ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Enforces zoning, housing, sanitation, and other quality of life related City ordinances by conducting self-initialized and citizen requested field inspections of properties, citing violations, and if necessary, preparing and presenting cases to the Special Magistrate for action. Under the guidance of the Code Enforcement Supervisor, interprets and enforces the City’s Code of Ordinances. Self-initiates code enforcement activities and responds to citizen complaints of possible code violations, inspects properties, locates property owners, and interacts personally with them to expediently resolve code concerns and/or violations detected. When warranted, prepares and issues notices of violation, notices to correct, and other official citations. Performs follow-up inspections to verify code violations have been corrected and to determine if additional enforcement action is required. Lacking property owner compliance within the time period specified, prepares and presents cases to the Special Magistrate and testifies in court, if necessary. Operates a City vehicle to perform work and uses a computer to maintain an accurate, detailed, and case-specific record of code enforcement activities performed and follow-up action required. Periodically participates in department sponsored, proactive community outreach initiatives and community-oriented meetings to heighten neighborhood code compliance, beautification, and development potential; responds to related questions and concerns posed by the public. Attends various seminars and workshops to remain current on code enforcement related laws and procedures. This is not intended to be an all-inclusive listing of essential job functions; the performance of other essential functions may be required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES: Knowledge of and the ability to read, interpret, and explain City ordinances, zoning codes, and land use. Must be, or have the ability to become, familiar with City streets. Ability to identify code and zoning violations and perform enforcement related field inspections. Ability to make or recommend means for resolving code problems. Ability to write clear and concise reports and make effective presentations. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. Ability to make independent decisions in accordance with departmental rules, regulations and policy. Skilled and proficient in operating a computer and performing accurate data entry. Skilled in organization, time-management and multi-tasking. Ability to prioritize work, meet deadlines, and work under pressure. Ability to speak clearly and distinctly. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, public and private agencies, officials, and members of the general public. Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to interact with others in a positive, courteous, and professional manner at all times.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE: Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma as prescribed by Florida Statutes. A minimum of one (1) year experience in code enforcement, construction, or other safety inspection related field preferred.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Must obtain the Florida Association of Code Enforcement (F.A.C.E.) certification Levels I, II and III within two (2) years of being hired. Must obtain the International Code Council (ICC) International Property Maintenance and Housing Inspector certification within three (3) years of being hired or promoted. In the event the required levels of certification are not obtained within the specified time periods, the person in the position will no longer be deemed qualified and employment termination could result. Must have a valid Florida Class E drivers’ license and a good driving record as determined by the City of Winter Haven. Absence of non-prescribed controlled substances in the applicant’s system as verified by a laboratory approved by the City of Winter Haven.

Note: A City of Winter Haven POLICE Application Must be Completed and Submitted to Human Resources.

PHYSICAL/ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Must have the physical ability, strength and flexibility to perform the job functions in the work environment. Reasonable accommodations will be made for otherwise qualified individuals with a disability.