Salary : $45,510.40 - $55,952.00 Annually
Location : Charlottesville (22902), VA
Job Type : Regular Full-Time
Job Number : 241200045
Department : Neighborhood Development Services
Division : Neighborhood Development Services
Opening Date : 02 / 06 / 2025
Closing Date : 2 / 26 / 2025 5 : 00 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit : N / A
General Summary
The Permit Technician performs responsible front-line customer service, clerical, and support services work related to permitting activities and operations such as but not limited to processing and verifying applications for compliance, accepting fees, and scheduling inspections. Work is performed under general supervision and reports to the Building Code Official.
To learn more about the Department of Neighborhood Development Services, please visit :
The preferred hiring amount for this positions is between $21.88 - $26.90 an hour ($45,510.40 - $55,952 annually). Starting offer is based on applicable education, experience, and internal equity. This is a full-time, non-exempt, position which provides excellent benefits including 13 paid holidays plus 1 floating holiday, paid vacation and sick leave, health insurance options with employer contribution, employer-paid life insurance, City's retirement options, gym membership reimbursement, tuition reimbursement, and continuing education / training opportunities.
- For a general summary of benefits offered by the City, please click the 'benefits' tab on this posting, or visit
- The City of Charlottesville manages its own retirement system which offers both a defined benefit and a defined contribution option. While the City does not participate in VRS, the City has a Portability Agreement with VRS and there are certain provisions that must be met. For questions pertaining to the Portability Agreement, please contact the City's Benefits Administrator at 434-970-3462.
Essential Responsibilities and Duties
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations will be considered to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The essential functions of the job are not limited to those listed in the job description. The City retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.
Serves as a first point of contact for the Department for walk-ins and calls, including general clerical support, greeting visitors and referring to appropriate city staff, answering routine questions, providing general information about department programs, policies, and procedures.Coordinates the permit process for building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, rental, and other zoning permit applications; research, reviews, and verifies applications for compliance with public utilities, engineering, and zoning requirements.Reviews, processes, and issues building permits electronically or in-person.Verifies that plans are complete and that all required information has been submitted sufficiently for review by the appropriate department.Verifies and updates proper and current contractor and business licensing by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) and the City.Schedules building inspections.Performs work in specific processes, as assigned, such as : Certificates of Occupancy, Fire Protection Systems, and Online Permitting.Assists customers in reviewing the necessary documents for approvals provided by multiple City Departments prior to application and associated documentation acceptance and issuing appropriate permit from Neighborhood Development Services.Determines the appropriate departments to review specific applications.Provides information, as requested, to the public regarding building code regulations, city code, permitting policies, procedures and licensing requirements.Prepares correspondence and responds to inquiries regarding permits, process, procedures and handles complaints via email, telephone, and / or in person.Interacts with outside architectural / engineering and design firms, contractors and homeowners via in-person, telephone and / or e-mail.Refers callers to the appropriate City departments and agencies as needed. Follows-up and gathers information from various City Departments, as directed or needed.Establishes and maintains accurate, up-to-date, record-keeping systems for various data and documents; creates applicable reports.Effectively utilizes specialized software programs, including permit-tracking software.Conducts research, requests records, makes copies, and provides information and documents as requested.Copies, scans, and prints plans and related paperwork in the prescribed format.Accepts payments for services provided, which includes calculating permit fees based on established fee schedule and balancing daily permit receipts.Reviews and reconciles bookkeeping entries and advises the Building Code Official and Support Services Manager of issues.Responsible for appropriate use and maintenance of City equipment, tools, and other resources, including work time.Regular and reliable attendance.Other Duties :
Performs additional duties to support operational requirements as apparent or assigned.Education, Experience and Skills
Education and Experience : Candidates may qualify by demonstrating the required knowledge and skills outlined for the job through experience(s) other than formal education.
