Permit Technician

Overview

The City of Destin is seeking a dedicated Permit Technician to provide critical administrative support within the Community Development Department. This position requires technical expertise to assist the public with permit applications and the processing and issuance of building permits.

Key Responsibilities

• Uphold the values and mission of Team Destin while maintaining a professional and respectful appearance and demeanor at all times.
• Support departmental goals by contributing effectively to team efforts and community objectives.
• Maintain thorough knowledge of relevant policies, codes, ordinances, regulations, and statutes applicable to permitting processes.
• Familiarize with key divisional functions and procedural workflows.
• Examine permit applications and related documents to ensure accuracy, completeness, and adherence to Florida laws, building codes, and city ordinances.
• Identify permit types, plans, and processing requirements for incoming applications.
• Conduct routine and complex administrative tasks including data entry, record keeping, basic calculations, and report preparation.
• Track and manage the status of permit applications and associated plans through the permitting process.
• Review, process, and issue permits for building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and related work as authorized.
• Calculate fees for permits based on established fee schedules.
• Organize, maintain, and securely store official applicant records.
• Arrange and coordinate inspections between contractors and city inspectors at job sites.
• Review documentation completeness to facilitate the preparation of Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Completion.
• Respond to public inquiries regarding permit status, licensure, and related topics.
• Redirect inquiries for properties outside city limits to the appropriate authorities.
• Verify contractor registration documents to ensure compliance with city and state regulations before permit issuance.
• Undertake other duties as assigned within the scope of the role.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience: Minimum of two years performing responsible and technical administrative duties in construction-related environments, or equivalent experience and training.
• Licenses: Valid Florida driver's license required; Public Notary certification preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of departmental practices, policies, and procedures.
• Familiarity with Florida statutes, building codes, construction terminology, and processes.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans effectively.
• Competence in operating office equipment such as copiers and multi-line telephone systems.
• Proficiency with computer applications related to data entry, word processing, and accounting.
• Capability to assess functional, technical, and structural data against standards.
• Skilled in preparing reports with correct grammar, punctuation, and formatting.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact tactfully with staff, supervisors, the public, and officials, resolving conflicts constructively.
• Ability to manage high stress situations involving deadlines and heavy workloads.
• Comfortable reading diverse professional and technical documents and instructional materials.
• Quick learner with the ability to grasp subject-related principles and techniques.
• Independent decision-making within authorized duties.
• Aptitude to expand knowledge related to primary work responsibilities.
• Color differentiation capabilities.
• Effective communication and organization skills.

Physical Requirements

The employee must be capable of operating various office machines and moving job-related materials as required to perform essential functions.

Career Development

• Opportunities to participate in continuing education such as seminars and coursework.
• Involvement in training either as a participant or instructor.
• Membership in professional or technical associations.
• Participation on city committees.
• Volunteering for special projects and cross-training roles.
• Commitment to city mission and quality improvement initiatives.

Additional Information

This position offers a full-time schedule with an hourly wage ranging from $17.46 to $20.52 based on qualifications. The employment package includes benefits such as medical, dental, vision, life insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. This role is classified as non-exempt under FLSA with grade 103. Background checks are mandatory. The job description may be modified at the city’s discretion and does not create an employment contract.