Code Enforcement Intern

County•Milwaukee, WI

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Code Enforcement Intern (CEI) performs code compliance inspections and public information programs within a designated geographic area. This is a paid, two-year, full-time position that combines classroom instruction with on-the-job experience to prepare interns for Code Enforcement Inspector positions. The intern must successfully complete college-level coursework defined by the Department of Neighborhood Services (DNS) Intern Program. The curriculum is approximately 31 college credits in areas including English, social sciences, math, computers, architecture, and code enforcement. Classes are held during work hours, and the City pays tuition. Coursework may be conducted virtually, in person, or through blended learning, and may occur during day or evening hours. Upon successful completion of the program’s experience and educational requirements, an incumbent may be promoted to Residential or Commercial Code Enforcement Inspector with DNS. Candidates selected for hire will start on or after December 21, 2026. The position involves field work throughout Milwaukee, including interior and exterior property inspections and work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Requirements

Be at least 18 years of age by the application period closing date.
Be eligible at the time of appointment to enroll in the college-level courses included in the Intern Program Curriculum.
Have a valid driver's license and a good driving record at the time of application, throughout the selection process, and throughout employment; the driver's license number must be listed on the application.
Have access to a properly insured automobile for use on the job at the time of appointment and throughout employment.
Be willing and able to perform field work in all Milwaukee neighborhoods and conduct interior and exterior property inspections.
Be willing and able to comply with the departmental dress code, climb ladders, stoop, bend, and work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Be able to participate in required classes virtually, in person, or via blended learning.
Be able to read and interpret the Milwaukee Code of Ordinances and other work-related documents.
Be able to attend and successfully complete the college-level courses in the Intern Program Curriculum.
Have observational skills and the ability to learn about building construction, systems, and conditions to assess safety and habitability and determine code compliance.
Be able to apply basic algebra and geometry concepts and make accurate calculations.
Be able to learn to use laptop and desktop computers, digital cameras, and mobile phones, and be able to read maps.
Have written communication skills to compose clear, correct correspondence and documentation, and verbal communication skills to share information effectively in person and by phone.
Have customer service skills, including the ability to handle complaints appropriately, use diplomacy, remain calm with upset customers, and read body language.
Be able to work cooperatively with people from differing backgrounds, as a team member and independently with minimal supervision.
Have sound reasoning, planning, and organizational skills; be able to meet deadlines, adjust priorities, and maintain accurate inspection records.
Be able to maintain awareness of surroundings and work safely.
Demonstrate honesty, integrity, and responsible use of organizational resources, and a commitment to maintaining and improving positive, clean, and safe neighborhoods.
Pass the required pre-employment physical exam, vision exam, audiogram, and drug screen.

Nice To Haves

Conversational proficiency in Spanish or Hmong.
Experience in the carpentry field.

Responsibilities

Conduct surveys and inspections to identify building maintenance and other code violations.
Research properties using the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access Consolidated Court Automation Program (CCAP) case management system and the Land Management System (LMS).
Document and review code violations and graffiti complaints; take digital photos and upload them to the computer system.
Monitor and document follow-up actions.
Issue and enforce orders to correct building code maintenance violations.
Report unsecured properties and register properties pending foreclosure.
Handle complaints from tenants and property owners by phone, email, or in person.
Meet with residents, property owners, block clubs, and community groups to discuss initiatives to improve neighborhood conditions.
Prepare, organize, and maintain records of inspections and violations.
Issue pre-inspection letters and re-inspection fees.
Attend college-level classes at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) and complete the Intern Program Curriculum.
Attend in-service and other training sessions prescribed by DNS.