Job Abstract

Under immediate (Code Enforcement Officer I) to general (Code Enforcement Officer II) supervision, performs a variety of routine to complex field and office work in support of the City’s code enforcement programs; identifies, investigates, and corrects violations of the City’s municipal, zoning, housing, development, and building codes, public nuisances, and other issues relating to health, safety, and welfare of the community; serves as a resource and provides information on City regulations to property owners, businesses, the general public, and other City departments and divisions; prepares abatement cases for and testifies in public hearings and court proceedings on behalf of the City; and performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives immediate (Code Enforcement Officer I) to general (Code Enforcement Officer II) supervision from the Code Enforcement Manager. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

Code Enforcement Officer I: This is the entry level classification in the Code Enforcement Officer series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine field investigations. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult. Close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of positions at the II-level, but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.

Code Enforcement Officer II: This is the journey level classification in the Code Enforcement Officer series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the I-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from Senior Code Enforcement Officer in that the latter performs the more complex work assigned to the series and serves in a lead capacity over assigned staff.

Positions in the Code Enforcement class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the II-level are normally filled by advancement from the next lower level upon management approval, after gaining the knowledge, skill, and experience which meet the qualifications for and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of the higher-level class, subject to budgetary funds.

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only) Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

Some duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities may be performed/exercised in a learning capacity for entry-level (I-level) positions.

• Conducts inspections to determine potential code violations; receives, records, and investigates complaints from the public and staff regarding violations of municipal, zoning, housing, development, building, and signage codes; documents violations by securing photographs and other pertinent data.
• Initiates contacts with property owners, business representatives, and other parties to explain the nature of incurred violations and to encourage compliance with City codes, ordinances, resolutions, and community standards; provides confirmation regarding code regulations to the public by telephone and in person.
• Proactively conducts drive-by or on-site inspections of residential, industrial, and/or commercial areas; notes violations at other property sites during field investigations.
• Prepares and issues written notices of violation or noncompliance, final notices, citations, and other correspondence according to applicable codes and regulations; issues letters to property owners notifying them of violations; as appropriate, affixes a notice of violation on property to abate public safety hazards and nuisances.
• Researches property ownership, zoning, and parcel history; examines ordinances to identify those affecting property uses; determines compliance of specific land with use permits, variances and development plans where improvements have been directed to meeting zoning requirements.
• Coordinates and conducts follow-up abatement procedures including the preparation of additional correspondence, site visits, and communication with property owners; conducts follow-up investigations to ensure compliance with applicable codes and ordinances; prepares non-compliance cases for legal action; presents testimony at hearings.
• Coordinates joint abatement and investigation activities with other City departments and agencies; informs parties of investigation status; provides follow up reports, records, and data to assist other departments with the zoning and abatement process.
• Performs a variety of public relations and outreach work related to assigned activities; participates in special projects as assigned.
• Maintains files, databases, and records related to citations and violations; prepares a variety of written reports, memoranda, and correspondence.
• Receives, investigates, and responds to difficult and sensitive problems and complaints in a professional manner; identifies and reports findings and takes necessary corrective action.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:

• Principles, practices, methods and techniques of code violation investigations, enforcement and compliance including documenting inspections and preparing violation notifications.
• Legal terminology used in code enforcement compliance.
• Legal descriptions and boundary maps of real property.
• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices relevant to code enforcement work.
• Effective public relations practices.
• Recordkeeping principles and procedures.
• Techniques for effectively representing the City in contacts with governmental agencies, community groups, and various business, professional, educational, regulatory, and legislative organizations.
• Recent and on-going developments, current literature, and sources of information related to the code compliance.
• Methods and techniques of preparing technical and administrative reports, and general business correspondence.
• City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, contractors, and City staff.
• Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging concepts and principles, including their significance in organizational dynamics and functioning of the City and their impact on fostering innovation and collaboration.
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Current equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

• Research, interpret, explain, and enforce municipal, zoning, and related codes, ordinances and regulations.
• Solicit cooperation with violators to achieve code compliance.
• Maintain a variety of filing, record keeping and tracking systems.
• Read and interpret legal descriptions and boundary maps.
• Respond to inquiries, complaints, and requests for service in a fair, tactful and timely manner.
• Make oral presentations and testify in court as needed.
• Prepare clear and concise correspondence, documentation, and other written materials.
• Coordinate activities with other City departments, outside and agencies and other parties of interest.
• Organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, legal and procedural guidelines.
• Engage with a diverse public and workforce, facilitating inclusive service delivery, and implementing equitable city policies.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

• Code Enforcement Officer I/II: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade supplemented by specialized training or coursework in code enforcement, building inspection, construction management, criminal justice, or a related field.

• Code Enforcement Officer I: One (1) year of experience supporting municipal code and zoning compliance programs and/or activities.

• Code Enforcement Officer II: Two (2) years of increasingly responsible code enforcement experience including performing investigations and enforcing administrative rules and regulations equivalent to the City’s Code Enforcement Officer I classification.

• Code Enforcement Officer I/II: Possession of, or ability to obtain by the time of appointment, an appropriate, valid California driver’s license. This requirement may be waived for individuals who are unable to obtain a driver’s license due to a disability.

• Code Enforcement Officer I: Completion of Basic Code Enforcement Officer certification within one (1) year of appointment and completion of POST PC 832 certification within six (6) months of appointment.

• Code Enforcement Officer II: Possession of Basic Code Enforcement Officer and POST PC 832 certification AND completion of Intermediate Code Enforcement Officer certification within one (1) year of appointment.

When assigned to an office environment:

Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer, and to operate a motor vehicle to visit various City and meeting sites; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. Standing in and walking between work areas is frequently required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification frequently bend, stoop, kneel, and reach to perform assigned duties, as well as push and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 10 pounds. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities who are qualified to perform essential functions of a position or positions within this classification.

When assigned to a field environment:

Must possess mobility to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, and grasp; strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light physical work; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone or radio. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate above-mentioned tools and equipment. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 50 pounds or heavier weights with the use of proper equipment and assistance from other staff. The work requires wear and use of proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities who are qualified to perform essential functions of a position or positions within this classification.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees work in the field and are occasionally exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, and hazardous chemical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with members of the public or with staff under emotionally stressful conditions while interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

The City of Elk Grove is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and professionalism. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, should special accommodations be necessary at any stage of the selection process, please contact the Human Resources Department at (916) 478- 2230. The information above is subject to change without notice.