Code Enforcement Officer I - CRA

Code Enforcement OfficerThe purpose of this classification is to enforce applicable federal, state, and local codes and ordinances to protect the health, welfare, and safety of citizens. Responds to complaints, issues citations, and assists with and participates in the prosecution of cases for non-compliance. Employees in this classification are eligible for noncompetitive career ladder promotion to Code Enforcement Officer II after meeting the established career ladder requirements. Applicants hired from this recruitment will be assigned to the CRA Schedule: Sunday-Thursday 5am-2pm Tuesday-Saturday 1pm-10pm The following duties and functions, as outlined herein, are intended to be representative of the type of tasks performed within this classification. They are not listed in any order of importance. The omission of specific statements of the duties or functions does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned. Interprets and enforces the provisions of applicable federal, state, and local codes, ordinances, laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies and procedures; initiates any actions necessary to correct deviations or violations. Responds to complaints and questions concerning code violations and code enforcement issues; provides information and technical assistance; researches problems and initiates problem resolution; discusses problem areas with property owners, property managers, and contractors; mediates disputes between neighbors. Proactively approaches vendors and property owners on site to advise when necessary. Operates a City vehicle to patrol assigned coverage area; performs inspections of buildings and property for conformance with applicable codes; installs signs; measures size/weight of illegally dumped trash piles; interprets site plans, blueprints, and plot maps; conducts re-inspections as needed; verifies permits and occupational licenses; monitors vacant houses for security; photographs violations for evidence Prepares violation notices; processes violations initiated by other departments; issues citations for code violations as appropriate. Assists with the management of cases, researching property records to determine ownership of property; performs other related work in preparation for prosecutions. Gathers information and evidence for prosecution of violators; testifies at code enforcement magistrate's hearings as needed. Manages case data; makes photographic records of violations; prepares/maintains records of inspection activities, violation notices, and status of corrective actions. Prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, logs, demolition reports, citations, violation notices, maps, or other documents. Develops methods to help homeowners and commercial properties gain compliance. Receives various forms, reports, correspondence, citizen complaint forms, deeds, permits, occupational licenses, red tags, violation notices, site plans, blueprints, plat maps, policies, codes, ordinances, statutes, zoning maps, manuals, reference materials, or other documentation; reviews, completes, processes, forwards or retains as appropriate. Operates a computer to enter, retrieve, review or modify data; utilizes word processing, database, or other software programs. Operates a variety of equipment and tools associated with inspection activities, which may include a motor vehicle, camera, radio communications equipment, sound level meter, measuring devices, rake, shovel, post hole digger, or hammer. Follows safety procedures, utilizes safety equipment, and monitors work environment to ensure safety of employees and other individuals. Communicates via telephone and/or two-way radio; provides information and assistance; takes and relays messages; responds to requests for service or assistance. Communicates with supervisor, employees, other departments, City officials, government agencies, property owners, property managers, business owners, contractors, realtors, attorneys, homeowner associations, the public, outside agencies, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems. Provides education and information to the community; prepares and distributes educational materials. Maintains current knowledge of applicable laws/regulations; maintains an awareness of new trends and advances in the profession; reads professional literature; maintains professional affiliations; attends workshops and training sessions as appropriate. Performs various clerical tasks associated with work activities, which may include copying documents, sending faxes, answering telephone calls, assisting citizens visiting the office, or filing documentation. Provides assistance or coverage to other employees as needed. Additional Functions Provides assistance or coverage to other employees as needed. Performs other related duties as required. Employees in this classification may be required to work various shifts, to include nights, weekends and holidays based on area of assignment. Code Enforcement Officers assigned to the Solid Waste Division have emphasis in reactive and scheduled enforcement Citywide in the area of Solid Waste. The incumbent will perform the following additional duties: Serve as a liaison between the Community Standards and Solid Waste division. Responsible for ensuring solid waste hauling, storage, and removal is done so in compliance with applicable county and local solid waste & recycling regulations. Educates the community regarding regulations and policies associated with solid waste removal and proper recycling procedures; prepares and distributes educational materials. Attends educational events as a City representative and any related training as requested by Management. Prepares and distributes educational materials. Performs