Permit Technician

Application Deadline: Monday, May 18, 2026 at 10:00 AMTentative Interviews: Tuesday, June 16, 2026

The City of Paso Robles is excited to recruit a dynamic, customer\-focused professional to join our team as a Permit Technician. This recruitment will play a key role in supporting our Engineering Division, while also offering the opportunity to build broad expertise through cross\-training in Building and Planning services.

This role is central to the City’s development process and front\-line customer experience. As a Permit Technician, you will serve as a vital connection between the public, developers, and City staff, helping guide projects from application to completion. You will work in a fast\-paced, collaborative environment where attention to detail, problem\-solving, and strong communication skills are essential.

If you enjoy working with people, navigating technical processes, and being part of a team that supports meaningful projects in the community, this is an excellent opportunity to grow your career in public service.

About Paso Robles

Nestled in the heart of California’s scenic Central Coast, Paso Robles—short for El Paso de Robles, or “The Pass of the Oaks”—offers a unique blend of small\-town charm, natural beauty, and modern opportunity. Originally founded around its famous mineral hot springs and rich agricultural heritage, Paso Robles has grown into a dynamic and thriving community. The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny days and cool evenings, ideal for both outdoor living and agricultural innovation. With its rolling hills, majestic oak trees, and panoramic vineyard views, Paso Robles provides a truly inspiring setting for work and life.

Paso Robles’ central location within San Luis Obispo County offers residents easy access to a wide array of cultural, educational, and recreational attractions. Just a short 30\-minute drive south lies California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly), a nationally ranked institution known for its hands\-on learning and innovation. This proximity fosters strong connections to cutting\-edge research, continuing education, and a highly educated talent pool. To the west, scenic Highway 1 leads to the iconic Hearst Castle in San Simeon, a historic landmark that draws visitors from around the world with its stunning architecture and sweeping coastal views. Within the county, residents can also enjoy the vibrant coastal towns of Morro Bay, Cambria, and Pismo Beach, as well as the eclectic energy of downtown San Luis Obispo. From wine tasting and hiking to art galleries, surf spots, and farmers’ markets, San Luis Obispo County offers an exceptional quality of life.

Today, Paso Robles is best known as a premier wine region, home to over 200 wineries producing world\-class Zinfandels, Cabernet Sauvignons, and Rhône varietals. But wine is just the beginning. The city boasts a vibrant downtown filled with boutique shopping, award\-winning restaurants, and a bourgeoning local arts scene. Cultural highlights include the Paso Robles Wine Festival, California Mid\-State Fair, and a variety of community events that bring residents together year\-round. A wide array of housing options, good schools, a welcoming business environment, and proximity to outdoor destinations make it an ideal place to live and work. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to make a lifestyle change, the City of Paso Robles offers the perfect balance of opportunity, community, and California charm. The Organization

The City of Paso Robles was incorporated in 1889 as a general law city and operates under the Council\-Manager form of government. As of January 1, 2025, the City's population has grown to approximately 31,061, reflecting consistent growth over recent years as more residents are drawn to the City's high quality of life, strong community identity, and comprehensive municipal services.

The City is a full\-service municipality, meaning it provides a wide range of essential public services directly to its residents. These include police and fire protection, emergency medical response, water and wastewater utilities, parks and recreation, planning and development services, public works, and community enrichment programs. The City is committed to delivering responsive, effective, and efficient services that enhance the well\-being of its residents and support a safe, sustainable, and vibrant community.

The governing body consists of a five\-member City Council: the Mayor, elected at large by the voters of the City; and four Councilmembers elected by district. Voters also elect one City Treasurer at\-large. All six elected positions are non\-partisan. The City Manager, appointed by the City Council, serves as the Chief Executive Officer and is authorized to appoint all non\-elected employees, with the exception of the City Attorney.

The City operates with a total annual budget of $145\.7 million for fiscal year 2025\-26 and employs 314\.44 full\-time equivalent positions across the departments of Administrative Services, City Manager’s Office, Community Development, Community Services, Fire and Emergency Services, Police, Public Works, and Utilities.

The Department

The Community Development Department includes the Planning, Engineering, and Building Divisions and is involved in all phases of development, from initial project review through construction and final improvements. Staff work collaboratively to guide projects through the City’s review and permitting process, helping shape development within the community while ensuring compliance with applicable codes, standards, and policies. Through this coordinated effort, the department plays a key role in supporting safe, functional, and well\-planned growth throughout the City.

Typical Duties

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The following duties are typical of this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the duties set forth below and/or may be required to perform additional related duties to address City needs and changing business practices.

