Permit Specialist
The City of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
Permit Specialist
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ewprint/5240941)
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Permit Specialist
Salary
$1,949.31 - $2,009.60 Biweekly
Location
Houston, TX 77002
Job Type
Full Time
Job Number
38163
Department
Houston Public Works
Opening Date
02/19/2026
Closing Date
4/30/2026 11:59 PM Central
Description
Benefits
Questions
POSITION OVERVIEW
Applications Accepted From: ALL PERSON INTERESTED
Service Line/Section: Houston Permitting Center/Building Code Enforcement/Permits
Reporting Location: 1002 Washington Ave.
Workdays & Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM*
*Subject to change
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The Houston Permitting Center (HPC) is looking for a Permit Specialist to join our team in an office-based role supporting our customers. This individual is an important team member that guides customers through their permitting challenges and solves problems each day. As a Permit Specialist, you serve as the face of the HPC and as a link between other City staff in plan review, engineering, inspections, and IT.
At the Houston Permitting Center, our work moves fast, and our goal is to deliver exceptional service to our customers in person, online, and over the phone. A day in the life of a Permit Specialist is highly variable based on customer needs and volume. Some days you will be on the frontline, serving customers in person, and other days you will be in the back office serving customers via email, phone, and live chat.
In this position, you will be responsible for:
Processing permit applications – Assist customers with applying for a variety of permits, such as building, piers, demolition, and trades. Ensures all permit applications and related documents are complete, accurate and in compliance with applicable codes, ordinances and regulations.
Set up permit fees – Set up the permit fees within the permitting system and issue sales order for payment in person or online.
License and bond registration – process first-time license registrations and renewals for fire alarm, fire sprinkler, and earth hauling contractors, and verifying sidewalk and driveway bonds
Addressing and name changes – assign and verify addresses of buildings and other structures to ensure coordination between utilities and emergency services. Update projects for changes to the address, contractor, applicant, or occupant.
Certificate of Occupancy and Compliance – process requests for Certificates of Occupancy or Compliance for new construction projects
Customer support and education – respond to inquiries for general information on permitting processes and procedures through the email, live chat, and over the phone. Assist with the release of holds and other project issues. Collaborate with Communications to create or deliver training and other materials to educate customers on the permitting process.
Technical support – Liaise between IT staff and customers to resolve technical issues with the permitting systems and/or facilitate remedies.
Serving in a lead capacity – may serve as a shift leader for other Permits Techs and Aides to monitor daily workflow, assist with scheduling, and provide guidance to less experience team members. Help create and maintain training materials and knowledge articles.
Performs other duties as assigned
Your effectiveness in this position will depend on your ability to:
Communicate clearly and professionally – Our customer base is diverse, not just in languages spoken, but also in construction and permitting experience. A Permit Specialist must communicate with respect, courtesy, and clarity in a variety of service channels, and know how to adapt their communication style to meet customer needs.
Think critically and problem solve – Resolving permitting issues on behalf of customers can be complex and requires a Permit Specialist to build strong working relationships internally and across city departments. They just be able to take ownership and use good judgement to resolve problems.
Understand general construction principles and practices - Understands the functions of all sections requiring permits, such as Water, Planning, Flood, Storm HAS, Traffic, Fire, Sprinklers, Haz-Mat, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Health-Food and Health-Pool.
Adapt to change – The Houston Permitting Center is undergoing rapid change, moving away from legacy permitting system to a modern, workflow-driven permitting system. The selected candidate must be willing to embrace new technology and processes
We’re committed to your success, but we expect our team members to be equally invested. We’re looking for someone who’s not afraid of a challenge and eager to grow with us.
Who are we
When you join the Houston Permitting Center, you’ll be part of a dedicated team that provide services for safe community development through the permitting, plan review, and inspection of public and private construction. Our team members issue over 400,000 permits, review 77,000 projects, and conduct 800,000 inspections every year. The Houston Permitting Center is committed to our department’s Five to Thrive values as principles that guide
our work with customers and team members – Respect, Ownership, Communication, Integrity, and Teamwork. We intend to “roc” it every day!
WORKING CONDITIONS
The position is physically comfortable most of the time with occasional periods of stooping, bending and/or light lifting of materials up to 10 pounds. Requires the ability to make coordinated gross motor movements in response to changing external stimuli within moderately demanding tolerances.
There are no major sources of discomfort, i.e., essentially normal office environment with acceptable lighting, temperature and air conditions. The individual has discretion about walking, standing, etc.
