Assistant Zoning Officer, Bethlehem Township

Pennboc; Bethlehem (Northampton County); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Bethlehem Township is seeking an Assistant Zoning Officer to join the Community Development Department on a full-time basis. The role supports the Zoning Officer with permits, investigations and administration of zoning rules, and requires collaboration with staff and external stakeholders across planning-related programs.

The candidate will assist with zoning permits, research regulations, and provide information to the public.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in planning, urban studies, government or public administration majors; equivalent relevant experience; or a combination of experience and education equivalent to four years.
• Strong customer service and relationship building skills; working knowledge of ordinances and local government.

Responsibilities

• Answer inquiries from property owners, contractors, developers and others concerning zoning requirements.
• Receive and review zoning permit applications and issue permits as directed.
• Receive and review complaints regarding alleged zoning violations; prepare notices of violation; and initiate action toward compliance.
• Perform inspections and investigations at properties throughout the Township.
• Read, understand and interpret zoning regulations, technical material and approved construction plans and drawings.
• Participate in, and provide technical assistance prior to and during, Zoning Hearing Board meetings.
• Maintain records of Zoning Hearing Board appeals and hearings.

Skills

Customer service

Relationship building

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in planning/urban studies/government or public administration

Job description

Bethlehem Township is currently seeking an Assistant Zoning Officer. This is a full-time, professional position within the Township’s Community Development Department. The Assistant Zoning Officer will assist the Zoning Officer with zoning permits, investigating complaints, researching zoning regulation, and administration of the Zoning Hearing Board. The Assistant Zoning Officer provides technical assistance and information to staff and the general public in the administration of the Zoning Ordinance and specific planning-related programs, works closely with other code officials, and travels to perform zoning inspections.

Key responsibilities include:

• Answer inquiries from, and provide information to, property owners, contractors, developers, and other individuals concerning zoning requirements.
• Receive and review zoning permit applications and issue permits, as directed.
• Receive and review complaints regarding alleged zoning violations; prepare notices of violation; and initiate action toward compliance.
• Perform inspections and investigations at properties throughout the Township.
• Read, understand and interpret zoning regulations, technical material and approved construction plans and drawings.
• Participate in, and provide technical assistant prior to and during, Zoning Hearing Board meetings.
• Maintain records of Zoning Hearing Board appeals and hearings.

Candidates should have the following education and experience, at a minimum:

• Bachelor’s degree, with preference given to planning, urban studies, government or public administration majors; equivalent relevant experience; or a combination of experience and education equivalent to four years.
• Candidates should have working knowledge of ordinances and local government. Strong customer service and relationship building skills are also necessary.