Position: Code Enforcement Inspector

Opening Date: April 28, 2025 Closing Date: Until Filled

Salary: Up to $56,500, dependent on qualifications and experience

Department: Infrastructure, Planning & Growth Location: County-City Building

Description:

The Code Enforcement Inspector is responsible for enforcing violations of the Abandoned Vehicle, Public Nuisance, and Weed & Rank Vegetation Ordinances, as well as violations of the Zoning Ordinance for the unincorporated areas of St. Joseph County. Inspectors conduct initial inspections of trash and debris, tall grass/weeds, zoning issues, and abandoned vehicles and work to develop solutions for compliance. Inspectors work collaboratively with other County departments to resolve issues. Inspectors will have significant interaction with the public, including answering questions on complaint history and responding to request for information. The ability to interact with the public with a diplomatic and respectful demeanor is essential.

This position reports directly to the Area Plan Commission Director, Planning & Zoning Division, Department of Infrastructure, Planning & Growth

Essential Functions:

• Enforce county code enforcement ordinances
• Assist with zoning violations
• Perform site inspections of properties
• Analyze issues and propose solutions to chronic problems. Communicate concerns and critical issues to supervisor
• Complete required reports using Microsoft Word and Excel and keep accurate records and files
• Utilize project management software to enter and track complaints
• Regularly monitor e-mail and new inspection requests throughout the day
• Be accessible throughout the workday.
• Use safety equipment and wear uniform per departmental policy
• Educate County residents and stakeholders about code issues and violations
• Represent the Department professionally and interact with constituents courteously and knowledgeably
• Anticipate and respond to resident concerns based on property status, history and condition
• Testify at Code Enforcement Hearings and court when needed
• Occasionally lift trash or debris weighing up to 75 lbs.
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• High School diploma or equivalent. College degree in a major related to construction, building inspection, engineering, or environmental health and safety, or criminal justice preferred
• Three or more years of work experience preferred, especially in the building construction field and/or inspection work
• Working knowledge of County government desirable
• Ability to research and understand applicable ordinances, statutes, and codes
• Ability to problem solve and critically think
• Excellent, systematic, accurate data collection skills
• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Strong experience with standard office software including: Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and Excel; experience with GIS-based software preferred
• Ability to use and learn new technologies
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to diffuse contentious situations
• Must communicate critical issues to supervisor
• Ability to work in adverse weather conditions requiring a moderate degree of physical stamina
• Must possess a valid driver’s license

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and walk, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; use hands to fingers, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds. Specific vision abilities required in this job include vision and the ability to adjust focus.