This is a Department of Houston Public Works Emergency Management position at the Tier III Level.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Requires a high school diploma or a GED.
Preferences: Proficiency in the following systems: iPermits, PDox and ILMS. Knowledge of how to research using GIMS, HCAD and HAS.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Three (3) years of experience as a Permit Technician/Permit Technician Aide, with at least one (1) year as a Permit Technician, are required.
Substitution: An Associate’s degree in a related field may substitute for two years of the experience requirement.
A Bachelor’s degree in a related field may substitute for the education and experience requirements.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
None
PREFERENCES
The ideal candidate should have some of the following skills or experience:
Bilingual in English and Spanish
International Code Council (ICC) Permit Technician certification or willing to obtain certification within six months of employment
Strong communication skills, including written and verbal skills
Proficient in using technology
Experience using ILMS/iPermits, ProjectDox, Infor, or similar electronic permitting and plan review systems
Experience using live chat or customer experience (CX) software, such as Oracle Service Cloud or Microsoft Dynamics
You don’t have to check every preference box to be a great candidate. So long as you bring your passion for people and problem solving, we’ll invest in you to take care of the rest. If you think you’ve got what it takes, we encourage you to apply.
Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.
GENERAL INFORMATION
SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED
The selection process will involve application review and/or interview. The department may administer skills assessment test.
SAFETY IMPACT POSITION
No - If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.
Pay Grade: 16
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during the active posting period. Applications must be submitted online at:www.houstontx.gov.
To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting:http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfmor call (832-395-6032). If you need login assistance/technical support call 855-524-5627. If you need special services or accommodation, call (832-393-6737), (TTY 7-1-1).
Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.
All new recruits and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.
Applicants are encouraged to attach a cover letter and resume along with their completed application when applying. For further information pertaining to the Houston Airport System, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDWLV_sJFoM.
EOE Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
The city offers a competitive benefits program, including competitively priced health coverage and a defined contribution pension plan. Benefits include:
Medical
Dental
Vision
Wellness
Supplemental Insurance
Life insurance
Long-term disability
Retirement pension
457 deferred compensation plan
Employee Assistance Program
10 days of vacation each year
13 city holidays, plus one floating holiday
Compensable Sick Leave
Personal Leave
Flexible schedules
Hybrid-Telework for eligible positions
Professional development opportunities
Transportation/parking plan
Section 125 pretax deductions
Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
Paid Prenatal, Parental and Infant Wellness Leaves
Healthcare Flexible Spending Account
For plan details, visit http://www.houstontx.gov/hr/benefits.html
01
How many years of VERIFIABLE experience do you have as a Permit Technician Aide/Permit Technician?
No experience
Less than 1 year
1 year but less than 2 years
2 years but less than 3 years
3 years but less than 4 years
4 years but less than 5 years
5 or more years
02
How many years of VERIFIABLE experience do you have as a Permit Technician?
No Experience
Less than 1 year
1 year but less than 2 years
2 years but less than 3 years
3 years but less than 4 years
4 years but less than 5 years
5 or more years
03
Are you a current Houston Permitting Center employee?
Yes
No
04
Please select your highest level of education.
Less than high school diploma or GED
High School Diploma or GED
Associate's Degree
Bachelor's Degree or higher
05
Are you an International Code Council (ICC) certified Permit Technician?
No - I have never been certified
No - my certification has lapsed or expired
Yes - my certification is active and valid
06
Describe your experience processing building permits, reviewing plans, or inspections. Writing “see resume” is not a sufficient response. If no direct experience, please write “n/a”.
07
Describe your experience handling a large volume of customers through multiple service channels (in person, phone, email, and live chat). Writing “see resume” is not a sufficient response. If no direct experience, please write “n/a”
08
How many years of experience do you have working with the Integrated Land Management System (ILMS) or Infor Public Sector software applications?
No Experience
Less than 1 year
1 year but less than 2 years
2 years but less than 3 years
3 years but less than 4 years
4 or more years
09
How many years of experience do you have using the ProjectDox software application?
No experience
Less than 1 year
1 year but less than 2 years
2 years but less than 3 years
3 years but less than 4 years
4 or more years
10
Please rate your skill level using Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, SharePoint).
No experience
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
11
Which languages do you speak, read and/or write fluently, other than English? (Check all that apply)
Spanish
Vietnamese
Mandarin or other Chinese dialect
Arabic
French
Other language not listed
I do not speak another language
12
Are you a veteran who served on active duty in the Armed Forces (United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard) for more than 90 consecutive days and received either an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions?
