Zoning Administrator

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

Under administrative direction, plans, organizes and supervises the enforcement of County zoning ordinances and the activities of the department, and  Solid Waste ordinances and to ensure County goals and objectives are met and to ensure compliance with federal, state and local safety standards, codes and laws.

 ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES:

The following duties are normal for this job.  These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive.  Other duties may be required and assigned.

Reviews, issues or rejects applications and plans for zoning permits and building permits, conditional use permits, rezoning requests, variances and subdivisions.

Responds to informational inquiries from local officials, the general public, state agencies and legislative members to interpret zoning objectives and processes, environmental requirements, and public concerns regarding land uses.

Conducts on-site inspections to ensure compliance with federal, state and County codes and laws; enforces zoning ordinances.

Plans and organizes inspection and code enforcement program including determining departmental standard procedures and practices, setting up public hearings, determining priorities, interpreting codes, delegating duties, and reporting to the County Administrator.

Supervises the performance of other departmental staff including training and instructing employees, making work assignments, monitoring work and conducting performance evaluations including recommendations for hiring, reprimands and terminations.

Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.

Assume administrative authority for department functions.

Prepare reports, annual budget, and monitor expenditures within the Department.

Attend or assign duties to subordinates to schedule and attend Planning Commission or Board of Adjustment meetings.

Attend Board of Commissioners meetings as required. Prepare information for the Board of Commissioners meetings regarding regulations, goals, department budgets, policies and requests for variances from regulation or policies that require review and action.

Direct surveys, investigations, and studies of environmental issues and interpret the needs and progress to the County Board.  Confer with developers, outside consultants and the public in regard to recycling, household hazardous wastes, land use planning and zoning.

Direct the administration of the County (MN State) Building Code Ordinance utilizing a consulting Certified Building Inspector.

Performs other related duties as required.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

Requires minimum of a bachelor’s degree in planning/environmental/natural sciences, public administration or related field, from a four-year college or university and three years related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

MINIMUM SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION:

Knowledge of basic engineering principles as they relate to soils and structure.

Knowledge of public notice and public hearing procedures.

Ability to read and interpret maps indicating contours, drainage and topographic features.

Ability to read plans and blueprints. 

Knowledge of environmental practices relating to wetlands and other land use issues.

Knowledge of public relations and ability to handle delicate situations with township and county officials as well as the general public.

Ability to communicate effectively both in written and oral form.

Ability to work effectively with all types of people and personalities.

Knowledge of and ability to use computer hardware and software in the performance of tasks.

Ability to work independently without close supervision.

Ability to interpret Ordinances, State Statutes, and applicable laws.

Ability to treat the public in an ethical manner, showing neither favoritism nor discriminatory treatment. 

Ability to carry out the duties of the job in a proficient and professional manner. 

Ability to prioritize, to organize work on multiple projects, and to meet deadlines.

Ability to work in a team environment.

Valid drivers license.

INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS:

Requires a high degree of skill in developing, motivating, fostering collaborative relationships both inside and outside of the organization.  Interactions are frequent with representatives, elected officials or managers of other agency’s or organizations and the position has the authority and responsibility for representing the County and speaking on behalf of the County.

ENVIRONMENTAL ADAPTABILITY:

The majority of work is performed in an office setting.

 Some work performed could involve limited exposure to various noises, machinery, violence, extreme heat/cold, wetness, humidity, disease, dust, chemicals, and vibrations.

Ability to professionally handle confidential information.

 SUPERVISION OF OTHERS:

Responsible for directing departmental county staff in all aspects of Planning/Zoning and Solid Waste programs. 

BEHAVIOR STANDARD:

Maintain a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner so that you get along with clients, co-workers, and management.