Codes Officer

Job Description

Job Description

This is a public safety position, which requires full performance of duties, some tasks may be of a clerical nature and assignments are routine, but require detailed knowledge of departmental policies and procedures, along with detailed knowledge of the International Codes.

• Performs rental property inspections per Rental Inspection Ordinance. Inspections consist of nine (9) life safety items.
• Performs routine inspections as related to life, health, and safety within the City of Williamsport limits.
• Performs licensed inspections: Restaurants, rooming houses, and student residences.
• Enforces all of the International Codes and state-wide building code, with primary focus on the International Property Maintenance Code and the Codified Ordinances of the City of Williamsport.
• Conducts investigations and issues orders (violation notices) to abate all conditions relating to health and housing.
• Issues violation notices and citations as warranted for non-compliance to all applicable codes. Attends court hearings relating to properties in the City.
• • Carries out routine operating procedures and processes and completes all complaint reports. Maintains logs, files records, and prepares basic reports and monthly reports of tasks.
  • Answers general questions pertaining to building construction, procedures, regulations, building permits, zoning regulations, and other related information.
  • Works with office staff relating to specific information within the Codes Department.

  ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Attend Board of Health meetings (required); perform tasks or other related work for this board. Attend any other related meetings and/ or conferences as directed by the supervisor.
  • Within the first two (2) years of service, Code Enforcement Officer I is responsible for taking and passing the Property Maintenance and Housing Inspector exam for certification.
  • Attends any training courses recommended by immediate supervisor.

  KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Knowledge of English composition, spelling, punctuation and arithmetic.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others in situations that may involve stress.
  • Ability to communicate in a clear, concise, and professional manner.
  • Possess basic computer skills and ability to use standard computing applications.
  • Possess a solid understanding of Microsoft Office suite and other software programs.
  • The ideal candidate will pride themselves on providing great customer service and enjoy problem solving.

  EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • Thorough knowledge of – or ability to learn -- the state-wide and International Codes, and all Codified Ordinances of the City of Williamsport.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Must have and maintain a current Pennsylvania Driver License and must maintain a clean driving record.
  • Ability to effectively operate a personal computer and other general office equipment.

  ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Must be able to sit at a desk for prolonged periods of time using a PC work station.
  • Must be able to climb ladders and ascend and descend stairs.
  • Must be able to lift up to thirty (30) pounds.
  • Must be able to bend, stoop, squat, kneel, reach above shoulder level, and twist body periodically and frequently throughout the day.
  • Must possess sight/hearing ability so that the requirements of the position can be fully met.
  • Ability to utilize hands for repetitive actions.
  • Must be able to operate a vehicle to travel to various locations.
  • Must be able to verbally communicate to exchange information.
  • Able to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.
  • Reasonable accommodations will be made to achieve essential functions of this position.

  WORKING CONDITIONS

  • May be exposed to chemicals and/or other hazardous materials, dust, noise, machinery, moving objects, and other vehicles while performing field work.
  • May work on uneven or slippery surfaces.
  • May intermittently perform field work while exposed to various types of weather including extreme heat during summer months and cold temperatures during the winter months.
  • Physical work involved with this position includes those activities required for investigation and enforcement of code violations.

  ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I have read this job description (or had it read to me) and received a copy for my records. I fully understand the requirements set forth and accept the position of Codes Enforcement Officer for the City of Williamsport. I agree to abide by the requirements set forth and will perform all duties and responsibilities to the best of my ability. I further understand that my job may change on a temporary or regular basis according to the needs of the City without it being specifically included in this job description. If I have questions about job duties not specified in this job description that I am asked to perform, I should discuss them with my immediate supervisor or Human Resources. I have discussed any questions I may have about this job description prior to signing this form.