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NATURE OF WORK
This is skilled field inspection and code enforcement work in securing compliance with all laws, regulations and ordinances governing land, existing buildings and related environmental conditions and the review and processing of building permits.
Work involves responsibility for inspecting commercial and residential structures, land and related environmental factors to determine compliance with all applicable laws, codes, ordinances and regulations. Responsibilities include preparing reports of findings and the initiation of appropriate correspondence and notices to occupants and owners and the review and processing of building permit applications. An employee in this class works independently in the field and office and is responsible for making decisions requiring considerable technical judgment and exercising tact, firmness and initiative during often sensitive contact with property owners. Work may include the more difficult and specialized inspection tasks such as assisting in condemnation and demolition proceedings. Employees in this position are expected to be able to perform any and all work tasks and comply with any work schedules or attendance or duty requirements which may be established by City rules or applicable union contracts. Work is performed under the general direction of a supervisor and is reviewed through periodic checks, conferences, analysis of reports and evaluation of results achieved.
ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF WORK
Conducts inspections, examinations and surveys of residential and commercial structures to determine compliance with laws, codes, regulations and ordinances.
Conducts inspections and investigates complaints regarding zoning violations; schedules routine and follow up inspections and periodic neighborhood surveys to determine violations.
Conducts inspections relating to the right to occupy and use real or tangible property or structures which are in violation of applicable laws, codes or regulations.
Conducts inspections relating to acts of persons in violation of laws, codes and regulations relating to any environmental factors affecting the life, health and welfare of the community.
Prepares and maintains records and written reports of findings and initiates correspondence and violation notices listing the violations and ordering that appropriate remedial action be taken.
Prepares and maintains various records through the use of a computer terminal, keyboard and mouse to accurately enter data and type reports.
Initiates court action against owners failing to comply; serves as a coordinator for legal action and as a witness against the offender during public hearings, which may be televised.
Attends civic and public meetings for the purpose of explaining various processes, laws, codes, ordinances and regulations.
Utilizes plat sheets, computer terminal, microfilm viewer , interprets blueprints, plans , and aerial photographs.
Researches records to identify legal ownership, locations , zoning classifications and any previous court proceedings involving properties having code violations.
May be assigned more difficult work such as the coordination of securing and condemnation or demolition proceedings levied against violators and duties related to permit processing and issuance.
Performs related work as assigned.

INVESTIGATOR
DESIRABLE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Considerable knowledge of building construction and maintenance practices.
Some knowledge of federal, state and local housing, zoning and related environmental laws, regulations and ordinances.
Skill in the operation of a computer and associated programs and data systems, microfilm viewer, camera and other modern office equipment used for researching and recording information.
Ability to retrieve information using a variety of source materials and to prepare and maintain moderately complex records, reports, case files and filing systems.
Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion in applying and interpreting departmental rules, regulations, policies and procedures.
Ability to interpret and enforce laws, regulations and codes with firmness, tact and impartiality.
Ability to maintain accurate records, reports and case files.
Ability to communicate and testify clearly and concisely, orally and in writing , to individuals and larger groups, and to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to effectively handle difficult interaction with citizens in person and via telephone.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, and the public as necessitated by the work.
DESIRABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
High school graduate or GED equivalency with two years of experience in a position requiring extensive contact with the public in the areas of enforcement of Federal, State or local codes relating to housing, building, zoning, law enforcement, insurance investigation
OR
With two years of Journeyman-level experience in building construction and repair.
Certification by the ICC and/or a college degree preferred.
NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Possession and maintenance of a valid State of Florida driver's license.
Must provide a personal motor vehicle for performance of some assigned duties and maintain an automobile insurance policy that meets the minimum requirements of liability established by the State of Florida for property damage and personal injury coverage for "business use".
Date Revised: 8/04, 3/96
Date Issued: 4/77
City of St. Petersburg