APD-Code Enforcement Officer I

City of Atlanta•Atlanta, GA

About The Position

Provides a safe and healthy environment for the City’s citizens by ensuring that buildings and land in the municipality comply with housing and zoning ordinances. The role inspects and investigates properties and buildings, determines the nature of environmental or health hazards, issues permits or citations, and applies state and federal regulations concerning land use, zoning, business permits, and building access. The position works under direct supervision and follows standard procedures and written instructions. It responds to public inquiries, investigates alleged ordinance violations, pursues compliance, prepares reports and case materials, coordinates with other departments and agencies, and may present evidence at appeal hearings and legal proceedings. The role also explains requirements to community groups and businesses, maintains enforcement records, and may provide guidance or training to lower-level staff, interns, or temporary employees.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least 2 years of experience in code enforcement, planning and zoning, or government relations, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Valid Georgia driver’s license.
Knowledge of law enforcement or land-use enforcement; City zoning ordinances; health codes and their application; municipal code enforcement methods and procedures; investigation, interviewing, and report-writing principles; safe inspection and enforcement practices; negotiation and conflict-resolution techniques; and real estate and mortgage instruments.
Skill in using computer applications; gathering and analyzing data for accurate written and statistical reports; and interpreting and implementing regulations, policies, and procedures related to inspections.
Ability to maintain effective working relationships with the public and City departments and identify appropriate solutions; communicate effectively orally and in writing, including in stressful or combative situations; encourage compliance creatively; apply analytical skills and understand the consequences of decisions; and read and interpret laws, codes, ordinances, and policies.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in criminal justice, planning, public or business administration, political science, geography, economics, or a closely related field.
3–5 years of experience in code enforcement, planning and zoning, or government relations.

Responsibilities

Respond to public inquiries about permits and licenses and explain municipal code requirements and procedures.
Gather facts about applicable ordinances, codes, laws, rules, and regulations, and determine and institute appropriate action.
Respond to and investigate complaints about City ordinance violations; issue notices specifying required changes and take appropriate action to ensure compliance.
Prepare reports and recommendations on code enforcement matters and seek voluntary compliance.
Coordinate enforcement actions with other departments, programs, jurisdictions, and regulatory agencies.
Prepare case information and present evidence at appeal hearings and other legal proceedings.
Explain and interpret requirements and make presentations to community groups and businesses.
Maintain records of applications, inspections, investigations, violations, hearings, and related data.
Research property ownership, current and past permits and applications, and applicable codes and laws; coordinate enforcement actions with other City departments.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Apply organizational policies and follow standardized procedures and written instructions.
Provide guidance and training as required to lower-level employees, interns, and temporary employees.