Code Compliance Specialist

CODE COMPLIANCE SPECIALIST POSITION SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Community Development Director, the Code Compliance Specialist performs administrative, technical, investigative, and field-based work in support of the City's code compliance, nuisance response, property maintenance and related compliance programs. The position responds to complaints, conducts field investigations, researches violations, coordinates with property owners and departments, and works toward practical and voluntary compliance with City codes, land use conditions, and related regulations. The position also supports interdepartmental coordination, case tracking, records management, and continuous improvement efforts related to compliance and enforcement activities. The role emphasizes professionalism, customer service, organization, communication, and practical problem-solving while working with the public, partner agencies, and City staff. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and the recruitment may close early to begin interviews. We encourage you to submit your application right away in order to be considered.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

The Community Development Department is responsible for economic development, land use planning, zoning administration, building inspection, historic preservation, code enforcement, and the Urban Renewal Districts. The Department provides staff support to: Planning Commission (APC), Historic Landmarks Commission (HLC), Design Review Commission (DRC), and the Astoria Development Commission (ADC). The Department administers the City Comprehensive Plan, the Development Code, the Zoning map and the City's Building Inspection Program.

SCHEDULE

The regular schedule for this full-time position is Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 5:00PM.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Receive, document, track, and respond to code compliance complaints and related inquiries. Conduct field investigations related to nuisance conditions, land use, signs, property maintenance, environmental codes, and related municipal code requirements. Prepare and distribute notices, warning letters, abatement directives, Voluntary Compliance Agreements (VCA), and related correspondence. Research permit history, land use approvals, ownership records, utility information, and related property documentation. Maintain accurate digital and physical case files, records, photographs, and enforcement documentation in accordance with applicable retention requirements. Coordinate with Planning, Building, Engineering, Fire, Police, Public Works, Parks, and partner agencies regarding compliance issues and enforcement actions. Support ongoing improvements to tracking systems, workflows, documentation practices, and operational procedures. Assist with permit expiration reviews, lodging license renewals, land use compliance checks, and related administrative functions. Participate in inspections, site visits, or related compliance activities as assigned by supervisory staff. Prepare reports, maintain logs and databases, and assist with records organization and public information requests. Participate in professional development and training related to code compliance, customer service, and regulatory practices." Perform related administrative and operational duties as assigned. Maintains punctual, regular and predictable attendance. Respectfully takes direction from supervisor. Works collaboratively in a team environment with a spirit of cooperation. Follows all safety rules and procedures established for various work areas. Performs general administrative duties, as needed. Follows policies, procedures, and guidelines as described in the City of Astoria Personnel Manual and other documentation related to this position.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLSABILITIES

Knowledge:

Municipal codes, zoning regulations, nuisance standards, and development review processes. Investigation, documentation, records management, and case tracking practices. Public records retention requirements and standard office procedures. Customer service principles and conflict resolution techniques. Modern office software, permitting systems, databases, and digital recordkeeping platforms.

SkillsAbilities:

Conduct investigations, document findings, and communicate compliance requirements clearly and professionally. Maintain organized case files, records, and tracking systems with attention to detail. Manage multiple assignments, prioritize tasks, and follow projects through completion. Work collaboratively with staff, agencies, property owners, and the public. Navigate sensitive or confrontational situations with professionalism, sound judgment, and customer service focus. Ability to organize, prioritize, and follow assignments through completion with attention to detail. Learn and adapt to evolving procedures, systems, and department needs.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities but may provide guidance to interns, temporary staff, or volunteers supporting compliance or inspection functions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Ability to perform essential job duties with or without reasonable accommodation and without posing a direct threat to safety or health of employee or others. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. High school diploma or equivalent. Associate degree in public administration, urban planning, construction, code enforcement, criminal justice, or a related field OR two (2) years of position-related experience. Ability to perform essential duties with or without reasonable accommodation and without posing a safety risk to self or others. Possession of a valid Oregon driver's license and a safe driving record. Ability to pass a background check including checks of Criminal, Social Security Trace, Sex Offender Registry and Motor Vehicle records; and

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Experience with municipal code compliance, permitting, inspections, or development review processes. Experience with records management, permitting software, GIS, or database systems. Coursework or training in planning, public administration, construction, criminal justice, or related fields. Certifications related to code compliance, inspections, or permitting are desirable.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work includes both office and field responsibilities. Fieldwork includes exposure to all weather conditions, uneven terrain, construction sites, private properties, and potentially hazardous conditions. The position requires regular contact with the public-property owners, contractors, business owners, renters, agencies, and City staff. Work may include interaction with individuals in potentially confrontational or enforcement-related situations. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; talk or hear; use hands or operate tools. The employee is occasionally required to sit, climb, stoop, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. This position is represented by a Collective Bargaining Agreement.