inspections in an effort to eliminate illegal solid waste dumping throughout the City, including identifying existing dump sites and new dump sites to cease and deter persons from illegal dumping. Responsible for using proper laws, codes, and ordinances for enforcement and prevention. Operates a City vehicle to patrol the City; performs inspections of commercial and residential properties for conformance with applicable solid waste codes; illegal roll-offs, authorized roll-offs conditions, oversize vegetation and bulk piles, early setouts, etc. Code Enforcement Officers assigned to the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) have emphasis in outreach, education, and community partnership within CRA boundaries. The incumbents will perform the following additional duties: Serve as a liaison between the Code Enforcement Department and the Community Redevelopment Agency. Conduct proactive inspections throughout the CRA district to identify potential code violations related to property maintenance, zoning, nuisance conditions, and other applicable ordinances. Build and maintain positive working relationships with CRA residents, business owners, neighborhood associations, and community stakeholders to promote voluntary compliance and community beautification. Collaborate with the Neighborhood Officer Policing Program to exchange information, coordinate field activity, and address recurring community concerns. Provide outreach and education to residents and businesses regarding applicable codes, property standards, and remediation expectations. Attend CRA events or meetings under supervision to support compliance and community engagement as needed. Participate in continuous improvement efforts by identifying recurring issues in the CRA district and recommending targeted strategies or focused enforcement initiatives. Minimum QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; and Three (3) years previous experience involving customer service, building construction, building inspection or code enforcement*; and Must possess [or be able to obtain within twelve (12) months of employment] and maintain a valid Florida Association of Code Enforcement (FACE) Fundamentals of Code Enforcement Certification; and Must possess [or obtain within fourteen (14) days of hire] and maintain Florida Parking Enforcement Specialist Certification; and Must possess [or be able to obtain within 14 days of hire] and maintain a valid Florida driver's license. *For positions assigned to the Solid Waste Division, qualifying experience may also include three (3) years of experience involving solid waste operations in addition to the above categories. *For positions assigned to the CRA, qualifying experience may also include three (3) years of experience involving community outreach in addition to the above categories. Preferred Qualifications Minimum Qualifications for education, experience, and certifications must be met before consideration of the following Preferred Qualifications: Associate's degree in public administration, business administration, fire science, construction, civil engineering, architecture, urban planning, or closely related field. One (1) year previous experience involving customer service, building construction, building inspection or code enforcement. Possess a valid Florida Association of Code Enforcement (FACE) Fundamentals of Code Enforcement Certification Supplemental InformationKnowledge of City zoning code, ordinances and applicable state laws pertaining to housing standards, littering, and noise abatement, public health code, rules and regulations governing inspection and enforcement. Knowledge of City and CRA goals related to redevelopment, beautification, neighborhood stabilization, and community partnerships. Knowledge of departmental policies and procedures. Knowledge of investigation techniques and practices. Knowledge of safe and efficient work practices related to inspections and enforcement duties. Knowledge of the geography of the City. Demonstrated ability to accurately interpret and apply codes and ordinances in routine situations. Demonstrated ability to work independently and to adhere to established policies and procedures. Ability to confer with the public in-person, on the phone or electronically. Demonstrated ability to explain, interpret and enforce regulations in a tactful, courteous and impartial manner, and to identify and resolve problems. Demonstrated ability to recognize deviations from code requirements and from established policies and procedures. Ability to observe and detect unsafe and hazardous conditions in the field. Ability to effectively deal with individuals in an emotionally charged state while maintaining a professional demeanor. Demonstrated ability to read site plans, blueprints, plots and zoning maps. Ability to ascertain facts through investigation. Ability to operate a computer and to utilize software required to complete assignments. Communication Competencies The ability to clearly communicate Department and City Goals, Policies, Strategic Plans and other key information to employees and peers using multiple communication platforms including e-mail and social media. Effectively communicates with supervisor, employees, other departments, contractors, engineers, companies, vendors, outside agencies, the public, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems. Accurately and expeditiously receives and delivers messages and information to the appropriate individuals. Ability to prepare accurate and thorough written records and reports. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions and to complete assigned tasks with minimal direction. Ability to understand and quickly and accurately follow brief oral and written instructions on moderately