Code Enforcement Officer

City of Charleston

12h•Onsite

About The Position

The Code Enforcement Officer ensures compliance with municipal codes, ordinances, and permit requirements through inspections, complaint investigations, and enforcement of regulations intended to protect public safety and community livability. The position conducts fieldwork throughout the community, communicates with property owners, residents, and business owners, maintains case records, and may prepare materials for legal proceedings and testify in court. The role works in indoor and outdoor settings, including parks, streets, construction sites, public facilities, and offices, with regular community travel and exposure to varying weather. Evening, weekend, and holiday work may be scheduled. During emergencies, the position may be assigned 24-hour shifts or other emergency schedules. The position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Three to six years of experience.
Experience in code enforcement, regulatory compliance, or a related field.
Valid state-issued driver's license.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree preferred.

Responsibilities

Inspect assigned areas to identify and document potential violations of municipal codes, ordinances, and permit requirements.
Investigate citizen complaints by conducting field inspections and gathering information about alleged violations.
Verify that property owners and contractors have proper permits.
Explain inspection findings to property owners, residents, and business owners and encourage voluntary compliance before issuing citations.
Research municipal codes to identify specific violations and required actions.
Issue notices of violation and other enforcement documents when voluntary compliance is not achieved within established timelines.
Prepare case materials for legal proceedings and testify in court when necessary.
Patrol neighborhoods and business districts to identify potential violations involving overgrown vegetation, abandoned vehicles, garbage disposal, and other livability issues.
Conduct informational meetings with residents and property owners about code requirements.
Maintain detailed records of inspections, enforcement actions, and case statuses, and prepare required reports.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Attend work reliably as scheduled and perform assigned duties during established work hours.
Train on emergency operations procedures and perform assigned emergency duties when directed.