High School Diploma or GED AND at least 3 years of work experience PLUS general knowledge in at least one of the following areas : building construction; building construction conceptual and administrative processes; building, fire or housing inspections; plumbing, electrical or mechanical trades; or fire protection, elevator or property maintenance work.An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of the specific requirements listed above that would confer equivalent knowledge and ability. (13VAC5-63-50, Code of Virginia)Certifications / Licenses / Other Requirements :
Within 12 months of start date, must obtain and maintain completion of the International Code Council (ICC) and Virginia Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) Permit Technician Certification.Required to successfully pass a pre-employment background check and pre-employment drug screen.Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics :
Job Knowledge :
Learn and accurately apply the administrative provisions of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and City Code.Learn and accurately apply the City of Charlottesville permit process and requirements to obtain and maintain construction related permits.General knowledge of basic planning terminology, local ordinances, state laws, and licensing and documentation requirements.General knowledge of records management and the Freedom of Information Act requirements.Reading :
Intermediate : ability to read and understand written materials such as permit applications, city and state code, newspapers, magazines, multi-step instruction manuals, and reference materials.Writing :
Basic : ability to write simple letters, paragraphs and sentences containing subject, verb, and object, and / or series of numbers, names, and addresses.Math :
Intermediate : ability to deal with number systems; simple formulas, practical application of fractions, percentages, ratios / proportions and measurement.Applies systematic multi-factor analysis, trend analysis, and other forms of data analysis.Communication Skills :
Intermediate : Establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, city staff, contractors, property owners, vendors, and the public. Provides standard information to others. Contacts may involve stressful, negative interactions requiring high levels of tact and the ability to respond to aggressive interpersonal interactions. Elements of persuasion may be necessary to gain cooperation and acceptance of ideas.Independence and Decision-Making :
Requires General Direction : normally performs the job by following general instructions or established standard operating procedures and / or policies. There is some discretion when making decisions among a few easily identifiable choices of the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties. Performance is reviewed frequently.Technical Skills :
Skilled : comprehensive, practical knowledge of a technical field with use of analytical judgment and decision-making abilities appropriate to the assigned and apparent job responsibilities. Intermediate skill in the use of Microsoft Office applications and departmental software.Fiscal Responsibilities :
Prepares and processes purchasing documents and payments.Supervisory Responsibilities :
No responsibility for direction or supervision of others.Other Characteristics :
Excellent customer service skills.Organization and time management skills, sometimes under strict time constraints.Working closely with others as part of a team.Tedious or exacting work.Performing multiple tasks simultaneously.Frequent interruptions and requests for service.Must work effectively with sensitive and confidential issues.May require dealing with angry, frustrated and / or upset individuals.Physical Conditions & Additional Information
Physical Demands :
Light Work : Exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally, and / or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and / or a negligible amount of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects.Remains in a stationary position to a significant degree.Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer. Constantly moves about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.Must be able to communicate information and ideas so others will understand. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.Ability to observe details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).Machines, Tools, Equipment, Software and Hardware :
Typically requires use of standard office equipment and telephone, and related software and hardware; and any other equipment as appropriate or as assigned.Work Environment :
Work is performed in an office environment where there may be exposure to computer screen for extended periods of time, monitor glare, and dust.The noise level is typically moderate.The City of Charlottesville is an Equal Opportunity Employer and supports workforce diversity at all levels of the organization. The City prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. The City is dedicated to this with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, access to facilities and programs, and general treatment during employment.
Requests for reasonable accommodation by individuals with disabilities may be requested by contacting Human Resources at (434) 970-3490 or
The City of Charlottesville conducts job related background checks, reference checks, and pre-employment drug tests, in accordance with federal, state, and local law, of applicants who reach the final stages of the employment selection process. The City's policy has not changed because of the decriminalization of marijuana in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Marijuana remains an illegal drug under federal law, and it continues to be a violation of the US Department of Transportation regulations and the City's policy prohibiting employees from testing positive for marijuana.
SUMMARY OF EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Updated July 1, 2022
Benefits cited represent those for regular 40-hour employees and may differ for Management Level, Part-Time, and / or Library positions. Long-term temporary employees are eligible for all benefits except retirement. Interns, temporary, seasonal, substitute, and relief employees are not eligible for benefits.
1. LEAVE :
Vacation :3.09 hours accrued biweekly0 -
3.85 hours accrued biweekly3 -4.62 hours accrued biweekly5 -5.40 hours accrued biweekly10 -6.16 hours accrued biweekly15 -6.93 hours accrued biweekly20 -7.70 hours accrued biweekly25 yearsSick :4.62 hours per biweekly pay period, approximately 120 hours a years, no limit on accumulation
Holidays :14 paid holidays per calendar year (13 observed and 1 floating)
2. INSURANCE :
Aetna Medical -Choose from three options with different premiums and levels of coverage and coverage is effective on the first of the month following date of hire :
HMO : $0 premium for employee only coverage
POS 1 : Employee-only premium of $36.28 per biweekly payPOS 2 : Employee-only premium of $13.02 per biweekly payDependent coverage is available but the cost of the premium is not subsidized.)
