify compliance with the VUSBC, including:
  • Building occupancy and use
  • Height and area limitations
  • Construction types
  • Fire-resistant construction
  • Fire protection systems
  • Means of egress
  • Structural systems
  • Other applicable code requirements
• Serve as the primary resource for resolving complex code interpretations and providing guidance on technical and administrative matters related to the VUSBC.
• Support inspectors, design professionals, contractors, developers, and staff by:
  • Answering technical questions
  • Interpreting code requirements
  • Maintaining records in various computer systems
  • Ensuring consistent application of the building code
• Address customer concerns related to plan review, permitting, and construction issues.
• Explain commercial plan review and inspection processes.
• Work proactively to identify solutions that facilitate timely permit issuance while maintaining full code compliance.
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with contractors, architects, engineers, county staff, and residents.
• Represent Chesterfield County in state and national code development processes by being active in committees and professional organizations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in architecture, building construction, engineering, or a related field.
• Seven (7) years of increasing responsibility in commercial plan review, building design, or code administration, including at least two (2) years of supervisory or lead role experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Must possess or obtain the following certifications from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development:
  • Commercial Building Plans Examiner (within 18 months of hire)
  • Fire Protection Plans Examiner (within 18 months of hire)
  • Commercial Building Inspector (within 18 months of hire)
  • Certified Building Official (within 36 months of employment)
• Ability to perform engineering calculations.
• Full understanding of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, referenced model codes, and referenced engineering standards.
• Ability to utilize a personal computer and associated software including word processing and spreadsheets.
• Ability to work with people at all levels of county government and the citizens the county serves.
• Pre-employment drug testing, FBI criminal background check, and education/degree verification required.

Challenges

This is hard work with multiple challenges that are sometimes frustrating. Often, the plans submitted lack detail or were prepared by someone not proficient with the building code. Disagreements about code interpretations are common, and you will need to maintain a cool head and professionalism in tough situations. You must consistently enforce a complex building code, manage coordination with multiple departments, keep track of numerous processes, and effectively manage a heavy volume of work daily. You will also need to treat each customer with a "customer is always right" attitude, regardless of the situation.

Schedule

Monday - Friday; 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.