Job Summary
The Code Compliance Officer enforces City of Palacios ordinances that protect public health, safety and welfare. This position patrols the City, investigates violations, works with property owners to correct them, and prepares cases for Municipal Court. The role requires constant public contact and calm, tactful judgment.
Essential Duties
- Patrol the City to identify code violations and resolve them through direct contact with property owners when possible.
- Investigate and follow up on violations observed in the field or reported by police, City staff and the public.
- Conduct accurate, thorough investigations and keep complete case records.
- Coordinate with the Court Clerk to file complaints in Municipal Court and prepare cases for prosecution with the City's legal counsel.
- Attend court proceedings as scheduled or requested.
- Work with state, county and local agencies on health violations involving homes and their residents.
- Attend City Council meetings as needed.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Skills and Abilities
- Communicate clearly and professionally with the public, both verbally and in writing, including in tense situations.
- Use good judgment and stay calm in routine and emergency situations.
- Read and apply ordinances, policies and procedures.
- Organize caseloads, set priorities and work independently with little supervision.
- Use a computer for data entry, case tracking and reports.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED.
- At least 18 years of age and a U.S. citizen.
- Valid Texas driver's license.
- Must pass a full background investigation and drug screen.
- Must complete a Basic Code Enforcement course within 6 months of hire and be able to travel for training.
- Preferred: associate degree or higher, 1 year of code enforcement experience, and bilingual in English and Spanish.
Physical Demands and Working Conditions
- Work is split between the office and the field, with outdoor work in heat, cold and all weather.
- Requires driving a City vehicle for extended periods.
- May encounter hostile individuals, animals and unsafe property conditions.