Starting Pay: $34.34/hour
Increases to: $36.03/hour after six months

Play a key role in shaping safe, high-quality development in our community as a Plan Examiner. You will review and evaluate construction plans to ensure compliance with building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical codes, while partnering with Fire, Economic & Community Development, and Public Works Departments, architects, engineers, contractors, and developers to support successful projects. This position offers the opportunity to apply your technical expertise, solve complex code challenges, and make a lasting impact on the growth and safety of our city.

Enjoy a generous package of perks including:

• Competitive Benefits: 14.5 paid holidays (including 2 personal days), vacation and sick leave, health insurance, and an excellent pension plan.
• Dedicated Health Center: Free employee and dependent care services including checkups, labs, chronic condition management, and many prescriptions.

Plan Review & Code Compliance

• Review and evaluate construction plans for compliance with municipal building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical codes,
• Prepare detailed written reports identifying deficiencies and providing guidance to address design inadequacies.
• Process incoming plans efficiently while maintaining accurate records and permit status documentation.

• Facilitate meetings with residents, contractors, building owners, and design professionals to resolve code-related issues.
• Interpret and explain applicable codes to architects, engineers, contractors, developers, and property owners.
• Assist the Building Official with technical information, building design criteria, and guidance on modern construction materials and methods.

• Research codes and ordinances to evaluate and recommend improvements.
• Evaluate alternative construction methods for code compliance and intent.
• Maintain data accuracy in the online permit system and support departmental operations.

Needed Knowledge & Skills

• Comprehensive knowledge of building design systems and construction principles.
• Thorough understanding of state and municipal building codes and regulations.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting construction plans, specifications, and blueprints.
• Strong analytical skills to compare designs against code requirements.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Proven ability to work professionally with design professionals in both routine and complex situations.

• Bachelor's degree in architecture, engineering, building technology, or related field.
• Experience in code enforcement or plan review work preferred.
• Or any equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the required knowledge and abilities.
• International Code Council (ICC) Plans Examiner Certification or ability to obtain within one year of employment.

Examination Process

1. Written Examination Applicants will be required to take a written examination tailored to this position. Applicants are required to score at least 70.00%.
2. Oral Interview Applicants passing the written test must pass an oral interview with a minimum score of 70.00%.
3. Veteran Points Applicants passing the written test and oral interview may be eligible to receive 5.00 veteran preference points added to their final examination score.
4. Seniority Points Applicable persons passing the written test and oral interview will receive 0.50 seniority preference points for each full year of continuous City of Decatur AFSCME service. A maximum of 10.0 points may be added to the final examination score.

• Affordable Living: Ranked the #1 Best Affordable Place to Live in the U.S. (2025–2026) by U.S. News & World Report, offering a low cost of living and attainable housing options.
• Central Location: Within easy reach of Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis—ideal for day trips and regional travel.
• Land of Lincoln: Close to nationally recognized Lincoln historic sites, including the Lincoln Home and Lincoln's Tomb.
• Shopping & Dining: Find unique boutiques, specialty shops, and a wide range of locally owned restaurants.
• Entertainment Options: Enjoy concerts at the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, performances at Millikin University, and classic shows at the Lincoln Theatre.
• Outdoor Recreation: Take advantage of Lake Decatur for boating and kayaking, plus more than 2,000 acres of parks for golf, walking, biking, disc golf, and dog-friendly spaces.
• Arts & Culture: Explore murals and public sculptures throughout the community, from downtown to the lakefront.
• Family Activities: Visit Splash Cove waterpark, Overlook Adventure Park, and the Scovill Zoo for year-round family fun.