• Advises contractors, developers, engineers, architects, and the public on permit process requirements; assists customers with completing applications for permits; explains reasons for routine denial of applications, identifies additional requirements, and explains the process for reapplying.
• Reviews submitted plans and permit applications for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with requirements; verifies appropriate signatures, required calculations, reports, and proper types of plans are included; monitors performance of stated processing time goals; appropriately routes other types of submitted plans to various departments and staff for plan review; issues permits after approval is secured.
• Provides exemplary customer service to all individuals by demonstrating a willingness to be attentive, understanding, responsive, fair, courteous, respectful, and to actively participate in maintaining a positive customer service environment.
• Interprets and applies relevant codes, regulations, policies, and procedures as they relate to the processing of permit applications.
• Applies valuations and permit costs for new projects based on codes, regulations, and policies; accurately collects and processes various fees and issues receipts.
• Assists in the maintenance of data in the permit tracking system, website, and other information systems; analyzes, develops, recommends, tests, and implements approved permit system changes to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of processes.
• Assists in coordinating the permitting process with department managers, inspectors, planners, engineers, fire inspectors, and other City staff.
• Collects and compiles data and prepares reports, including related statistical information, fees collected, and credits used.
• Conducts a preliminary basic plan review to ensure compliance with building and zoning code regulations.
• Researches, collects, compiles, records, and summarizes technical data; assists with documentation for projects and presentations; maintains statistical, photographic, and historical records.
• Serves as a liaison between permit applicants and the referral division, department, and outside agency; assists in resolving problems related to the permit review and issuance process.
• Performs general administrative and technical duties in support of the department; prepares a variety of written correspondence, reports, and other written materials; distributes to departmental staff and various governmental offices.
• Provides training, guidance, interpretation of policies and procedures, and backup to support staff as needed.
• Provides and interprets information from maps, easements, and recorded information.
• Oversees and participates in a variety of customer service activities such as responding to questions regarding permits, fee schedules, and code and ordinance questions.
• Acts as a resource to counter staff regarding customer service issues and difficult or complex inquiries.
• Troubleshoots problems, complaints, and inquiries regarding a variety of permitting and application processes.
• Tracks records, verifies timeliness, performs follow\-up to resolve problems, and refers complex issues to appropriate staff as necessary.
• Processes invoices, billing and account reconciliation, final project close outs, and refunds.
• Observes, identifies, and resolves problems related to counter operations and procedures; interprets and explains operations and department policies and procedures.

Specific duties related to the Engineering Division:

• Processes map recordation and subdivision bonding.
• Tracks and coordinates a variety of elements required under development agreements such as mitigation measures and underground infrastructure.
• Coordinates inspections for a variety of City and private development projects.

Specific duties related to the Planning Division:

• Prepares agendas and basic reports for review boards and meetings; administers meeting agendas; provides required information to applicants, board members, and the general public; assists in the preparation and review of meeting minutes and resolutions; and coordinates the call\-in studio.
• Assists with generating and processing a variety of documents such as address letters, deed restrictions, and reporting.

Specific duties related to the Building Division:

• Assists with permit tracking and reporting requiring a high level of communication with outside agencies.
• Coordinates with consultants regarding updates to agreements and project prioritization.
• Evaluates projects and City requirements to estimate fees with the goal of managing customer expectations and providing transparent communication.

Employment Standards \& Special Requirements

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Knowledge of:

• Basic principles of planning, zoning, engineering, code enforcement, and building functions with regard to regulation of land use development.
• Procedures related to the processing of permit applications.
• Basic plan check processes and procedures.
• English usage, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation.
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, zoning laws, and procedures relevant to building, land use, and urban planning sufficient to answer questions and provide information to the public.
• Techniques for effectively representing the City in contacts with contractors, governmental agencies, community groups, and various business, educational, community, and regulatory organizations.
• Standard and accepted building and construction terminology and processes.
• Procedures and methods for providing services and information to the public including those related to collecting, maintaining, and releasing information, files, and documents.
• Business letter writing and the standard format for reports and correspondence.
• Computer applications related to the work, including word processing and spreadsheet applications.
• Records management principles and practices.
• Standard business arithmetic and basic statistical techniques.
• Methods used in the collection, tabulation, review, analysis, and distribution of applications, maps, and other community development forms and documents.
• The function of boards, commissions, and committees as related to the preparation of agenda materials and minutes related to departmental functions.

