Plans Examiner Specialist

About the Department

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 applicable local construction ordinances, and inspect new and existing residential and commercial structures, as needed, to ensure compliance with applicable standards, laws, and ordinances.

This position is also responsible for maintaining accurate records of inspections and plan reviews performed and verifying state licensing requirements for engineers, architects and contractors.

The position serves as an SME for customers and field staff and mentors plan reviewers.

The Plans Examiner Specialist assists with training and researching codes to respond to inquiries and meets with customers on-site to address their needs.

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, efficient, 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 flexibility to assist with field inspections, when needed for ensuring customer service and satisfaction.

Also, must be pre-qualified by the NC Office of State Fire Marshal or have NC certificates in Building, Electrical, Mechanical, or Plumbing before salary negotiations can begin.

New Hanover County is dedicated to the recruitment and recognition of a talented and diverse workforce that is committed to public service.

Our shared values of professionalism, innovation, equity, integrity, stewardship and accountability guide the way we conduct ourselves and deliver services to our customers.

New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees’ backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities, while supporting growth opportunities for all.

Our talented team has a passion for providing care and services that effect change on the everyday lives of the citizens they encounter.

The differences that unite us are a reflection of the community we serve.

If this sounds like an organization that models the values you uphold, we invite you to join our team at New Hanover County.

Living in New Hanover County, NC: New Hanover County offers an exceptional quality of life with its picturesque coastal location.

Enjoy the stunning beaches, water activities, and a variety of recreational opportunities right at your doorstep.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, indulge in diverse dining experiences, and explore historical landmarks.

The county is known for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a thriving arts scene.

With a focus on good governance and a commitment to customer service, New Hanover County provides an ideal environment for both personal and professional growth. * * * * Hours: Hours are 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday through Friday.

Must be available to work during emergency situations.

Information: The hiring range for this position is $59,168- $100,586 + a competitive benefits package.

Pay zones are determined based on the number of level III certifications one possesses.

is negotiable based on the zone a candidate is hired into, related experience, and trade area certifications below a level III. New Hanover County offers: 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! Please check out our careers page at www.nhcgov.com/careers for more information on why New Hanover County is a great place to work.

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, efficient, 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 flexibility to assist with field inspections, when needed for ensuring customer service and satisfaction.

Also, must be pre-qualified by the NC Office of State Fire Marshal or have NC certificates in Building, Electrical, Mechanical, or Plumbing before salary negotiations can begin.

• 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!

Required Education and Experience: Three (3) years of experience in residential and commercial plans review and the ability to obtain Code Enforcement Certifications as specified below.

Level III certification in Electrical and a Level II certification in another trade areal.

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

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.

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

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

• 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 Electrical and a Level II certification in another trade area.
• 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, July 20, 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 offers a competitive benefits package designed to encourage and support your health, well-being and productivity to include Employer paid 401k deferred compensation contributions (5% for sworn law enforcement and 2.5% for all other benefits eligible positions); Retirement plan through the NC Retirement system; 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, vision insurance + many other insurance options; Employee assistance program; 100% employer paid long term disability; Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center which includes a nurse practitioner and physical therapist; Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives; Opportunities to make a difference in your community; And so much more! Benefit options for eligible positions include medical, dental, elective supplemental insurance options including short-term disability, vision, flexible spending accounts, voluntary term life, cancer, accident, and critical illness policies. Employees who elect medical and dental insurance within the specified timelines provided during on-boarding, will have coverage effective on their date of hire. For more information about New Hanover County benefit options, including our benefit rates, please click here. Please check out our careers page at www.nhcgov.com/careers for more information on why New Hanover County is a great place to work. Note: All positions listed as temporary, casual part time, volunteer, and intern are not eligible to receive benefits. P art-time position with fewer than 20 scheduled hours per week will not include benefits.

