Plan Reviewer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s rapidly evolving development landscape, the demand for skilled plan reviewers is more significant than ever.

Progress in the construction and engineering sector necessitates professionals who can meticulously examine, assess, and ensure compliance of proposed plans with established norms and standards.

So, what exactly are the expectations from a plan reviewer?

If you are:

• An aspiring candidate seeking to understand the complexities of this role,
• A hiring manager mapping out the perfect applicant,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate processes of plan reviewing,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable plan reviewer job description template, crafted for straightforward posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive straight in.

Plan Reviewer Duties and Responsibilities

Plan Reviewers play a crucial role in evaluating proposed plans and designs to ensure they are in compliance with applicable codes, ordinances, and regulations.

They work in a variety of sectors, including architecture, civil engineering, and construction.

Plan Reviewers have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Review plans, blueprints, and specifications for proposed construction projects
• Ensure that the proposed plans comply with zoning laws, building codes, and other relevant regulations
• Identify any discrepancies, violations, or deficiencies in the plans
• Provide detailed feedback and recommendations to correct any identified issues
• Communicate effectively with architects, engineers, and other project stakeholders to clarify and resolve plan issues
• Keep accurate records of plan reviews, including notes on any issues identified and actions taken
• Stay current on changes to building codes, zoning laws, and other regulations relevant to plan review
• Participate in pre-construction and planning meetings as needed
• Assist in the issuing of construction permits once plans have been approved

 

Plan Reviewer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent Plan Reviewer to join our team.

Your primary role will be to analyze and review plans, blueprints, and specifications for residential and commercial construction projects.

The Plan Reviewer’s responsibilities include ensuring compliance with building codes, zoning regulations, and other pertinent laws and regulations.

You will be required to work closely with project managers, architects, and engineers, providing feedback and making necessary corrections to the plans.

Our ideal candidate is detail-oriented, has a strong background in architecture or engineering, and possesses a deep understanding of building codes and safety regulations.

 

Responsibilities

• Review construction plans, blueprints, and specifications to ensure compliance with building codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards.
• Provide feedback to architects, engineers, and project managers regarding potential issues or needed corrections.
• Prepare reports detailing review findings and recommended actions.
• Communicate with local and state regulatory bodies as needed.
• Stay updated on changes in building codes and zoning regulations.
• Conduct site visits, when necessary, to verify compliance with plans.
• Work with various departments to expedite plan approval process.
• Participate in pre-construction and planning meetings.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Plan Reviewer, Architect, or in a similar role.
• Knowledge of building codes, zoning laws, and related regulations.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and construction plans.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Attention to detail and the ability to detect potential issues.
• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Civil Engineering, or a related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Plan Reviewer
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional site visits. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Plan Review Supervisor or Director of Planning.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Plan Reviewer Do?

Plan Reviewers primarily work in engineering, construction, and architectural firms.

They are also employed by government agencies to ensure proposed plans comply with local and national building codes and standards.

Their main job is to examine and analyze architectural and engineering plans and blueprints to ensure they comply with established regulations and standards.

This includes a thorough review of the proposed designs, specifications, and details.

They identify any potential issues or discrepancies within the plans and propose solutions to rectify them before the project begins.

They also ensure that the proposed plan meets safety standards and is built to withstand environmental and usage stresses.

Plan Reviewers also provide feedback to architects, engineers, and project managers about the feasibility of a design, offering suggestions on how to improve efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.

In some roles, Plan Reviewers may also be responsible for assessing whether a project meets sustainability or green building standards.

They may also attend project meetings to provide expert advice and ensure that all parties are on the same page regarding design and construction standards.

In the event of a construction dispute or legal issue, Plan Reviewers may be called upon to provide expert opinions based on their review of the plans and standards.

 

Plan Reviewer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Plan Reviewer should possess a set of qualifications and skills that are required to perform the job, which include:

• Analytical skills to review plans and documents efficiently, identifying any potential issues or deviations from guidelines and standards.
• Strong knowledge of planning laws, regulations, and guidelines to ensure that all reviews are in compliance with the relevant policies.
• Excellent attention to detail to ensure that all aspects of the plans are thoroughly reviewed and analyzed.
• Great communication skills to clearly explain the findings of the review, any issues identified, and possible solutions to the concerned parties.
• Interpersonal skills to work effectively with different stakeholders including architects, developers, and city or county officials.
• Technical skills to understand architectural and engineering plans, blueprints and schematics.
• Problem-solving skills to identify discrepancies in the plans and propose efficient and effective solutions.
• Time-management skills to ensure that all plan reviews are completed within the given deadlines.

