The purpose of this job is to plan, direct and supervise all business license and hospitality tax programs and interpret and enforce the Business License Ordinance; to ensure compliance among businesses regarding the Zoning Ordinance; to handle complaints on businesses within the County; and to prepare and maintain required documentation on businesses and their licenses. and to perform related professional, administrative and supervisory work as required. The class researches and formulates short-range goals for the organization, reviews policy and position papers. This position works under administrative supervision, developing and implementing programs within organizational policies and reports major activities to executive level.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Plans, organizes and directs all business license programs and enforcement including hospitality tax. Interprets and enforces ordinances governing the issuance of business licenses, and contractor licenses; assist the public with general information and completing required licensing forms.
• Process business license applications, determining which inspections are necessary for approval of licensing; communicates with the Fire, Zoning and other applicable departmental personnel when required for approval of business licenses.
• Maintain information sheets and other documentation for distribution to the public concerning business licenses.
• Conducts field audits and license inspections of businesses operating within the County; audits businesses' financial records to determine validity of gross receipts reported.
• Receives and investigates complaints regarding businesses operating without Business Licenses. Collects, receives and processes payments for license fees; updates payments in the permitting system.
• Ensures the department's compliance with applicable state and local laws and regulations.
• Supervises assigned staff. Supervisory duties include instructing; assigning, reviewing and planning work of others; maintaining standards; coordinating activities; selecting new employees; acting on employee problems; recommending and approving employee discipline; and recommending discharge as appropriate.
• Reviews the work of subordinates for completeness and accuracy; evaluates and makes recommendations as appropriate; and offers advice and assistance as needed.
• Provides for adequate staff training and development opportunities.
• Develops and administers the department budget; ensures effective and efficient use of budgeted funds, personnel, materials, facilities and time.
• Maintains time records for time sheets; reports timekeeping information for payroll purposes.
• Assists in the development and implementation of an annual department work plan based on County goals and values, growth and development issues, and state and federal laws.
• Provides professional expertise and assistance with the more complicated or controversial work assignments and issues.
• Ensures the proper maintenance of vehicles and equipment assigned to the department.
• Coordinates department activities and functions with those of other County departments, municipalities and outside agencies as appropriate.
• Represents the department and County at various local, regional conferences and meetings; serves as liaison to other counties, municipalities, state agencies, various boards and commissions, other professionals and the general public.
• Performs other related job duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's Degree in Business or Public Administration or related discipline.
• Four years of closely related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Special Qualifications:

Must possess a valid state driver's license. Must possess or be able to obtain Class III Basic Law Enforcement Certification through the SCCJA within one year of hire date or transfer into position. Must possess or be able to obtain Accreditation in Business Licensing through the MASC within 2 years of hire or transfer into position. Unavoidable Hazards (Work Environment): Work is performed regularly making decisions that could lead to major community or organizational consequences upon failure to make the appropriate decision at the time. Dorchester County has the right to revise this job description at any time. This description does not represent in any way a contract of employment. Position Type and Expected Hours of Work This is a full-time position; typical work hours and days are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Some flexibility in hours is allowed, but employees must be available during the "core" work hours of 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. and must work 40 hours each week to maintain full-time status. Employees must be available to work evenings, weekends and holidays during emergencies or as requested. E.O.E. Dorchester County does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability or military service in employment or the provision of services.