New Hanover County offers a competitive benefits package designed to encourage and support your health, well-being and productivity to include

• Employer paid 401k deferred compensation contributions (5% for sworn law enforcement and 2.5% for all other benefits eligible positions); Retirement plan through the NC Retirement system; 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, vision insurance + many other insurance options; Employee assistance program; 100% employer paid long term disability; Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center which includes a nurse practitioner and physical therapist; Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives; Opportunities to make a difference in your community; And so much more!
• Retirement plan through the NC Retirement system; 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, vision insurance + many other insurance options; Employee assistance program; 100% employer paid long term disability; Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center which includes a nurse practitioner and physical therapist; Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives; Opportunities to make a difference in your community; And so much more!
• 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, vision insurance + many other insurance options; Employee assistance program; 100% employer paid long term disability; Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center which includes a nurse practitioner and physical therapist; Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives; Opportunities to make a difference in your community; And so much more!
• 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, vision insurance + many other insurance options; Employee assistance program; 100% employer paid long term disability; Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center which includes a nurse practitioner and physical therapist; Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives; Opportunities to make a difference in your community; And so much more!
• Paid community services leave to give back to our community; Education leave to obtain a degree within your line of work; Medical, dental, vision insurance + many other insurance options; Employee assistance program; 100% employer paid long term disability; Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center which includes a nurse practitioner and physical therapist; Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives; Opportunities to make a difference in your community; And so much more!
• Education leave to obtain a degree within your line of work; Medical, dental, vision insurance + many other insurance options; Employee assistance program; 100% employer paid long term disability; Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center which includes a nurse practitioner and physical therapist; Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives; Opportunities to make a difference in your community; And so much more!
• Medical, dental, vision insurance + many other insurance options; Employee assistance program; 100% employer paid long term disability; Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center which includes a nurse practitioner and physical therapist; Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives; Opportunities to make a difference in your community; And so much more!
• Employee assistance program; 100% employer paid long term disability; Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center which includes a nurse practitioner and physical therapist; Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives; Opportunities to make a difference in your community; And so much more!
• 100% employer paid long term disability; Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center which includes a nurse practitioner and physical therapist; Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives; Opportunities to make a difference in your community; And so much more!
• Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center which includes a nurse practitioner and physical therapist; Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives; Opportunities to make a difference in your community; And so much more!
• Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives; Opportunities to make a difference in your community; And so much more!
• Opportunities to make a difference in your community; And so much more!
• And so much more!

Benefit options for eligible positions include medical, dental, elective supplemental insurance options including short-term disability, vision, flexible spending accounts, voluntary term life, cancer, accident, and critical illness policies.

Employees who elect medical and dental insurance within the specified timelines provided during on-boarding, will have coverage effective on their date of hire.

For more information about New Hanover County benefit options, including our benefit rates, please click here.

Please check out our careers page at www.nhcgov.com/careers for more information on why New Hanover County is a great place to work.

• Yes
• No
• NC Probationary or Standard Level II Building
• NC Probationary or Standard Level III Building
• I do not have either of these certifications.
• Yes
• No
• N/A: I have a NC Probationary or Standard Certification Level II or III
• NC Probationary or Standard Building Inspector Level I
• NC Probationary or Standard Building Inspector Level II
• NC Probationary or Standard Building Inspector Level III
• NC Probationary or Standard Mechanical Inspector Level I
• NC Probationary or Standard Mechanical Inspector Level II
• NC Probationary or Standard Mechanical Inspector Level III
• NC Probationary or Standard Electrical Inspector Level I
• NC Probationary or Standard Electrical Inspector Level II
• NC Probationary or Standard Electrical Inspector Level III
• NC Probationary or Standard Plumbing Inspector Level I
• NC Probationary or Standard Plumbing Inspector Level II
• NC Probationary or Standard Plumbing Inspector Level III
• NC Probationary or Standard Fire Inspector Level I
• NC Probationary or Standard Fire Inspector Level II
• NC Probationary or Standard Fire Inspector Level III
• No NC certifications
• Yes
• No
• Less than 1 year of experience
• 1 year but less than 2 years of experience
• 2 years but less than 3 years of experience
• 3 or more years of experience
• Yes
• No