Salary: $88,924.00 - $120,046.00 Annually
Location : Chesterfield, VA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 27-00131
Department: Building Inspections
Opening Date: 08/10/2026
Closing Date: 9/6/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

Minimum Qualifications

What You Do and How You Do It:

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. Key responsibilities include performing structural and non-structural plan reviews of construction documents to verify compliance with the VUSBC. Reviews encompass building occupancy and use, height and area limitations, construction types, fire-resistant construction, fire protection systems, means of egress, structural systems, and other applicable code requirements. This position serves as the primary resource for resolving complex code interpretations and providing guidance on technical and administrative matters related to the VUSBC. The incumbent will support inspectors, design professionals, contractors, developers, and staff by answering technical questions, interpreting code requirements, maintaining records in various computer systems, and ensuring consistent application of the building code. This position is also responsible for addressing customer concerns related to plan review, permitting, and construction issues; explaining commercial plan review and inspection processes; and working proactively to identify solutions that facilitate timely permit issuance while maintaining full code compliance. Building and maintaining effective working relationships with contractors, architects, engineers, county staff, and residents is essential to the success of this role. In addition, the position represents Chesterfield County in state and national code development processes by being active in committees, and professional organizations. Other duties may be assigned as required.

Here's What You Need:

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.

The successful candidate must possess or obtain the following certifications from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development:

• Must possess or obtain within 18 months of hire - Commercial Building Plans Examiner; Fire Protection Plans Examiner and Commercial Building Inspector
• Must possess or obtain within 36 months of employment - Certified Building Official

You must be able to perform engineering calculations; have a 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 in all levels of county government and the citizens the county serves.

Pre-employment drug testing, FBI criminal background check and education/degree verification required.

Real Talk:

We'll be honest - this is hard work with multiple challenges that are sometimes frustrating. Often, the plans submitted lack detail or were prepared by someone that is not proficient with the building code. Disagreements about code interpretations are common and you will need to maintain a cool head and your professionalism in some tough situations. In our line of work, we need to treat each customer with a "customer is always right attitude", regardless of the situation. You need to consistently enforce a complex building code, manage coordination with multiple departments, keep track of numerous processes and effectively manage a heavy volume of work on a daily basis. But if you're committed to ensuring construction safety and building code compliance in a First Choice Community - getting it done right the first time - Principal Plan Review Engineer may be the career for you.

Still Interested?

Click the "apply" link above to complete and submit an application by September 6, 2026.

Shift

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

Building Inspections

For information on county benefits, view