Zoning Officer

Haverford Township is seeking an experienced Zoning Officer to join our team.

This position is responsible for implementing and enforcing the Township Zoning Code, addressing all incoming communications regarding zoning matters and is a liaison for the Township’s Zoning Hearing Board. Primary functions include administering the intake, technical review, administrative processes and approval of zoning permits, Zoning Hearing Board applications, variance requests, and other zoning matters. 

Work Hours: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday (35 hours per week with the possibility of some flexibility, subject to the approval of the Department Head and Township Manager), plus mandatory attendance at evening meetings of the Zoning Hearing Board and occasional attendance at other evening meetings.

 Essential functions:

• Serve as staff liaison to the Haverford Township Zoning Hearing Board and other boards, commissions and committees, as assigned.
• Administer the intake, technical review, administrative processes and timely approval or rejection of Zoning Hearing Board applications and other zoning related permit applications.
• Provide technical and administrative support to the Zoning Hearing Board on zoning appeals, variance requests and other zoning matters.
• Review and evaluate building and zoning permit applications for compliance with the Township Zoning Code.
• Serve as the primary contact for inquiries and complaints relating to zoning related issues; investigate, research, interpret, explain, and provide guidance; engage other employees when inquiries extend into their areas of expertise.
• Perform inspections to ensure compliance with applicable Township ordinances; routinely tour the Township to detect structures and/or uses that are in violation of Township regulations.
• Prepare for court cases; attend court hearings and/or testify on behalf of the Township as the Zoning Officer, working with the Township Solicitor as appropriate.
• Collaborate with the Director of Planning and Zoning to draft and implement amendments to the Township Code.
• Work with the Permit and Licensing Coordinator to maintain current and accurate electronic and paper records pertaining to zoning and code matters.
• Work with the Permit and Licensing Coordinator to prepare routine reports to summarize zoning and code-related activity.
• Provide input on the Community Development section of the Township website.
• Ensure compliance with all legal requirements for public notice relating to public hearings and other zoning and development related matters.
• Perform field inspections and non-criminal investigations into zoning related matters.
• Develop personal goals and objectives for the approval of Director of Community Development.
• Remain current on legislative changes and case law that influence zoning and code administration through publications, training, and personal contact with other industry professionals.
• Interpret and administer programs and procedures in accordance with approved policies, Township ordinances, and applicable laws, rules, and regulations of authorities having jurisdiction.
• Provide assistance in the review and approval of vendor, supplier and consultant invoices for the department.

Qualifications:          

• A minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible, related experience, in Pennsylvania municipal government, is required.
• Working knowledge of zoning administration and enforcement in accordance with the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code.
• A thorough understanding of the principles and practices of zoning administration and enforcement is required.
• Ability to grasp basic legal principles of Land Use Law.
• Ability to perform administrative procedures, technical reviews, field inspections and non-criminal investigations.
• Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office programs including Excel, Outlook, and Word.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Able to demonstrate a high level of service delivery; prioritize citizen and community needs.
• Ability to research, understand and implement municipal policy.
• Ability to interpret maps, property surveys, and aerial photography.
• Ability to work as part of a team and independently with self-directed priorities.
• Considerable ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, associates, subordinates, employees and their representatives, professional groups, officials of other agencies, elected officials, attorneys and the general public.
• Ability to properly handle material of a highly confidential nature and exercise discretion.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Licenses, Registrations, or Certificates Required:

        Valid Driver’s License

Benefits:

• Defined contribution retirement plan
• 457(b)
• Summer hours with early out Fridays!!
• Paid life insurance
• Excellent paid time off and holidays
• Low-cost medical, dental, and vision plans
• Employee Assistance program