Yes
No
Required Question
Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/houston/jobs
ewprint/5240941)
Apply
Permit Specialist
Salary
$1,949.31 - $2,009.60 Biweekly
Location
Houston, TX 77002
Job Type
Full Time
Job Number
38163
Department
Houston Public Works
Opening Date
02/19/2026
Closing Date
4/30/2026 11:59 PM Central
Description
Benefits
Questions
POSITION OVERVIEW
Applications Accepted From: ALL PERSON INTERESTED
Service Line/Section: Houston Permitting Center/Building Code Enforcement/Permits
Reporting Location: 1002 Washington Ave.
Workdays & Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM*
*Subject to change
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The Houston Permitting Center (HPC) is looking for a Permit Specialist to join our team in an office-based role supporting our customers. This individual is an important team member that guides customers through their permitting challenges and solves problems each day. As a Permit Specialist, you serve as the face of the HPC and as a link between other City staff in plan review, engineering, inspections, and IT.
At the Houston Permitting Center, our work moves fast, and our goal is to deliver exceptional service to our customers in person, online, and over the phone. A day in the life of a Permit Specialist is highly variable based on customer needs and volume. Some days you will be on the frontline, serving customers in person, and other days you will be in the back office serving customers via email, phone, and live chat.
In this position, you will be responsible for:
Processing permit applications – Assist customers with applying for a variety of permits, such as building, piers, demolition, and trades. Ensures all permit applications and related documents are complete, accurate and in compliance with applicable codes, ordinances and regulations.
Set up permit fees – Set up the permit fees within the permitting system and issue sales order for payment in person or online.
License and bond registration – process first-time license registrations and renewals for fire alarm, fire sprinkler, and earth hauling contractors, and verifying sidewalk and driveway bonds
Addressing and name changes – assign and verify addresses of buildings and other structures to ensure coordination between utilities and emergency services. Update projects for changes to the address, contractor, applicant, or occupant.
Certificate of Occupancy and Compliance – process requests for Certificates of Occupancy or Compliance for new construction projects
Customer support and education – respond to inquiries for general information on permitting processes and procedures through the email, live chat, and over the phone. Assist with the release of holds and other project issues. Collaborate with Communications to create or deliver training and other materials to educate customers on the permitting process.
Technical support – Liaise between IT staff and customers to resolve technical issues with the permitting systems and/or facilitate remedies.
Serving in a lead capacity – may serve as a shift leader for other Permits Techs and Aides to monitor daily workflow, assist with scheduling, and provide guidance to less experience team members. Help create and maintain training materials and knowledge articles.
Performs other duties as assigned
Your effectiveness in this position will depend on your ability to:
Communicate clearly and professionally – Our customer base is diverse, not just in languages spoken, but also in construction and permitting experience. A Permit Specialist must communicate with respect, courtesy, and clarity in a variety of service channels, and know how to adapt their communication style to meet customer needs.
Think critically and problem solve – Resolving permitting issues on behalf of customers can be complex and requires a Permit Specialist to build strong working relationships internally and across city departments. They just be able to take ownership and use good judgement to resolve problems.
Understand general construction principles and practices - Understands the functions of all sections requiring permits, such as Water, Planning, Flood, Storm HAS, Traffic, Fire, Sprinklers, Haz-Mat, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Health-Food and Health-Pool.
Adapt to change – The Houston Permitting Center is undergoing rapid change, moving away from legacy permitting system to a modern, workflow-driven permitting system. The selected candidate must be willing to embrace new technology and processes
We’re committed to your success, but we expect our team members to be equally invested. We’re looking for someone who’s not afraid of a challenge and eager to grow with us.
Who are we
When you join the Houston Permitting Center, you’ll be part of a dedicated team that provide services for safe community development through the permitting, plan review, and inspection of public and private construction. Our team members issue over 400,000 permits, review 77,000 projects, and conduct 800,000 inspections every year. The Houston Permitting Center is committed to our department’s Five to Thrive values as principles that guide
our work with customers and team members – Respect, Ownership, Communication, Integrity, and Teamwork. We intend to “roc” it every day!
WORKING CONDITIONS
The position is physically comfortable most of the time with occasional periods of stooping, bending and/or light lifting of materials up to 10 pounds. Requires the ability to make coordinated gross motor movements in response to changing external stimuli within moderately demanding tolerances.
There are no major sources of discomfort, i.e., essentially normal office environment with acceptable lighting, temperature and air conditions. The individual has discretion about walking, standing, etc.
