Zoning Enforcement Specialist

Job Description:

Zoning Enforcement Specialist

Description

Zoning Enforcement Official

The Zoning Enforcement Official position is responsible for the enforcement of the City's Unified Development Ordinance governing development and use of all property in Wilson. This position performs technical inspection duties to enforce local, state, and federal codes, and ordinances. Successful performance ensures compliance with zoning codes and ordinances.

Major Duties

• Investigating all zoning and land development complaints, documenting findings, initiating prescribed enforcement procedures and monitoring after initial inspections to ensure compliance.
• May assist with other local code compliance activities where they may overlap with zoning issues.
• Caseload management, including data entry, issuing Notices of Violations and preparing civil penalties; and coordinating with other staff to address compliance issues.
• Preparing documents and presenting cases and evidence in support of appeals of staff actions/interpretations before any of the City's Boards/Commissions/offices as necessary.
• Working with both violators and complainants to explain ordinance requirements, procedures, and explain in common terms zoning regulations pursuant to the City's Zoning Ordinances, Zoning Districts, and in conformity to the Comprehensive Plan.
• Respond to inquiries from the development community and the general public regarding land usage, zoning codes, and related ordinances.
• Coordinating with Development Services staff for permit review and approval of applications; researching applicable site requirements and conducting site inspections to verify compliance and approved plans and permits needed.
• Inspecting and removing signs, banners, and other forms of illegal advertisement posted within the City's rights-of-way.
• Responsible for attending community and neighborhood meetings, including evening meetings, as needed.
• Participating in continuing education and professional development workshops, classes, and other activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned to assist Land Development, Development Services, and the City of Wilson.

Guidelines include the department standard operating procedures, development and zoning ordinances, and relevant city, state, and federal laws, and relations. These guidelines are generally clear and specific, but may require some interpretation in application.

Supervisory/Management Responsibility None

Education/Experience Requirements

• Degree from an accredited college or university preferred in Planning, Public Administration or related field of study, or equivalent experience in code enforcement.
• Experience sufficient to thoroughly understand the work of subordinate positions to be able to answer questions and resolve problems, usually associated with one to three years experience or service.
• Certified Zoning Official (CZO) or the ability to obtain within 1 year of date of hire.

Knowledge Requirements

• Basic knowledge of local Governance and processes and the ability to understand the purpose of this position, as well as, understanding the basics of land use planning and regulations
• Knowledge of department and city policies and procedures and federal, state, and local codes, laws, and regulations.
• Skill in performing on-site zoning inspections.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally.
• Skill in operation of computers, GIS, and other standard office equipment.
• Ability to possess and maintain a valid NC Driver's License and be insurable through the City's insurance standards.
• Skill in planning, organization, and decision making.
• Skill in interpersonal relations.
• Knowledge of safety procedures.

The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table or while intermittently standing, walking, bending, crouching, or stooping. The employee occasionally lifts objects not to exceed 50 pounds. The work is typically performed in an office and at inspection sites. Work may be performed outdoors and occasionally in hot, cold, or inclement weather. The employee may be exposed to dust, dirt, grease, noise, machinery with moving parts, and irritating chemicals. The work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, or gloves.