Entry Level Public Administration Jobs in Riverside, CA

Bowman has an opportunity for a Building & Safety Permit Technician I to join our team in Orange County, Santa Ana CA.  

At Bowman, we believe in creating opportunities for aspiring people to thrive and achieve ambitious goals. That’s why a career at Bowman is more than a job. It is an opportunity to be part of a diverse and engaged community of professionals, to be treated as a respected and valued member of a motivated team and to be empowered to do exceptional work that advances the best interest of everyone involved. We recognize the importance of creating a work environment that is both rewarding to our employees and supportive of our unwavering commitment to provide unparalleled service to our clients.

Assist in the review, intake, and processing of planning and building permit applications. Liaise with the public and provide information regarding departmental policies and procedures pertaining to permits, plans submittal requirements, application procedures, plan check and permit fees, and plan check time frame and status.

Leadership and Direction

• Perform work under direct supervision of an experienced professional and follow established procedures and clearly defined processes. Receive direction on all aspects of assignments, specific tasks and how to execute. Work is thoroughly reviewed by more senior staff and Building Official to ensure application of sound techniques and principles.

At the Operational and Company Level

• Provide public information in support of the building, planning, housing, and code enforcement programs.
• Assist with the marketing of the firm’s capabilities to establish new clients and enhance relationships.

Do the Work

• Review and intake planning and building permit applications.
• Determine and collect fees for permits and other review and regulatory services.
• Route all application submittals to the appropriate departments/agencies for processing.
• Maintain files for all applications after checking for general completeness and accuracy.
• Provide written and verbal information to the public regarding departmental policies and procedures pertaining to topics such as permits, building code requirements, zoning, application procedures, and current projects.
• Respond to general inquiries regarding plan check submittal, time frame, and status.
• Process minor planning applications and review business licenses and building permits for compliance with zoning regulations.
• Enter invoices, prepare refunds, and reconcile web payments.
• Provide administrative support for public meetings, including preparation, distribution, and posting of agendas and minutes.
• Assist in setting up rooms and virtual webinars for department and/or public meetings.
• Operate a variety of office equipment and use a variety of software programs, including word processing, spreadsheet, permit tracking software, digital archiving software, and visual presentation equipment as appropriate.
• Maintain and manage an inventory of forms, applications, and office supplies.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, the public using principles of good customer service.
• Learn to read and interpret maps, construction drawings and blueprints.
• Learn and apply a variety of zoning, land use, planning, and building procedures, codes, and ordinances enforced by the City.
• Perform a variety of other tasks related to office administration and permit services as assigned.

• Ability to work both independently and within a team environment.
• Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization and external partners.
• Strong sense of urgency in responding to constituents.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong work ethic and commitment to quality.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple time-sensitive tasks.
• Basic understanding of financial reports and metrics.
• Data analysis and interpretation skills.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Entry level position, no prior experience required. Any office or customer service experience in direct contact with the general public preferred.
• ICC Permit Technician certification a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Ability to speak Spanish is highly desirable.

Are you ready to build a career that makes a lasting impact? At Bowman, our people are at the center of everything we do. We’re committed to creating an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally, while helping to shape the infrastructure of tomorrow.

A career at Bowman means being part of a collaborative, forward-thinking organization where innovation, inclusion, and growth are encouraged at every level. We offer competitive compensation, a supportive work environment, and benefits designed to help our employees succeed.

Salary and eligible variable compensation (if any) commensurate with experience. Range $25/hr - $30/hr and includes a comprehensive benefits package.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
• Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
• Discretionary bonuses and other performance-based incentives
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness initiatives, and employee discounts

Eligibility for certain benefits may vary based on position, location, and employment status.

• Primarily indoor professional office environment which may include bright/dim light, noise, fumes, odors, and traffic.
• Mobility around an office environment.
• Frequent and prolonged use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.
• Primarily local travel during the business day, although some out-of-the-area and overnight travel may be required according to the needs of the business.
• Occasional lifting or carrying up to 20 pounds.
• Occasional pushing or pulling up to 20 pounds.
• Occasional reaching outward or above shoulder.

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Note: While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, it is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties from particular jobs and to assign other duties as necessary at any time with or without notice.

Bowman is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. If you’d like more information on your EEO rights under the law, please click here.

Bowman has an obligation to provide and maintain a safe, healthy, and productive environment for its employees and clients. We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace.

If you have any questions about the application process, please email recruiting@bowman.com.

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Entry level position, no prior experience required. Any office or customer service experience in direct contact with the general public preferred.
• ICC Permit Technician certification a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Ability to speak Spanish is highly desirable.