Zoning and Code Enforcement Intern

To conduct field inspections for the purpose of detecting and correcting general property ordinance and zoning violations as well as to monitor and document violation information.

1. Perform daily drive-by and field inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial properties to determine compliance with zoning and land development requirements; property maintenance; and to assure compliance with applicable codes, ordinances, regulations and statutes.
2. Research and gather background information regarding enforcement and other related activities involving properties.
3. Prepare for inspections, schedule appointments where appropriate, and coordinate inspections with department staff. 
4. Document, record, and photograph properties during inspections to capture accurate information and evidence. 
5. Accurately enter data and maintain information in the City's computerized database systems.
6. Tabulate results, analyze results, prints reports and negotiate reasonable extensions on non-complying issues and/or follow up.
7. Prepare and send out notices of violations using form letters and/or general correspondence in conjunction with the City's computerized database and established department procedures and timetables.
8. Issue notices of violations and work with City’s legal counsel to issue citations in accordance with City Code and established departmental procedures.
9. Perform general customer service functions and serves as a resource to provide information on City regulations to property owners, residents, business, the general public and other City departments and divisions.
10. Respond to requests and inquiries from the public (walk-in customers, through e-mail or over the phone).
11. Investigate and respond to complaints as needed and report information and concerns back to Community Development staff or supervisors.
12. Assist department staff in coordinating abatements for unresolved cases.
13. Assist in the preparation of documentation necessary to litigate unresolved cases.
14. Researches, writes, and prepares information for reports and a variety of promotional materials such as the City newsletter, website, brochures, etc.
15. Prepare and make public presentations as needed, which may include City Council presentations, community events, cable television shows, and on-camera interviews.
16. Attends and contributes to regular staff meetings.
17. Safely operates assigned city vehicles and computer equipment.
18. Work effectively with the general public, staff members and outside agencies.
19. Assist Planning Manager and Planners with special projects, which may include land use research and reports, as well as grant applications and management.
20. Testify in court on violation cases if needed.
21. Provide department counter and phone backup during breaks and lunches and other duties as assigned.
22. Assist in organizing and scanning department records.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
 

1. Completed at least two years of secondary education or certificate education in urban planning, public administration, community development, housing inspections, criminal justice or a related field, in good academic standing.
2. Must possess a valid Minnesota driver’s license and a good driving history.
3. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
4. Proficient at operating personal computer and Microsoft Office Suite, including Access, Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
5. Final candidate must satisfactorily complete a thorough criminal background and reference check process.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
 

1. Senior in urban studies, community development, public administration, housing inspections, law enforcement, or related field.
2. Experience working with mobile devices such as an iPad, smart phone, or online mapping system.
3. Experience in customer service, particularly dealing with difficult customers

1. Knowledge of the procedures and objectives of City Code, zoning, local ordinances, laws, rules and regulations related to zoning enforcement, sign regulations and other development related to land use concerns.
2. Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing.
3. Ability to read and interpret data, information, documents; analyze and solve problems; use math and mathematical reasoning.
4. Ability to read and interpret aerial photographs and maps.
5. Ability to read and understand land development code and related regulations.
6. Ability to input, retrieve, and access information on a computer as well as assigned mobile devices.
7. Ability to be organized, prioritizes work assignments, and complies with multiple deadlines.
8. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and deal tactfully with internal and external customers, co-workers, and partnering agencies, etc.

Salary : $18 - $22