This is a Department of Houston Public Works Emergency Management position at the Tier III Level.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Requires a high school diploma or a GED.
Preferences: Proficiency in the following systems: iPermits, PDox and ILMS. Knowledge of how to research using GIMS, HCAD and HAS.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Three (3) years of experience as a Permit Technician/Permit Technician Aide, with at least one (1) year as a Permit Technician, are required.
Substitution: An Associate’s degree in a related field may substitute for two years of the experience requirement.
A Bachelor’s degree in a related field may substitute for the education and experience requirements.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
None
PREFERENCES
The ideal candidate should have some of the following skills or experience:
Bilingual in English and Spanish
International Code Council (ICC) Permit Technician certification or willing to obtain certification within six months of employment
Strong communication skills, including written and verbal skills
Proficient in using technology
Experience using ILMS/iPermits, ProjectDox, Infor, or similar electronic permitting and plan review systems
Experience using live chat or customer experience (CX) software, such as Oracle Service Cloud or Microsoft Dynamics
You don’t have to check every preference box to be a great candidate. So long as you bring your passion for people and problem solving, we’ll invest in you to take care of the rest. If you think you’ve got what it takes, we encourage you to apply.
Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.
GENERAL INFORMATION
SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED
The selection process will involve application review and/or interview. The department may administer skills assessment test.
SAFETY IMPACT POSITION
No - If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.
Pay Grade: 16
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during the active posting period. Applications must be submitted online at:www.houstontx.gov.
To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting:http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfmor call (832-395-6032). If you need login assistance/technical support call 855-524-5627. If you need special services or accommodation, call (832-393-6737), (TTY 7-1-1).
Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.
All new recruits and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.
Applicants are encouraged to attach a cover letter and resume along with their completed application when applying. For further information pertaining to the Houston Airport System, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDWLV_sJFoM.
EOE Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
The city offers a competitive benefits program, including competitively priced health coverage and a defined contribution pension plan. Benefits include:
Medical
Dental
Vision
Wellness
Supplemental Insurance
Life insurance
Long-term disability
Retirement pension
457 deferred compensation plan
Employee Assistance Program
10 days of vacation each year
13 city holidays, plus one floating holiday
Compensable Sick Leave
Personal Leave
Flexible schedules
Hybrid-Telework for eligible positions
Professional development opportunities
Transportation/parking plan
Section 125 pretax deductions
Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
Paid Prenatal, Parental and Infant Wellness Leaves
Healthcare Flexible Spending Account
For plan details, visit http://www.houstontx.gov/hr/benefits.html
01
How many years of VERIFIABLE experience do you have as a Permit Technician Aide/Permit Technician?
No experience
Less than 1 year
1 year but less than 2 years
2 years but less than 3 years
3 years but less than 4 years
4 years but less than 5 years
5 or more years
02
How many years of VERIFIABLE experience do you have as a Permit Technician?
No Experience
Less than 1 year
1 year but less than 2 years
2 years but less than 3 years
3 years but less than 4 years
4 years but less than 5 years
5 or more years
03
Are you a current Houston Permitting Center employee?
Yes
No
04
Please select your highest level of education.
Less than high school diploma or GED
High School Diploma or GED
Associate's Degree
Bachelor's Degree or higher
05
Are you an International Code Council (ICC) certified Permit Technician?
No - I have never been certified
No - my certification has lapsed or expired
Yes - my certification is active and valid
06
Describe your experience processing building permits, reviewing plans, or inspections. Writing “see resume” is not a sufficient response. If no direct experience, please write “n/a”.
07
Describe your experience handling a large volume of customers through multiple service channels (in person, phone, email, and live chat). Writing “see resume” is not a sufficient response. If no direct experience, please write “n/a”
08
How many years of experience do you have working with the Integrated Land Management System (ILMS) or Infor Public Sector software applications?
No Experience
Less than 1 year
1 year but less than 2 years
2 years but less than 3 years
3 years but less than 4 years
4 or more years
09
How many years of experience do you have using the ProjectDox software application?
No experience
Less than 1 year
1 year but less than 2 years
2 years but less than 3 years
3 years but less than 4 years
4 or more years
10
Please rate your skill level using Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, SharePoint).
No experience
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
11
Which languages do you speak, read and/or write fluently, other than English? (Check all that apply)
Spanish
Vietnamese
Mandarin or other Chinese dialect
Arabic
French
Other language not listed
I do not speak another language
12
Are you a veteran who served on active duty in the Armed Forces (United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard) for more than 90 consecutive days and received either an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions?
Yes
No
Required Question