CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER (PAY GRADE 21) AFSCME LOCAL 1607

New-Castle-County-Government; Christiana Acres (DE); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

New Castle County Government is seeking a Code Enforcement Constable to conduct field investigations, enforce county codes, and prosecute violations as needed. The role requires evaluating compliance, preparing case reports, and testifying in court.

The position emphasizes strong communication, integrity, and ability to work with diverse stakeholders. Experience in enforcement, knowledge of codes, and ability to pass background checks are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Proven ability to conduct investigations and code research.
• Experience with court testimony and legal proceedings preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field investigations and prepare reports.
• Research codes and ordinances; notify violators.
• Prosecute code violators in court when required.

Skills

Code enforcement

Investigations

Court testimony

Communication

Confidentiality

Education

High school diploma or GED

ICC certification within 6 months

Tools

DELJIS system

Courtroom technology

Job description

In accordance with the Merit System Rules and Regulations, an eligible list, which will be valid for a one-year period and which will be used to fill vacancies during that period, is being established for this classification. Applicants on the eligible list will be certified in accordance with the Merit System and appropriate union contracts.

EXAMINATION PROCESS

The examination process for this posting may include an evaluation of training and experience, a written examination, a computerized exam, an oral board interview examination, a performance examination or any combination of the above in order to qualify applicants for placement on the eligible list. The eligible list will be used to fill vacancies that occur within the next year. The appropriate number of names on the eligible list as prescribed by Merit System Section 26.03.505 will be certified to the hiring department for consideration to fill the vacant position(s).

New employees are generally hired at the starting salary and may be eligible for merit increases each year upon receipt of a satisfactory performance evaluation, up to the maximum salary.

New Castle County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

An employee in this class is responsible for conducting investigations and ensuring compliance with all County codes and related ordinances. The employee prosecutes violators in Magistrate Court as necessary, may testify in a higher court if necessary and works under general supervision. An employee in this class will be appointed a Code Enforcement Constable pursuant to State law to make actions legally effective.

EXAMPLES OF WORK

• Performs field investigations and prepares related reports;
• Researches codes and ordinances regarding alleged violations;
• Notifies violators of code violations and code provisions;
• Confers with violators, attorneys, judges and other governmental agencies;
• Follows up on code violations to ensure correction and compliance;
• Collects evidence and prosecutes code violators in court;
• Appears in court to testify as a witness when necessary;
• Prepares and issues summonses to appear in court;
• Serves summonses on violators when necessary;
• Obtains, compiles, and organizes data;
• Answers inquiries regarding code violations and provides advice on code compliance;
• Posts stop work orders and condemnation notices when necessary;
• Promotes an ongoing attitude of dedication to excellent public service and ensures that external and internal customers are provided with the highest quality of service;
• Operates a personal computer and other related equipment in the course of the work;
• May require an evening or weekend inspection as part of an investigation outside of normal working hours.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of County codes, zoning laws, regulations and ordinances;
• Ability to learn the practices and procedures of the Magistrate Court system;
• Ability to perform investigations and appropriate code research to ensure conformance to codes;
• Ability to make accurate and articulate presentations in Magistrate Court;
• Ability to communicate courteously and effectively, both verbally and in writing;
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with County employees, the public, government officials, attorneys, outside agencies, organizations and individuals;
• Ability to recognize the sensitivity of issues and assignments and to maintain confidentiality;
• Ability to prepare reports and keep appropriate records.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• At least three (3) years of experience in work related to building, property maintenance codes, construction related work, community relations, Constable, Court or Correctional Officer/enforcement experience; or
• Three (3) years investigative experience; and
• Possession of a high school diploma or GED; or
• An equivalent combination of experience, education or training directly related to the required knowledge, skills and abilities;
• Possession of a valid Delaware Class D driver’s license or its equivalent;
• Ability to pass a County background check to include clearance to work in the DELJIS system;
• Ability to pass a class III County physical exam.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Successful completion of ICC: 64 (Property Maintenance and Housing Inspector certification) within six (6) months of date of hire or promotion. Certification must remain valid as a condition of employment. All costs associated with ICC examinations, verification, and subsequent maintenance of status in such examination areas shall be borne by the employee or applicant, unless otherwise provided for in a collective bargaining agreement.

NOTE

Any employee who is in this position as of March 15, 2016, shall be exempt from the additional qualifications regarding ICC certifications.

Laura McDermott

Office of Human Resources

[e-mail]