Code Compliance Specialist

Office of Public Response; Santa Cruz (CA); On-site; USD 82,000 - 115,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

CalPERS retirement

medical

dental

vision

basic life insurance

long-term disability

Employee Assistance Program

vacation time

sick time

up to 13 paid holidays per year

Job summary

City of Santa Cruz is seeking a Code Compliance Specialist to enforce building, zoning, fire, housing, health, and safety regulations. You will inspect properties, evaluate evidence, prepare reports, and guide permit processes while coordinating with city staff and partner agencies.

The role requires clear communication, ability to interpret municipal codes, and a commitment to public safety. Excellent benefits are provided, with a focus on service to the community.

Qualifications

• Experience in code compliance or regulatory enforcement.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to interpret and apply municipal codes and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections and investigations to ensure compliance.
• Evaluate evidence and prepare reports and case documentation.
• Interpret and apply municipal codes and regulations; provide guidance on permitting and compliance.
• Coordinate with other agencies and take enforcement action when needed.

Skills

Public service

Investigation

Communication

Job description

Code Compliance Specialist

City of Santa Cruz

$39.22-$55.19 Hourly

$6,798-$9,566 Monthly

$81,576-$114,792 Annually

Join our team as a Code Compliance Specialist and make a meaningful difference in the safety, quality, and livability of our community. Working under general direction, you’ll combine fieldwork, investigation, problem-solving, and public service to ensure properties meet building, zoning, fire, housing, health, and safety requirements. You’ll interact with property owners, residents, City staff, and partner agencies, helping people understand regulations and find practical paths toward compliance. This is an opportunity to do work that is visible, varied, and directly connected to the well-being of the community.

We’re looking for a professional, resourceful, and community-focused individual who enjoys working with people and tackling challenging issues. You’ll conduct inspections and investigations, evaluate evidence, prepare reports and case documentation, interpret and apply municipal codes and regulations, provide guidance on permitting and compliance requirements, coordinate with other agencies, and take appropriate enforcement action when needed. If you’re a strong communicator who enjoys learning, solving problems, and turning complex requirements into clear solutions, this position offers a rewarding opportunity to build your career while serving the community.

The City of Santa Cruz offers excellent benefits including.

• CalPERS retirement
• medical
• dental
• vision
• basic life insurance
• long-term disability
• an Employee Assistance Program
• vacation time
• sick time
• up to 13 paid holidays per year

Deadline to apply is 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 8, 2026.

City of Santa Cruz Human Resources Department

809 Center St., Room 6, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

[phone]

[e-mail]

EOE/ADA