Permits Assistant Manager - Development Services & Permits - Harris County

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Development Services & Permits Division facilitates safe and responsible development, construction, and occupancy of buildings and properties in our community. In 2023, the division issued over 57,000 permits with a construction value of $11.15B. In addition, the division conducted over 41,000 inspections and almost 85,000 plan reviews. We strive to provide prompt and courteous service to our customers, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Our goal is to promote public safety, protect the environment, and support economic growth through the issuance of permits and inspections. We are committed to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in all aspects of our operations.

 

The Permits Assistant Manager supports the Permits Manager and is responsible for the planning, direction, management, and oversight of the activities and operations of the Permits division of the Engineering Department, including floodplain management and administration, plan review for developments, inspection, enforcement, ROW coordination, and permitting. The ideal candidate readily identifies obstacles to the division's performance and proactively identifies and implements solutions with minimal guidance. The Permits Assistant Manager oversees the identification and implementation of metrics to track division performance and makes recommendations on areas to sustain and improve. May directly engage with senior County, Precinct, and Department officials, which includes elected and appointed officials. Responsible for delivering and managing within the applicable scope and schedule on behalf of the department. Prepares and reports statuses of projects, costs, and schedules. Identifies and resolves issues that may impact other areas of work. Coordinates activities with other divisions and departments as required. This director reports to the Permits Manager.

 

The ideal candidate must have the capacity and interest to be an effective mentor and leader for staff. Strong collaboration and team building skills will be necessary for this individual to be successful; excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills are essential.

 

JOB DUTIES:

The responsibilities of the Permits Assistant Manager include, but are not limited to the following:

• Assumes management responsibilities for all department services and activities by evaluating, formulating, implementing, modifying when necessary, and improving the activities for development services, including policies and procedures.
• Supervise and assisting team supervisors.
• Review construction plans submitted to ensure compliance with Harris County Design Standards and all applicable local, state, and federal codes and guidelines.
• Convey detailed instructions relative to permitting.
• Communicate with the public by telephone and in person to inform them of specific aspects of the regulations.
• Interface with various sections of the Permit Office by verbal and written communication
• Perform multiple tasks, meeting deadlines, and occasionally work extended hours.
• During emergency response situations for our community, such as hurricanes or floods, the position may be tasked with additional duties. Not all duties and responsibilities may be included in the above description.