Zoning Code Compliance Officer I

May be hired as a Zoning Code Compliance Officer II

Community Development Department – Zoning Division

Full-Time, 12 Months

Non-Exempt, Pay Grade 13, VRS-Eligible, Benefits-Eligible

Under general supervision, the Zoning Code Compliance Officer I performs a variety of technical duties in support of the County's Zoning Ordinance; monitors and enforces a variety of applicable ordinances and codes related to zoning, land use, residential and commercial development, health and safety, and other matters of public concern; and serves as a resource to provide information on county regulations to property owners, residents, businesses, the general public and other County departments. Completes tasks within specific guidelines of work to be performed, and develops work methods and sequences under general supervision.

Enforcement work frequently requires the use of negotiation and conflict resolution skills. Incumbent regularly deals with uncooperative and sometimes irate citizens when enforcing these Codes and will be required to testify in court.

While some zoning specific experience is helpful, none is required—just the willingness and ability to learn. This is a great opportunity to begin a rewarding and interesting career. In this role, you have the chance to learn about the mechanisms of local government, develop leadership skills, and gain experience working with a variety of people in a range of settings. With duties that range from written communication and office work to traveling the county, this role requires flexibility, independent thinking and problem-solving. If you enjoy working with others, have an interest in a position with a lot of variety and growth opportunities, can commit to learning and enforcing regulations, and want to be part of an engaged and dynamic team, this role may be for you.

KEY ATTRIBUTES OF OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE

• Is influential, approachable, motivated and respectful
• Is innovative, takes initiative, and maintains an enthusiastic, self-reliant, and self-starting approach to meet job responsibilities and accountabilities
• Is a strong “connector” who fosters positive, productive relationships within the department and County government as well as throughout the broader community
• Demonstrates exceptional Emotional Intelligence with excellent communication skills
• Can handle changing priorities and tasks and manage projects through to completion while maintaining high standards of accuracy
• Can make consistent judgments or interpretations while remaining dedicated to preserving policies and procedures;
• Is trustworthy, honest, and ethical
• Can manage adversity and demonstrates fairness in all matters as well as a willingness to make tough decisions
• Is willing and able to learn new material and technology

THE DEPARTMENT – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

The mission of the Department of Community Development (CDD) is to create a vision for the future of Albemarle County through a proactive community planning effort that involves all stakeholders in a consensus-building process and ensures that all new development reflects the community's vision. Community Development strives to achieve a future community of quality development, protected natural resources, vital business activity, and livable, walkable neighborhoods.

Zoning is comprised of staff that work to ensure that activities relating to land use comply with the County's Zoning Ordinance and certain other County Code Chapters.

EXPECTATIONS

Essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Responds to citizen complaints of zoning violations
• Performs on-site inspections to identify violations of zoning ordinances
• Enacts enforcement duties to ensure adherence to County Zoning Codes
• Maintains accurate and detailed documentation on all investigations, inspections, enforcement actions and other job-related functions
• Attempts to resolve disputes over violations through counseling or negotiation with parties involved; initiates other actions as required including legal processes
• Inspects residential and commercial sites for adherence to local ordinance, code regulations, and prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy
• Manages residential and commercial development sites by collaborating with builders, developers, and homeowners to ensure adherence to the County Zoning Ordinance
• Inspects various sites for adherence to legislative, ministerial, and administrative approvals
• Regularly utilizes a variety of computer programs and websites to research and verify information as it pertains to the Zoning Ordinance and certain County Codes
• Performs routine office tasks, such as typing, filing, faxing, phoning, copying, and use of complex computer software programs
• Troubleshoots problems and identifies best practices
• Inspects signs in public spaces for compliance with ordinance regulations
• Coordinates with federal, state, and local agencies involving zoning, enforcement, or related matters; prepares reports or studies and may present information as required, possibly taking the lead
• Attends staff meetings to exchange information, collaborate ideas and solutions; attends classes for professional development
• Regularly drives and maintains a county vehicle
• Does related work as required

QUALIFICATIONS

Ability to:

• Research, compile, and collect data.
• Prepare clear and concise technical reports.
• Gain and apply general knowledge of zoning, state, and local codes/ordinances.
• Gain and apply knowledge of site plans, residential subdivision plats, deeds, architectural and engineering scales, and related measuring devices.
• Make oral presentations and testify in court.
• Work independently in the absence of supervision.
• Read and understand legal documents and descriptions.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Type and enter data accurately at a speed necessary for successful job performance.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Utilize modern office equipment, including computers and supporting word processing and spreadsheet applications.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or equivalent is required. Associates Degree preferred.
• Some work experience involving a high level of public contact, including experience dealing with the public in an enforcement, inspection, investigation, planning, or customer service capacity.
• Zoning Official certification required to be obtained within 3 years of employment.
• Possession of valid Driver's License issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

PHYSICAL CONDITIONS AND NATURE OF WORK CONTACTS

This position requires incumbent to work in office and field environments; to stand, stoop, reach, bend, kneel, climb ladders, and walk on uneven terrain, loose soil, and sloped surfaces; to operate office equipment and to operate a vehicle to travel to various locations. Walking 1-3 miles to reach inspection sites may be necessary. Occasional traverse of difficult terrain in adverse weather conditions is required. Occasional after hours’ inspection may be necessary for lighting or noise inspections and enforcement actions. Regular contact with the general public and developers that may require tact and diplomacy. Monthly contact with court personnel and frequent contact with other County officials is necessary.

HIRING SALARY RANGE: The hiring salary range for Code Compliance Officer I is $38,727 - $46,473 with excellent benefits including 12 paid holidays, paid vacation and sick leave, health insurance options with employer contribution, employer-paid life insurance, VRS retirement, and continuing education/training opportunities. This is a full time, FLSA non-exempt position. Internal candidates will receive pay adjustments in accordance with Local Government Personnel Policy, §P-60.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: Friday, January 27, 2017, 5:00 p.m. EST

Learn more about the County as a great place to live at: New Resident Guide

Learn more about Community Development at: Citizen’s Guide to Community Development

You may find more information at the Albemarle County Human Resources page http://www.albemarle.org/hr.

EEO/EOE