Code Compliance Officer I/II

DEFINITION

The Planning and Building Department strives to provide the public with a positive experience within a regulatory framework that promotes public health, safety and welfare. By developing and implementing creative community-based strategies that consider all points of view, our work enhances economic opportunity, builds stronger neighborhoods and ensures a dynamic framework for quality growth and development.

Under general supervision, performs skilled work in the investigation, inspection and enforcement of County codes, ordinances and abatement regulations; performs related work as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Code Compliance Officer I is the entry level class in this code compliance series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents respond to more routine complaints while learning the more complex codes and regulations. This class is alternately staffed with Code Compliance Officer II and incumbents may advance to the higher level after gaining experience and demonstrating proficiency which meet the qualifications of the higher level class.

Code Compliance Officer II is the journey level class of the series, fully competent to perform responsible and difficult residential, hotel and motel, industrial and commercial inspections and code compliance work. Incumbents are expected to exercise independent judgment and make sound recommendations based on inspection findings.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

• Receives and responds to complaints regarding substandard dwellings or structures, zoning violations, signage, animal control problems, debris, unsanitary conditions, abandoned or inoperative vehicles, overgrown vegetation, home occupations, and other zoning and code violations.
• Requests building inspectors and others as appropriate conduct investigations and return photographs and other documentation to be evaluated.
• May conduct field investigations of possible violations of County codes.
• Maintains communication with all parties involved in compliance activities, mediating as needed.
• Contacts property owners and schedules and conducts on-site inspections; interprets codes and regulations and explains inspection procedures and regulations to involved parties.
• Monitors compliance activities and conducts follow-up and may conduct final inspections.
• Prepares necessary violation and other notices which outline proper repair and correction methods, time limits, permits and necessary remedial work required.
• Prepares required documentation for legal actions and conducts follow-up once legal activities have been initiated; appears in court as a County representative.
• Maintains records of inspections and related code enforcement files.
• Confers with other agencies and County departments on disposition of a variety of complaints and code violations.
• Facilitates cooperative agreements with local agencies municipalities and special districts.
• Acts as mediator when necessary to resolve complaints and compliance issues.
• Prepares a variety of periodic and specialized reports related to code compliance inspections and activities.
• May issue citations for non-compliance.
• May patrol areas to look for evidence of such nuisances and takes appropriate action.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Principles and methods of enforcing varied codes.
• Applicable laws, ordinances, regulations and codes.
• Appropriate occupancy, health and safety and related requirements.
• Principles and methods of investigation utilized in code compliance inspections.
• Regulations and requirements for court evidence documentation.
• Basic terminology used in zoning, including legal descriptions.
• Techniques for dealing with individuals of various socio- economic groups, often where relations may be strained.
• Principles and practices of mediation for conflict resolution.
• Business computer applications, particularly as related to statistical analysis and recordkeeping.

Skill in:

• Investigating zoning, nuisance and other complaints in a timely and tactful manner.
• Interpreting and explaining a variety of codes, ordinances and other regulations to the public.
• Dealing courteously, but firmly, and communicating effectively with a variety of individuals contacted in the course of work including resolving conflicts and problems.
• Preparing accurate and detailed documentation of inspection findings and other written materials.
• Preparing clear, concise and complete records, correspondence and other written materials.
• Maintaining organized and accurate records of inspections and code enforcement files.
• Organizing work, setting priorities and exercising sound, independent judgment within established guidelines.
• Making persuasive oral presentations of ideas and recommendations.
• Effective conflict resolution.

Other Requirements:

Must possess a valid California driver's license.

Desirable Education and Experience:

A typical way to obtain the knowledge and skills outlined above is:

• Code Compliance Officer I: Two years of experience in EITHER processing permit applications and enforcing various building and/or planning codes OR in work which has involved explaining and gaining adherence to policies and regulations.
• Code Compliance Officer II: In addition to the above, two years of code inspection and compliance experience at a level equivalent to the County's class of Code Compliance Officer I.

WORKING CONDITIONS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

HOW TO APPLY

A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through the County’s automated application system at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/humboldtcountyca.

Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.

It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess. Human Resources staff does not consider or review resumes or attachments. Incomplete applications will be rejected.

Please read the job requirements section of the announcement. Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.

Your performance in any employment examinations will be compared with the performance of others who take the tests. The examination results will be emailed to you as quickly as possible.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to fill out the application?

Can I change my application after submitting it?

How long until I hear back from you and how can I check for updates on my application?

Will I be informed if I am not selected for an interview / Oral Exam?

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways – oftentimes, outside of formal institutions – and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant’s qualifications for a position.

If you’re excited about this role but your past work experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at (707) 476-2349 so arrangements can be made.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances.

MEDICAL EXAMINATION

A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.

OTHER EXAMINATIONS

Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.

LICENSES

Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver’s license.

PROBATIONARY PERIOD

Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.

EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY

It is the County’s intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS

All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.