Planning Inspector

Purpose of Position:

The purpose of this job is to conduct inspections throughout the county for zoning violations. Ensuring compliance with land use regulations, zoning ordinances, and planning policies within Dorchester County. This position involves conducting inspections, reviewing development proposals, and collaborating with various stakeholders to maintain and enhance the community's planning and zoning standards.

Essential Job Functions:

• Monitors and enforces planning and zoning regulations and ordinances in Dorchester County.
• Conducts inspections to ensure adherence to zoning regulations and land use ordinances.
• Reviews building permits, site plans, and subdivision proposals for compliance with zoning codes.
• Investigates and addresses zoning violations, issuing notices and coordinating corrective actions.
• Evaluates proposed developments for conformity with master plans, zoning ordinances, and other relevant regulations. Provides recommendations and feedback to developers and applicants during the planning and permitting process.
• Participates in meetings with planning boards, zoning commissions, and other relevant bodies. Assists in organizing public meetings and hearings related to zoning and planning issues.
• Responds to inquiries from the public regarding zoning regulations and land use policies.
• Educates property owners, developers, and the public on zoning requirements and processes.
• Maintains accurate records of inspections, permits, and enforcement actions.
• Prepares reports summarizing inspection findings and zoning compliance issues.
• Collaborates with the Director of Planning and Zoning to develop and update planning documents.
• Works closely with other county departments, environmental agencies, and local officials to coordinate planning and zoning activities.
• Collaborates with law enforcement and legal authorities when necessary to enforce zoning regulations.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education/Experience/Certifications (minimum qualifications):

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Environmental Science, Geography or related field with three years of progressive work experience in Planning and Zoning required; or any equivalent combination of education training and experience which provides the requisite knowledge skills and abilities for this job.
• Must possess a valid Maryland driver’s license
• Microsoft experience (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint).
• Excellent communication and people skills
• Ability to navigate stakeholder relationships and regulatory environments.
• Familiarity with Planning and Zoning software, technology, and trends.
• Physical requirements and working environment:
• Must be physically able to operate a variety of machinery and equipment including a computer, copier, telephone, and communications equipment. Must be able to use body members to work, move or carry objects or materials. This position requires walking, standing, bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, seeing, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions.
• Must be able to exert up to twenty pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to ten pounds of force frequently. Physical demand requirements are at levels of those for light work.
• Must be able to stand, walk, and traverse department and community for extended periods. Capable of ascending stairs and pedestrian areas as needed.
• Clear vision and hearing, including the ability to communicate effectively in various environments.
• Comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor settings, exposed to varying weather conditions.

Other:

• May be required to work on religious holidays.
• Regular and predictable attendance is required.
• Must work cooperatively with others.
• When position requires vehicle operation, responsible for the safety, readiness and operation of the vehicle and must abide by Dorchester’s safe driving policy.

Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance:

Dorchester County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires Dorchester County to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between Dorchester County and an employee and is subject to change as business/operational needs change. Note: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the Planning Inspector position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, responsibilities, or duties associated with the role.

About Dorchester County

Dorchester County is called “The Heart of the Eastern Shore” because its mid-shore location and its geographic configuration is heart-shaped. Throughout history, renowned individuals have called Dorchester County home: Harriet Tubman, the “Moses of her people,” who risked her life time and again to help dozens of enslaved people find freedom through the Underground Railroad in the mid-1800s; Annie Oakley, famed sharpshooter who lived here in the early 1900s; and Anna Ella Carroll, President Lincoln’s secret adviser and military strategist.