Code Compliance Investigator III

The Department of Code Compliance (DCC) responds to over 8,000 complaints each year related to property maintenance, unpermitted construction, zoning, and other violations of County code. DCC seeks compliance with county/state codes and ordinances in achieving the mission of the agency: to promote, protect, and maintain a healthy and desirable living environment in Fairfax County. The work of the agency is further guided by an annual Equity Impact Plan, in conjunction with the county's One Fairfax Policy and commitment to consider equity when making policies or delivering programs and services. As certified by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (VDHCH) and/or appointed by the relevant Code Official to do so on their behalf, this position conducts research and field investigations. Interviews with residents/community and gathers evidence. Applies a variety of investigative techniques regarding alleged code violations - to include preparation of material for testimony in court and/or other adjudicative bodies (e.g. Board of Zoning Appeals; Local Board of building Code Appeals). Investigators issue formal Notices of Violation and will communicate with those found in violation to advise of the nature of the violation and provide information on methods to achieving compliance. Investigators are responsible for placarding unsafe premises when necessary. In order to provide educational and other information to support the activities of the agency, investigators must communicate with other stakeholders. This includes complainants, the general public, Board of Supervisor's staff, and outside governmental agencies. May train new employees and provide support to the team in the supervisor's absence. Duties are performed under the direction of a division supervisor.

• Thorough knowledge of State laws, County codes and ordinances governing land use, zoning, property maintenance, building, and related code provisions;
• Knowledge of investigative techniques and procedures including interviewing and fact finding, related to code and ordinance enforcement;
• Ability to read and interpret, regulations, legal documents, maps, and building plans; Ability to prepare clear, concise, and accurate reports;
• Ability to uses personal computer software and accesses centralized information systems to retrieve and enter data;
• Ability to communicate effectively with county residents, code violators, complainants and neighborhood groups;
• Ability to maintain appropriate and professional demeanor in all situations, including threatening and/or adverse circumstances;
• Ability to perform research, interpret regulations, legal precedents and court cases;
• Ability to serve as a witness; Ability to prepare comprehensive, accurate reports on observations made during an investigation;
• Ability to interact with individuals from various racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups;
• Ability to diffuse hostility, elicits information, and gain cooperation;
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; and to properly articulate the corrective action necessary to clear a violation;
• Ability to oversee multiple investigations;
• Ability to deal tactfully and effectively with the public, civic groups, homeowner associations, and to foster cooperative citizen and neighborhood involvement;
• Ability to coordinate resources with members of other County agencies such as the County Attorney's Office, Child Protective Services, Adult Protective Services, the Police Department, the Fire Department, the Health Department, the Department of Planning and Zoning, the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, Land Development Services, Tax Administration and the Board of Supervisors;
• Ability to deal tactfully with opposing attorneys, realtors, bank and/or lending institution representatives, judges, and counterparts in other jurisdictions; Ability to work odd schedules and/or weekends to investigate those types of complaints that require drastically modified work schedules;
• Ability to work outdoors in extreme weather;
• Ability to work effectively in unsanitary environments.

• Four years' minimum experience interpreting state and county codes and regulations related to zoning, noise, property maintenance, residential, and/or commercial building codes;
• Experience with Planning and Land Use System (PLUS);
• Ability to maintain effective relationships with the public and fellow employees;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
• Proficiency in Spanish or other language.

• Property Maintenance Certification by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (VDHCD);
• Zoning Certificate of completion in the Fairfax County Zoning Ordinance administered by the department;
• Building certification by VDHCD in each of the four disciplines (building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical) in residential construction;

• VDHCD certification in each of the four disciplines (building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical) in commercial construction.

• Fire Certification as ICC Fire Inspector I.