Zoning Officer – Borough of Northampton

ZONING OFFICER & ZONING- PLANNING-BUILDING CODE SECRETARY


DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
This is an administrative position that requires a basic knowledge of Borough zoning and planning operations. The work is performed under the general supervision and direction of the Borough Manager, but a worker in this class may make independent decisions in certain instances.

Send resume application by mail to 1401 Laubach Avenue, Northampton, PA 18067 or email to [email protected].  Applications are due by 4:00 pm October 2, 2024.  EOE.


STATEMENT OF DUTIES
The employee in this position will:

  • Be responsible for enforcing the Borough Zoning Ordinance.
  • Receive and review zoning and sign permit applications, and if approved, process necessary permits. If not approved, prepare and issue denial notices.
  • Prepare any monthly appeals to the Zoning Hearing Board, including setting the agenda, preparing any legal advertisements, and scheduling the court stenographer.
  • Maintain all subdivision and land development files.
  • Prepare any monthly reviews to be conducted by the Borough Planning Commission, including setting the agenda, and preparing legal advertisements.
  • Attend monthly Zoning Hearing Board meetings and Planning Commission meetings and
    record meeting minutes.
  • Assist the public with the application process.
  • Answer all incoming calls to the Zoning office.
  • Respond to all zoning inquiries by telephone and/or in writing.
  • Maintain all property file records, including applications and permits.
  • Perform inspections to determine compliance with the zoning ordinance.
  • Notify all persons violating the ordinance and issue legal enforcement notices, if necessary.
  • Update permit file information from County realty transfer data sheets in order to have current property owners listed in computer database.
  • Keep the zoning ordinance and map up to date.
  • Accept applications for and present facts at hearings before the zoning hearing board.
  • Receive and process for review all non-zoning permit applications.
  • Prepare monthly report to Borough Manager on all permits issued/fees
    generated/construction cost estimates and inspections conducted.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • General knowledge of all Borough operations.
  • Good knowledge of office terminology, procedures, and equipment, English and mathematics.
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where standardization exists. Ability to deal tactfully with the public and to exercise good judgment in decision making.
  • Good typing ability.
  • Good computer knowledge and skills.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
  • Basic knowledge of Borough Codes and Ordinances.
  • OTHER
  • The ideal candidate will have five (5+) or more years of progressive experience in Zoning.
  • The ideal candidate will have general knowledge of the Pennsylvania
    Municipalities Planning Code and Pennsylvania Building Code.
  • Perform other duties and accept other responsibilities that may be directed or
    specified by the ordinances, policies, and procedures of the Borough.
  • Perform other duties and tasks as directed by the Borough Manager and Borough Council.

MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Graduation from a standard High School or equivalent. Completion of zoning
administration course when the course is available and within a reasonable amount of time.
Ability to understand architectural plans, construction documents, blueprints, and site plans.
Business school training and/or a combination of experience and training which provides therequired knowledge, skills, and abilities.

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