Code Enforcement Officer

City of Grants•Grants, NM

just now

About The Position

POSITION SUMMARY: Under general supervision, the Code Enforcement Officer is responsible for administering and enforcing the City of Grants adopted Land Use Code and Property Maintenance Code, including Chapter 8 – Enforcement and Abatement, to ensure compliance with regulations governing zoning, land use, property conditions, nuisance abatement, and public health and safety. This position works to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the community through fair, consistent, and legally defesible enforcement actions. the Code Enforcement Officer emphasizes education, voluntary compliance, and progressive enforcement while maintaining the authority to initiate citations, abatements, cost recovery, and lien processes when compliance not achieved. The Code Enforcement Officer exercises independent judgement within established ordinances, policies, and procedures and serves as a public-facing representative of the City, working collaboratively with other departments to resolve complex code issues. Code Enforcement Authority: · Enforces the City of Grants Land Use Code, including Chapter 8 (Enforcement and Abatement): o § 8.1 – Authority to Enforce o § 8.2 – Notices of Violation o § 8.3 – Compliance Periods o § 8.4 – Abatement by the City o § 8.5 – Cost Recovery and Liens · Enforce the City’s adopted Property Maintenance Code, including exterior property maintenance standards, nuisance conditions, unsafe or dilapidated structures, sanitation issues, weeds, trash, and debris. Inspections and Investigations: · Conduct routine and complaint-based inspections of residential, commercial, industrial, and vacant properties. · Investigate reported violations and identify code deficiencies related to land use, zoning, property maintenance, and nuisance conditions. · Identify emergency or unsafe conditions requiring immediate action and coordinate response with appropriate departments. Progressive Enforcement: · Issue written Notices of Violation citing applicable code sections and corrective actions required. · Establish reasonable compliance deadlines consistent with code requirements. · Conduct follow-up inspections to verify compliance. · Issue citations or initiate administrative or municipal court actions when violations are not corrected. · Coordinate City-authorized abatements, including weed removal, debris cleanup, or correction of unsafe conditions. · Prepare documentation for cost recovery and lien placement when abatement costs are not reimbursed. Documentation and Case Management: · Maintain accurate, detailed enforcement records including inspection reports, photographs, notices, correspondence, timelines, and cost documentation. · Prepare enforcement case files suitable for administrative hearings, municipal court proceedings, or lien filings. · Track cases from initial inspections through final resolution using City systems, including GIS and case tracking platforms. Public Interaction and Education · Provide information and guidance to property owners, tenants, contractors, and the public regarding applicable codes, compliance requirements, and corrective measures. · Communicate enforcement actions professionally and consistently while maintaining neutrality and due process. Interdepartmental Coordination: · Coordinate enforcement activities with: o Police Department (safety, citations, court support) o Fire Department (fire hazards, unsafe structures, emergency conditions) o Public Works and Utilities (abatement work and cost tracking) o Legal and Finance Departments (hearings, court actions, liens) Additional Duties: · Assist with abatement actions and contractor coordination services when authorized. · Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information. · Perform related duties as assigned. Enforcement Philosophy: The Code Enforcement Officer shall apply City codes in a manner that: · Protects public health, safety, and welfare. · Encourages voluntary compliance whenever possible. · Ensures due process and consistent application or ordinances. Supports neighborhood preservation and community standards.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
Three (3) years of experience in Code Enforcement, inspections, compliance, municipal services, or related field preferred.
Knowledge of municipal codes, property maintenance standards, and regulatory compliance preferred.
Valid New Mexico driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Ability to communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
Ability to exercise independent judgement while following established policies and procedures.
Ability to maintain detailed records and documentation.
Ability to work independently and prioritize workload.
Basic computer profiency required.
Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening.

Nice To Haves

Code Enforcement certification or willingness to obtain.
Experience working with the public in regulatory or compliance roles.
Familiarity with municipal operations.

Responsibilities

Administering and enforcing the City of Grants adopted Land Use Code and Property Maintenance Code
Conduct routine and complaint-based inspections of residential, commercial, industrial, and vacant properties.
Issue written Notices of Violation citing applicable code sections and corrective actions required.
Coordinate City-authorized abatements, including weed removal, debris cleanup, or correction of unsafe conditions.
Maintain accurate, detailed enforcement records including inspection reports, photographs, notices, correspondence, timelines, and cost documentation.
Provide information and guidance to property owners, tenants, contractors, and the public regarding applicable codes, compliance requirements, and corrective measures.
Coordinate enforcement activities with Police Department, Fire Department, Public Works and Utilities, Legal and Finance Departments
Assist with abatement actions and contractor coordination services when authorized.
Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
Perform related duties as assigned.