Code Compliance Officer

City of Gig Harbor•Gig Harbor, WA

3d•$38 - $48

About The Position

We’re looking for a confident, people-focused professional to join our team as the next Code Compliance Officer . This role requires someone who can build trust and work collaboratively with residents, local business, staff and elected officials to find practical, fair solutions to complex issues. The ideal candidate will bring a steady presence—someone who can navigate differing perspectives with empathy and clarity, ensure everyone feels heard and valued, and keep the city’s standards front and center. If you thrive on meaningful community engagement, clear communication, and balancing firmness with approachability, we invite you to apply. POSITION OVERVIEW The code compliance officer coordinates and performs varied and complex research and inspection work to enforce and ensure compliance with zoning, building, public works, and other city, county, state, and federal codes and ordinances. These include, but are not limited to land use, building, dangerous building, nuisances, signs, shorelines, forest practice, and critical areas.

Requirements

Knowledge of: Building and site construction standards, materials, and methods.
Code compliance methods, inspection, and investigation techniques.
General permit application processes.
Environmental best management practices.
General land-use and zoning principles.
Ability to: Communicate effectively with other employees and the public, individually and in groups, verbally in-person and by phone, and in writing.
Absorb and analyze information, draw sound conclusions, and make recommendations and decisions which address technical, financial, legal, and social consequences.
Effectively use oral and written communication to convey technical information and requirements in a clear, tactful, and accurate manner.
Exercise initiative in resolving disputes and complaints in an equitable, diplomatic manner, using reasonable judgement and appropriate discretion.
Plan and organize cases, complete work in a timely manner, work under pressure, and be flexible with changing priorities.
Effectively represent the city through effective public relations, professional demeanor, and excellent customer service.
Support and model the identified vision, values, and behaviors of the city.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the community development department and inter-departmentally.
Use initiative and independent judgement within established guidelines.
Work independently, without close supervision.
Read and interpret plans, specifications, maps, and engineering drawings and to compare them with the construction in progress.
Read, interpret, and apply work-related codes, ordinances, legal property descriptions, and other regulations and guidelines governing work assignments.
Use protective clothing and equipment such as a hardhat, protective eyewear, gloves, coveralls, safety footwear, respiratory protection, a Kevlar vest (or equivalent), and foul weather gear.
Any combination of education, training and experience that indicates the individual can successfully perform the job may be considered.
Three (3) years of experience in code compliance or a similar field.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
American Association of Code Enforcement (AACE)/International Code Council (ICC) Code Enforcement Officer certification or the ability to obtain it within one year of hire.
A valid Washington State driver’s license (or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire) and at least two years of driving experience.
A history of and ability to maintain safe and responsible driving that meets the city’s motor vehicle record minimum driving requirements.
Ability to pass position relevant pre-employment screening.

Nice To Haves

Degree in urban planning, construction management, law enforcement, public administration, or related field from an accredited college or university is preferred.

Responsibilities

Responds to and investigates complaints of potential code violations.
Coordinates code enforcement activities with government agencies and other city departments and divisions, including planning and building staff.
Conducts on-site inspections and follow-ups to ensure compliance with applicable zoning, building, critical areas and shoreline regulations, and other city codes and ordinances.
Issues “stop work” orders and violation notices on behalf of the city.
Conducts or assists with inspection of dangerous buildings and assists with coordinating the condemnation process as needed.
Works to resolve non-compliant or challenging cases and works with city attorney and/or special counsel on litigation; provides evidence to the court as required.
Investigates and takes code enforcement actions as needed to address possible violations of the city’s sign code.
Serves as a resource for city residents and staff regarding code requirements.
Prepares correspondence related to the status of code enforcement activities.
Communicates with residents, neighborhood/homeowner associations, business owners, other agencies, and the general public regarding city code, policies, procedures, rules, and regulations.
Testifies in court or at civil and administrative hearings.
Assist with updates to city code pertinent to the position or the essential functions of the position.
May support in leading part-time, temporary, or intern personnel within the division.
Maintains punctual and reliable attendance.