Code Enforcement Officer The City of Rancho Palos Verdes is seeking a professional and community-oriented Code Enforcement Officer to help maintain and improve the quality, safety, and appearance of neighborhoods and commercial districts throughout the community. Under general supervision, the Code Enforcement Officer investigates complaints, enforces municipal codes and ordinances, and works collaboratively with residents, businesses, and property owners to achieve voluntary compliance. This position requires strong communication skills, sound judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret and apply local regulations fairly and consistently. The Community Development Department is committed to preserving the character and quality of life in Rancho Palos Verdes through responsible planning, safety enforcement, and exceptional customer service. The department oversees Building & Safety, Code Enforcement, Planning & Zoning, and View Restoration & Preservation, ensuring compliance with construction codes, zoning regulations, and municipal standards. This non-exempt position is represented by the Rancho Palos Verdes Employees Association. The Code Enforcement Officer works in the Code Development Division and requires a strong work ethic, interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to foster effective working relations with citizens and business owners to abide by all ordinances and codes passed by the governing body of the City. Investigate and address code violations related to zoning, building safety, public nuisances, and animal control. Educate property owners and residents on compliance, issue corrective notices, and follow up on violations. Work collaboratively with City departments, local agencies, and community members. Use case tracking software, conduct research, and prepare reports. The ideal candidate is an effective communicator, skilled problem-solver, and collaborative team player with experience in code compliance, inspections, and public safety. A background in municipal enforcement, zoning regulations, or animal control is a plus. This position combines office work and field inspections, requiring adaptability and excellent customer service skills. If you thrive in a collaborative, community-oriented environment, we encourage you to apply!
Essential Job Functions:
Investigate Code Violations: Receive, record, and investigate complaints related to building, zoning, housing, health and safety regulations, and animal control.
Conduct Inspections: Perform drive-by and on-site inspections of residential, and commercial areas to assess compliance.
Enforce Compliance: Issue notices of violation, citations, and corrective actions for non-compliance with municipal codes and ordinances.
Engage with the Public: Educate and communicate with property owners, residents, and businesses regarding city codes, ordinances, and compliance expectations.
Coordinate Abatement Procedures: Work with property owners, attorneys, and agencies to ensure proper abatement of violations, hazardous properties, and nuisance conditions.
Collaborate with City & Outside Agencies: Partner with planning, building, public works, law enforcement, and departments to address violations and community concerns.
Animal Control & Wildlife Management: Assist in developing and implementing policies and programs related to animal control and wildlife safety.
Policy Development & Recommendations: Contribute to updates and improvements in city code enforcement policies, procedures, and standards.
Record Keeping & Reporting: Maintain accurate case files, databases, and documentation; prepare reports, memos, and correspondence.
Public Outreach & Education: Participate in community relations efforts, educational programs, and enforcement awareness initiatives.
Legal Compliance & Testimony: Prepare cases for legal action and provide testimony at hearings when necessary.
Perform Other Duties as Assigned: Support related City projects and initiatives as needed.
Qualification Guidelines:
Education Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be: High school diploma supplemented by some college-level coursework or technical training in code compliance; and Two years of progressively responsible municipal code compliance experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge and abilities.
Licenses and Certifications:- Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver's License by time of appointment.
- Possession of or ability to obtain a California PC832 certificate.
- Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Association of Code Enforcement Officers (CACEO) Module I (Basic) Certification within one-year of employment.
- Knowledge of:
- Code violation investigation, compliance practices, and enforcement techniques.
- Citation issuance procedures, inspection warrants, and legal document preparation.
- Zoning codes, ordinances, and related regulations.
- Relevant Federal, State, and local laws, rules, and policies.
- Legal descriptions, boundary maps, and legal terminology in code compliance.
- Occupational hazards and safety protocols in code enforcement.
- Research, reporting methods, and technical documentation.
- Record-keeping, report writing, and professional correspondence.
- Safe driving practices and use of safety equipment.
- Modern office software and technology.
- Proper English usage, including grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
- Effective representation of the City when interacting with agencies, businesses, and the public.
- Customer service principles for working with residents, businesses, and contractors.
- Ability to:
- Clearly explain codes and regulations to property owners and the public.
- Interpret, apply, and ensure compliance with laws, policies, and safety standards.
- Identify and address concerns from stakeholders, including City officials, businesses, and community groups.
- Represent the City professionally in meetings with government agencies, organizations, and the public.
- Respond to complaints and service requests promptly and professionally.
- Prepare concise reports, correspondence, and documentation.
- Maintain accurate records of inspections and enforcement actions.
- Perform basic financial and statistical calculations.
- Prioritize tasks and meet deadlines effectively.
- Operate office equipment and software relevant to the role.
- Communicate effectively in person, by phone, and in writing.
- Exercise sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism.
- Build and maintain positive working relationships with colleagues, officials, and the public.
Physical Demands:
Must have the ability to work in a standard office setting using office equipment such as computers and phones. Must have the ability to inspect various City sites, including navigating uneven terrain, climbing ladders, stairs, and temporary construction access points. Must be able to operate a motor vehicle to attend meetings and visit inspection sites. Vision is required to read printed materials, computer screens, and conduct inspections. Must have the ability to communicate effectively in person, before groups, and over the phone. This position involves a mix of sedentary office work and field operations, with frequent standing and walking between work areas. Finger dexterity is needed to enter, retrieve, and manage data using a computer keyboard, calculator, and standard office equipment. The role occasionally requires bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, and pushing/pulling drawers to retrieve and file documents. Employees must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 40 pounds. Special NotesTest Accommodation Applicants with disabilities who require special testing arrangements must contact Human Resources. If you have a disability for which you require an accommodation, please contact us at (310) 544-5332 no later than five (5) business days before the test date. Disaster Service Worker Designation (DSW): All public employees in the State of California are considered Disaster Service Workers. As a Disaster Service Worker (DSW), you may be asked to carry on with your work as usual, or you may be asked to do something completely different than your everyday job. There are many different ways to assist during a disaster because each situation is unique. Before entering upon the duties of employment, all public employees take and subscribe to an oath by the City Clerk's office declaring them to be Disaster Service Workers in time of need. The oath reaffirms an employee's willingness to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of California.
