Zoning Enforcement Officer

Code Enforcement Officer

The purpose of this position is to enforce, investigate, coordinate, direct, assist and advise the code enforcement staff regarding the enforcement and investigation of violations of various Lancaster County codes and ordinances, to prepare and maintain requireddocumentation; to prepare for and assist in presentation at court hearings, and to perform related work as required. This position is responsible for conducting field investigations to identify code violations; interviews and obtains statements as necessary from violators, witnesses, and persons filing complaints. Receives, investigates, and responds to citizen inquires/complaints regarding County Codes and Ordinances. The class works within a general outline of work to be performed, and develops work methods and sequences under general supervision.

Assists and coordinates the daily task of Code Enforcement. This includes assisting staff with cases and providing input and insight on processing violations; ensuring that cases are processed in a timely manner and in accordance with our procedures and policies; maintaining communication with staff and supervisors to ensure that information regarding cases is conveyed accurately. Receives, investigates and responds to public inquiries, requests for assistance and complaints regarding County codes and ordinances. Presents code cases and attends court hearings. Conducts field investigations to identify code violations; interviews and obtains statements as necessary from violators, witnesses and confidential informers; conducts visual surveillance of properties as necessary. Prepares and submits notices of confirmed violations; provides to appropriate individuals written and verbal explanations of all options for violation abatement. Assists various County officials with investigations and enforcement through respective departments. Prepares and maintains accurate and up-to-date case files, records and reports; maintains up-to-date computer database of cases. Researches the zoning and ownerships of each non-compliant property. Receives and receipts various fees and fines. Other duties include reading, comprehending, interpreting, analyzing and explaining codes and ordinances to the public. Assists the Sheriff's Department and DHEC in investigating code violations. Assists the Fire Prevention Department with cases and court hearing. Prepares a variety of studies, reports and related information for decision-making purposes. Attends training, seminars, meetings, etc., to enhance job knowledge and skills. Stays abreast of statutory regulations, requirements and changes that relate to assigned programs and projects. Performs general clerical work as required, including but not limited to preparing reports and correspondence, copying and filing documents, entering and retrieving computer data, answering the telephone, attending meetings, etc. Prepares presentations for hearings and court cases. Prepares, serves and delivers summonses and subpoenas for code violators. Informs supervisors of case status on a regular basis.

Education and experience requirements include completion of a Bachelor's degree and three years of code enforcement or law enforcement experience. Certifications and licenses such as Upper State Code Enforcement Association/South Carolina Litter Association are preferred. Knowledge of county zoning ordinances, building and code standards, and researching property ownership are required. Skills in communicating with and supervising code enforcement staff, preparing case files, documenting violations, and managing inventory, property, or loss control are necessary. Physical and dexterity requirements include walking, reaching, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling under 1/3 of the time; standing, sitting, climbing or balancing 1/3 to 2/3 of the time; talking or hearing over 2/3 of the time; and lifting up to 100 pounds under 1/3 of the time. Vision requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Potential environmental conditions/hazards include exposure to indoor and outdoor environments, noise, extreme temperatures, vibration, moisture and/or humidity, dust, fumes, gases, poor ventilation, electrical hazards, mechanical hazards, chemical hazards, explosive hazards, burn hazards, and potential for violence/physical altercations.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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