The City is seeking a Zoning and Code Enforcement Intern to help maintain safe and attractive neighborhoods. In this role, you will conduct field inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial properties to ensure compliance with zoning and property ordinances, document findings with photos and reports, and assist with community outreach. You’ll also respond to public inquiries, support special projects, and gain hands-on experience in urban planning and code enforcement. This internship offers an opportunity to work closely with experienced professionals, contribute to real-world projects, and build valuable skills for your career. Apply today to make a meaningful impact in the community!
- Perform daily drive-by and field inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial properties to determine compliance with zoning and land development requirements; property maintenance; and to assure compliance with applicable codes, ordinances, regulations and statutes.
- Research and gather background information regarding enforcement and other related activities involving properties.
- Prepare for inspections, schedule appointments where appropriate, and coordinate inspections with department staff.
- Document, record, and photograph properties during inspections to capture accurate information and evidence.
- Accurately enter data and maintain information in the City's computerized database systems.
- Tabulate results, analyze results, prints reports and negotiate reasonable extensions on non-complying issues and/or follow up.
- Prepare and send out notices of violations using form letters and/or general correspondence in conjunction with the City's computerized database and established department procedures and timetables.
- Perform general customer service functions and serves as a resource to provide information on City regulations to property owners, residents, business, the general public and other City departments and divisions.
- Respond to requests and inquiries from the public (walk-in customers, through e-mail or over the phone).
- Investigate and respond to complaints as needed and report information and concerns back to Community Development staff or supervisors.
- Assist department staff in coordinating abatements for unresolved cases.
- Researches, writes, and prepares information for reports and a variety of promotional materials such as the City newsletter, website, brochures, etc.
- Prepare and make public presentations as needed, which may include City Council presentations, community events, cable television shows, and on-camera interviews.
- Attends and contributes to regular staff meetings.
- Safely operates assigned city vehicles and computer equipment.
- Work effectively with the general public, staff members and outside agencies.
- Assist Community Development staff with special projects, which may include land use research and reports, as well as grant applications and management.
- Provide department counter and phone backup during breaks and lunches and other duties as assigned.
- Assist in organizing and scanning department records.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: - Completed at least two years of secondary education or certificate education in urban planning, public administration, community development, housing inspections, criminal justice or a related field, in good academic standing.
- Must possess a valid Minnesota driver’s license and a good driving history.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Proficient at operating personal computer and Microsoft Office Suite, including Access, Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
- Final candidate must satisfactorily complete a thorough criminal background and reference check process.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Senior in urban studies, community development, public administration, housing inspections, law enforcement, or related field.
- Experience working with mobile devices such as an iPad, smart phone, or online mapping system.
- Experience in customer service, particularly dealing with difficult customers
- Knowledge of the procedures and objectives of City Code, zoning, local ordinances, laws, rules and regulations related to zoning enforcement, sign regulations and other development related to land use concerns.
- Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing.
- Ability to read and interpret data, information, documents; analyze and solve problems; use math and mathematical reasoning.
- Ability to read and interpret aerial photographs and maps.
- Ability to input, retrieve, and access information on a computer as well as assigned mobile devices.
- Ability to be organized, prioritizes work assignments, and complies with multiple deadlines.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and deal tactfully with internal and external customers, co-workers, and partnering agencies, etc.
EEO/ADAAA
The City of Fridley will not discriminate against or harass any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, age, or sexual orientation
