Development Services Specialist

SUMMARY:

Under the general direction of the Director of Planning and Development and the supervision of the Building Official, the Development Services Specialist provides administrative and technical support for planning, zoning, development, and building permit activities. This position serves as a primary point of contact for residents, contractors, developers, and City staff by assisting with permit applications, development inquiries, and departmental processes. The role is responsible for processing permits and development applications, maintaining accurate records, coordinating review activities, and providing professional customer service while ensuring compliance with applicable City codes, ordinances, policies, and procedures. The Development Services Specialist supports the efficient operation of the Development Services and Building Departments through effective communication, organization, and attention to detail.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Serves as the primary point of contact for the Development Services and Building Departments by providing professional, courteous, and timely customer service to residents, contractors, developers, and City staff. Responds to routine inquiries related to planning, zoning, development, building permits, inspections, fees, codes, ordinances, policies, and procedures. Explains permit and development requirements, application procedures, standards, and code-related information clearly and professionally within the scope of authority and training.+ Reviews, accepts, and processes building permit, contractor, subcontractor, planning, zoning, platting, and development applications for completeness and accuracy. Receives and uploads initial submittals, revisions, and supporting documentation into iWorQ or other applicable permitting and tracking systems. Routes applications and plans to the appropriate departments and reviewers to facilitate timely review and approval processes. Maintains accurate permit records, plan review files, development case files, logs, and departmental databases in accordance with records management requirements. Prepares approval letters, stamps approved plans, closes completed or withdrawn permits and cases, and ensures all documentation is properly archived. Collects fees, issues receipts, processes payments, and balances daily deposits related to permits and development applications. Responds to requests regarding permit status, inspections, fees, review comments, and application progress in a timely and professional manner. Assists with scheduling, distribution, and coordination of Development Review Committee meetings and review materials Provides administrative and technical support to the Development Services and Building Departments, including research, reporting, and special projects. Assists staff and the public with understanding development procedures and technical requirements as authorized. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge Knowledge of municipal planning, zoning, development, and permitting principles and practices. Knowledge of municipal operations, administrative procedures, and records management practices. Working knowledge of building codes, ordinances, permit procedures, and development regulations, or the ability to quickly learn and apply them. Knowledge of permit tracking and records management software, including iWorQ or similar systems; familiarity with Incode preferred. Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint; familiarity with GIS and database systems preferred. Skills Strong organizational, multitasking, and time-management skills with the ability to prioritize assignments and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including professional correspondence and customer interactions. Strong customer service and interpersonal skills with the ability to maintain positive and cooperative working relationships. Mathematical and analytical skills sufficient to calculate fees, process payments, reconcile deposits, and review application information accurately. Proficiency in operating office equipment and navigating multiple computer systems simultaneously. Abilities Ability to read, understand, and interpret building plans, permit applications, technical documents, and development-related materials. Ability to communicate technical and procedural information clearly to contractors, developers, architects, engineers, and the general public. Ability to work efficiently under pressure while maintaining professionalism, accuracy, and attention to detail. Ability to exercise sound judgment and follow oral and written instructions within established guidelines Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism, discretion, and courtesy at all times. Ability to adapt to changing priorities and effectively manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Minimum Qualifications Experience:

Experience providing customer service and interacting with the public required. Experience with permitting procedures, records management, or data processing preferred.

Certifications/Licenses:

Valid Texas Driver s License required with a driving record acceptable under City policy. International Code Council (ICC) Permit Technician Certification preferred or ability to obtain certification within a specified timeframe. Conditions of Employment Must complete a City Employment Application. Must pass pre-employment background check. Must pass pre-employment drug test.