 

Plan Reviewer Experience Requirements

Plan Reviewers typically need several years of experience in fields such as engineering, construction, or architecture.

This could be achieved through a combination of work experience and higher education.

Entry-level candidates for Plan Reviewer positions may have 2 to 3 years of experience in construction or design roles, either through full-time employment or internships.

They are usually expected to have an understanding of building codes, design principles, and construction practices.

For a mid-level Plan Reviewer role, candidates are usually required to have at least 4 to 5 years of experience.

This experience could have been gained as a Construction Inspector, Project Manager, or similar roles, where they have demonstrated an ability to review architectural plans and ensure compliance with various regulations and codes.

Candidates with over 7 years of experience may be considered for senior Plan Reviewer positions.

These individuals would have extensive experience in plan reviewing, ensuring adherence to laws and regulations, and possibly managing a team of Plan Reviewers.

They are often expected to have advanced knowledge of building codes, zoning laws, fire regulations, and other related regulations.

 

Plan Reviewer Education and Training Requirements

Plan Reviewers typically have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, architecture, or a related field.

They should possess a solid background in building design and construction, understanding various codes and regulations, and interpreting blueprints and technical documents.

Some roles may require a plan reviewer to have a master’s degree in a specialized area of construction or architecture, especially for large-scale or complex projects.

Certifications from recognized bodies like the International Code Council (ICC) can be beneficial and are sometimes required.

These certifications are evidence of a reviewer’s expertise in building codes and standards.

Plan Reviewers are also expected to have practical experience in the construction industry.

This could be gained through internships, cooperative education programs, or relevant work experience.

Continued professional development is important in this role due to the ever-evolving nature of building codes and regulations.

As such, plan reviewers are often expected to participate in ongoing training and education programs.

 

Plan Reviewer Salary Expectations

A Plan Reviewer earns an average salary of $64,000 (USD) per year.

This amount can fluctuate depending on the individual’s experience, the region in which they are working, and the specific industry within which they are employed.

 

Plan Reviewer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Plan Reviewer need?

A Plan Reviewer should have excellent analytical skills to examine and assess plans thoroughly.

They should also have strong attention to detail to identify potential issues or inconsistencies within the plans.

They must be skilled at understanding and interpreting construction codes, laws, and regulations.

Strong communication skills are also important for a Plan Reviewer as they need to effectively explain their findings and suggestions for improvement.

 

Do Plan Reviewers need a degree?

While a degree isn’t always necessary, many employers prefer Plan Reviewers who have a degree in engineering, architecture, or a related field.

Additionally, some employers may require certification from a recognized professional organization such as the International Code Council (ICC).

 

What should you look for in a Plan Reviewer resume?

When reviewing a Plan Reviewer’s resume, check for previous experience in reviewing and analyzing plans, especially within your industry.

Look for knowledge of relevant regulations and codes, as well as any certifications they may hold.

Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to communicate effectively are also important qualities to look for.

 

What qualities make a good Plan Reviewer?

A good Plan Reviewer should be highly detail-oriented and have a strong understanding of the construction process and building codes.

They should be able to interpret complex plans and specifications and identify any potential issues.

They should also have good communication skills to effectively explain their findings and suggestions.

 

What are the daily duties of a Plan Reviewer?

A Plan Reviewer typically spends their day reviewing and analyzing plans for construction projects.

They check these plans for compliance with building codes, laws, and regulations.

They also identify any potential issues or areas that could be improved and provide feedback.

In addition, they may also attend meetings with architects, engineers, and other stakeholders to discuss the plans and their findings.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the veil on what it truly means to be a plan reviewer.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about analyzing blueprints.

It’s about shaping the structures of tomorrow, one plan review at a time.

Armed with our handy plan reviewer job description template and real-world instances, you’re ready to step up.

But why draw the line there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next stepping stone to meticulously crafted job listings or refining your resume to absolute precision.

Bear in mind:

Every blueprint reviewed is a piece of the larger structure.

Let’s construct that future. Together.