Prescription Card ($10 generic, $30 lower cost name brand, $55 higher cost name brand)Mail Order Maintenance Prescription Drug Program ($20 generic, $60 lower cost name brand, $110 higher cost brand)Dental (Delta Dental)No cost for employee only coverage. Dependent coverage is available but the cost of the premium is not subsidized.
Diagnosis and Preventive100% of allowable charge; Basic Dental Care - 80%; Major Dental Care - 50%Primary$50 deductible, 80 / 20Prosthetic & Complex Restorative$50 deductible, 50 / 501,500 maximum annual benefit1,000 Orthodontic BenefitMetLife Vision Plan : OptionalEmployee only coverage : $2.50 bi-weekly; Dependent coverage also available at differing rates.
Eye health exam, dilatation, prescription and refraction of glasses covered after $10 co-pay;130 allowance for frames, after co-pay, plus additional discounts where accepted.Life :Two times annual salary (paid by the City)
Optional supplemental life available for employee, spouse, dependents (paid by employee)AFLAC : OptionalCancer / accident / short term disability / intensive care insurance (paid by employee)
Long Term DisabilityProtection from income loss due to long-term illness or injury (paid by the City)
3. RETIREMENT : The City of Charlottesville manages its own retirement system and does not participate in VRS, however the City has a Portability Agreement with VRS. There are certain provisions that must be met and the portability request must be executed within 18 months of vesting in the City's Plan.
Pension :Choose from two options :
A Defined Benefit Pension plan pays a monthly benefit in retirement using a defined formula based on the employee's earnings history, tenure of service, and age. Our plan has a 5 year vesting period and an employee contribution of 5% of salary.
A Defined Contribution 401a plan in which fixed contributions are paid into an individual's account by the employer, the contributions are invested, returns (positive or negative) are credited to the account, and the account balance is used to provide retirement benefits. The vesting schedule for our 401a plan is 33% after one year of service, 67% after two years of service, and 100% after three years of service. There is no required contribution from salary. (Note that : the Defined Contribution retirement plan is the only plan available for Library employees)Supplemental :Deferred Compensation (457) - employee contribution
4. OTHER BENEFITS :
Flexible Spending Accounts :Health Care Expenses
Dependent Care ExpensesParking / Mass Transit ExpensesParking Subsidy of $50 per monthWellness Programs :Gym Reimbursement Program
Monthly On-Site Nurse and Annual Flu ShotsHealth Screenings and Fairs, Education Sessions, & Weekly Fitness ClassesWeight Watchers at WorkBike Commuter Program :Reimbursement of up to $20 per month for reasonable bike commuting expenses
Employee Assistance Program :A variety of confidential, personal professional services for you and your family available 24 hours a day.
Tuition Reimbursement Program :Up to $1,500 for undergraduate OR Up to $3,000 for graduate level tuition per fiscal year per employee.
Do you possess a High School Diploma or GED?
Yes; I have a High School Diploma, GED, or higher.Please indicate your level of experience : (Must be verifiable in reference to the work history section on your online application.)
Less than three years of work experience.Three to less than five years of work experience.Five years or greater.Of the following, select those fields in which you have direct work experience and / or general knowledge of. (check ALL that apply).
Building constructionBuilding construction conceptual and administrative processesBuilding, fire or housing inspectionsPlumbing, electrical or mechanical tradesFire protection, elevator or property maintenance work.A combination of education and experience which would equal equivalent knowledge and ability to perform the job.None of the aboveThis position requires obtaining and maintaining the International Code Council (ICC) and Virginia Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) Permit Technician Certifications within 12 months of the start date. If selected as a finalist, do you have the ability and willingness to obtain these certifications within the required timeframe?
Please briefly describe your general knowledge or experience in at least one of the following areas : building construction; building construction conceptual and administrative processes; building, fire or housing inspections; plumbing, electrical or mechanical trades; or fire protection, elevator or property maintenance work. If no knowledge or experience, please write 'none.'
To be considered, qualifying education and experience, including City of Charlottesville employment, must be clearly documented in the education, work history, and additional information sections of the employment application. Resumes can be attached but should not be used as a substitute for the required information on the application. I understand that an attached resume may not be accepted in place of a completed employment application and that my qualifications should be stated on the employment application itself.
I certify that the information above is true and correct, and I certify that it can be verified with reference to the information in my basic application. I understand that my application may be rejected if the responses to supplemental questions do not match my basic application.
Required Question
Salary : $45,510 - $55,952
