CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

Definition: Under general supervision of the Building and Planning Director, this position is responsible for enforcing the minimum maintenance standards and condition of all properties, buildings and structures in the city and compliance as it relates to the enforcement of a variety of applicable ordinances, codes and regulations related to health and safety including the property maintenance code, building code, and zoning code.  Understanding neighborhood blight has a profound impact on the community, creates safety hazards and decreases property values, this person performs important enforcement activities of city regulations on property owners, residents, businesses, the general public, and others.

Essential Functions: (Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills, and other characteristics.  This list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class.)

Tasks:

• Performs a variety of field and office work in support of the City’s local code enforcement program; including the International Property Maintenance Code, city building code, and city zoning code.
• Receive and respond to citizen complaints and reports from other agencies and departments on alleged violations of municipal codes and ordinances; conduct investigations and provide recommendations for resolution.
• Conduct field investigations; inspect properties for violations; attempt to make contact at the residence or business in order to resolve violation; issue and post warning notices, notices of violation, corrective notices, orders to comply, and related documentation for code violations; schedule and perform all follow-up functions to gain compliance including letters, inspections, calls, meetings, discussions, and negotiations to ensure compliance with appropriate codes and ordinances; issue administrative and notices of violation as necessary.
• Patrol assigned areas in a city vehicle to identify and evaluate problem areas and/or ordinance violations; determine proper method to resolve violations.
• Prepare evidence in support of legal actions taken by the City; appear in court as necessary; testify at hearings and in court proceedings as required.
• Responsible for file maintenance of official records of projects to ensure file represents status.
• Coordinates intra and inter departmental activities to ensure achievement of code compliance.
• Assists with zoning enforcement, including removal of illegal signs
• Maintain accurate documentation and case files on all investigations, inspections, enforcement actions, and other job-related activities including accurate and detailed information regarding code enforcement activity to substantiate violations; draw diagrams and illustrations and take photographs.
• Prepare a variety of written reports, memos, and correspondence related to enforcement activities.
• Interpret and explain municipal codes and ordinances to members of the general public, contractors, business owners, and other interested groups in the field, over the counter, and on the telephone.
• Operate computer/tablet to enter, process, and acquire data relative to complaints, inspection sites, and effective code enforcement; research complaints.
• Locate vacant residences and businesses; secure buildings with proper materials as necessary; post the property as necessary; check vacant buildings regularly for transient activity, graffiti, and other forms of vandalism.
• Assists the Code Official, or his designee with various inspections; additional certification may be required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Other Characteristics:

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of building permit issuance.
• Ability to read and research various codes
• Ability to work both in a team environment and individually
• Knowledge of the Wheeling City Codes applicable to buildings, property maintenance and compliance.
• Knowledge of building construction methods, practices, and safety regulations, including stages when possible, violations and defects may be most easily observed and corrected.
• Knowledge of the tools, equipment, and materials common to sidewalk repair and maintenance.
• Ability to pass Property Maintenance exam
• Knowledge of ICC International Property Maintenance Codes.

• Knowledge of computer software used for permit administration.