Ability to:

• Accurately read, understand, apply, and interpret a variety of policies, procedures, fees, and basic planning, building, and engineering codes and regulations to the general public, permit applicants, and City staff.
• Use initiative to oversee and track the progress of applications to ensure progression to completion within prescribed time frames.
• Work proactively to address customer service issues and problems.
• Accurately maintain a variety of records, logs, and files related to the development process.
• Read, review, and analyze plans, maps, specifications, applications, and supporting documentation to ensure completeness and accuracy.
• Communicate tactfully and effectively in a variety of methods to explain procedures to or request technical information from sometimes irate or upset individuals.
• Efficiently coordinate with engineers, consultants, property owners, internal staff, other agencies, and the public to exchange information and facilitate work processes.
• Balance direction from multiple managers and communicate task prioritization.
• Independently organize and prioritize a variety of projects and tasks in an effective and timely manner and meet critical deadlines.
• Effectively represent the department and the City in meetings with governmental agencies, community groups, various businesses and professional organizations, and with the public.
• Understand and carry out oral and written instructions in an independent manner.
• Calculate square footage, fees, and penalties from plans and permit applications.
• Perform detailed clerical, administrative, and technical engineering, planning, and building permit support work.
• Make accurate arithmetic, financial, and statistical computations.
• Operate modern office equipment including computer and related word processing, database, and spreadsheet software and applications.
• Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with internal and external customers.

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities, is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

• Equivalent to graduation from high school; and
• Three years of clerical or technical experience involving extensive public contact in community development, building permitting, planning, building inspection, construction engineering, or a similar field.

Licenses and Certifications:

An International Code Council (ICC) Permit Technician certification and Notary Public are desirable.

The full job description, including physical demands and working conditions, is available on the Job Descriptions page of the City’s website.

Selection Procedure \& Application Process

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To be considered for this exceptional career opportunity, please submit an employment application, resume, and cover letter describing your interest and how your skills and experience relate to the position of Permit Technician by no later than Monday, May 18, 2026, at 10:00am. This is a confidential recruitment and will be handled accordingly throughout the various stages of the process. Candidates should be aware that references will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established.

Applications received by the filing date will be reviewed for accuracy, completeness, and job\-related qualifications. A limited number of persons whose applications clearly demonstrate they most closely meet the requirements may be invited to participate in the selection process, which may be any combination of written, oral, and/or performance exams. All statements made in the application materials are subject to verification. False statements will be cause for disqualification or discharge.

Appointment is subject to successfully passing a background and criminal history check. Before starting work, applicants must present documentation of their identity and authorization to work in the United States. The City of Paso Robles participates in E\-Verify (more information can be found at www.PRCity.com/HR). Following appointment, a 12\-month probationary period may be required as the final phase of the appointment process.

The email address you provide on the City application will be the primary means of communication the City will use to contact you regarding your application and this recruitment. If you have questions regarding the application process, please contact Human Resources at (805\) 237\-3962, or by email at Jobs@PRCity.com.

All persons employed by the City of Paso Robles are designated as "disaster service workers" as defined in the California Government Code section 3100 and 3101\.

The City of Paso Robles provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute a contract.

Leave Benefits:* Vacation: Accrual of 80\-200 hours per year based on years of City service.

* Sick Leave: Accrual of 96 hours per year.

* Holidays: 14 paid days per year.

Health and Wellness:

* Medical: The City contributes up to $956\.28 per month for employee\-only coverage, $1,721\.30 for employee plus one, and $2,113\.38 for family coverage. Under the lowest\-cost PPO plan, current employee monthly premiums are $0 (employee only), $191\.26 (employee \+ one), and $372\.95 (family). Employees who waive coverage may be eligible for a $300 monthly cash\-in\-lieu payment.

* Dental: The City pays 100% of employee coverage and partial family coverage

* Vision: The City pays 100% of employee and family coverage

* Life Insurance: $75,000 employee\-only coverage paid by the City

* Employee Assistance Program (EAP):The City pays 100% of employee and family coverage

* Flexible Spending Account: Allows you to pay for dependent care and un\-reimbursed medical expenses on a pre\-tax basis

Retirement:* CalPERS:

+ Tier 1: 2\.5% at 55; employee contribution of 10% (8% member contribution plus 2% cost sharing)

+ Tier 2: 2% at 60; employee contribution of 10% (7% member contribution plus 3% cost sharing)

+ PEPRA: 2% at 62; current employee contribution of 10\.75% (one\-half of the normal cost, currently 7\.75%, plus 3% cost sharing)

* 457 Deferred Compensation: The City will match up to $50 per pay period and contribute it to a pre\-tax account. Employees may choose to contribute pre\-tax dollars, post\-tax (Roth) dollars, or a combination of both toward their retirement.

* Social Security: Both the City and employee contribute

Additional Benefits* Bilingual Pay: Spanish verbal services: $46\.15 per pay period; Spanish written services: $11\.54 per pay period

* Commercial License Incentive: Employees in eligible positions who hold a valid Class A or Class B California commercial driver license, maintain a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate, and are cleared by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Clearinghouse to drive commercial vehicles shall receive $100 per pay period, subject to department director approval.

* Education Reimbursement: Up to $3,000 per fiscal year for job\-related coursework

* Retiree Health Reimbursement: Up to $500 per month until the age of 65 for employees who retire from the City with at least 20 years of service

For additional details and information, please see the SEIU Wage and Benefit Summary located on our website here.