PLAN CHECK ENGINEER

JOB DESCRIPTION

Salary Range $110,000-$134,000
Department Building & Safety
Job Type Full Time
Location Walnut, CA
Schedule 4/10 Work Schedule (In-Office)
Reports To: Raymond Tao, Director of Building & Safety
 

About RKA Consulting Group

RKA Consulting Group is a trusted leader in the building and safety industry, providing expert plan review and inspection services for municipalities and private development projects. At RKA Consulting Group, we cultivate a strong, team-oriented workplace where employees are valued, supported, and given opportunities for growth. We believe in balanced and competitive pay, professional development, and a family-oriented culture that prioritizes both career and personal well-being. We are committed to ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations while fostering safe and sustainable development.

We are seeking a Plan Check Engineer to review and evaluate construction plans for private development projects. This role ensures compliance with local, state, and federal codes while collaborating with inspectors, engineers, and developers. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, possesses strong analytical skills, and has a deep understanding of civil engineering principles.
 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Plan Review & Compliance

• Review architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire/life safety, energy conservation (Title 24), Green Building Standards, accessibility, and egress plans.
• Ensure submitted plans meet California Building Standards Codes, municipal regulations, and engineering best practices.
• Identify discrepancies, request revisions, and provide clear feedback to applicants.

Coordination & Permit Authorization

• Facilitate the plan review process by coordinating with public agencies and other departments.
• Communicate required modifications to developers, engineers, and architects.
• Approve building permits and calculate associated fees for code-compliant plans.

Code Interpretation & Public Assistance

• Serve as a technical resource for engineers, architects, contractors, and the public regarding building codes and regulations.
• Confers with architects, engineers, contractors, homeowners, and others relative to construction or building projects; coordinates plan examining activities with City departments and other agencies; confers and corresponds with other professional personnel in connection with building code interpretation and application; acts as an information source in person or by phone by answering related technical or code questions; discusses complicated issues with engineers and architects in terms of structural engineering items, building codes, etc.; responds to questions and concerns and resolves disputes.
• Provide expert guidance at public counters and in meetings to ensure clarity on permitting requirements.
• Attends meetings to review and discuss plans, documents and code requirements; performs field reviews as necessary.
• Offer alternative compliance solutions when needed.

Expertise & Professional Development

• Stay up to date with California Building Standards Codes, Title 24, ADA, and other relevant regulations.
• Represent the department in meetings with stakeholders and government agencies.

Mentorship & Training

• Support the professional growth of plan examiners by providing guidance, training, and technical assistance.
• Foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within the team.
• May assist with the training and supervision of office personnel and plan checking activities.

Additional Responsibilities

• Interpret and analyze construction diagrams, maps, blueprints, and engineering specifications.
• Prepare and deliver effective written reports and presentations.
• Conduct electronic plan reviews using Bluebeam software.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Education & Certification

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field (required).
• California Professional Engineer (PE) license (required).
• ICC Plans Examiner Certification (preferred).
• Valid California Driver's License (required).

Experience

• Minimum 3 years of experience in civil engineering, plan review, or a related field.
• Experience with municipal building and safety review projects (preferred).

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

• Strong understanding of California Building Codes (CBC), ADA, Title 24, and other relevant regulations.
• Knowledge of public works, including storm drains and utilities.
• Ability to review and interpret construction plans, specifications, and engineering calculations whether they are compliant with building code.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with engineers, inspectors, developers, and public agencies.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Bluebeam and other electronic plan review tools.

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is a proactive problem solver with a keen eye for detail and a passion for public safety and code compliance. They are highly organized, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and are confident in making technical decisions. They bring a solutions-oriented mindset and enjoy mentoring others in the field.
 

Why Join RKA Consulting Group?

We value our employees and provide a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Market-competitive salary
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)/Health Savings Account (HSA)
• 401(k) with employer match
• 529 College Savings Plan
• Discretionary Annual Profit-Sharing Plan
• Discretionary Annual Bonus
• 4/10 work schedule (In-Office)
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays

At RKA, we foster a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are an equal-opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected status. If you need reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact us.