Landscaping Inspections & Compliance Officer

at  City of Edmonton

HELP SHAPE EDMONTON’S FUTURE!

Are you passionate about landscaping and ensuring new development is in compliance with city bylaws? Do you enjoy working with diverse stakeholders and contributing to a vibrant community? If so, we invite you to apply for the Landscaping Inspections & Compliance Officer I position with the City of Edmonton.
The City of Edmonton is seeking a dedicated individual to fill the Landscaping Inspections & Compliance Officer I position within our Landscaping Securities and Inspections unit. This position will play a key role in ensuring new development complies with the City’s Zoning Bylaw and enhances Edmonton’s livability. The successful candidate will conduct inspections of new developments, manage complaint files, and provide guidance on zoning regulations to builders, property owners, and homeowners.

SKILLS REQUIRED FOR SUCCESS:

• Demonstrated experience conducting inspections in diverse conditions (including all weather and various property types), gathering evidence, identifying site deficiencies compared to technical documents (including vegetation/landscaping), and applying enforcement procedures (including warnings, orders, and court proceedings). This also includes experience with the 4E compliance model
• Proficient in interpreting technical drawings, development permits, real property reports, and regulatory documents (bylaws, Municipal Government Act). Possesses knowledge of planning terminology, practices, and procedures, as well as the ability to assess plant species, health, size, and quantity. Must be able to obtain Bylaw Enforcement Officer status
• Strong analytical thinking, critical judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to make decisions based on complex information. Skilled in handling complex inspections, compliance matters, and conflict resolution, even in confrontational situations
• Excellent communication skills (verbal, written, and public speaking), including report writing, presentations, and preparing court materials. Proven ability to work effectively with diverse groups of people, build positive relationships, and function well in a team environment. Strong customer service skills
• Highly organized with exceptional time management skills, able to prioritize a high volume of competing tasks and work independently with accuracy. Familiar with handling confidential information and proficient in relevant software applications (Google Suite, Microsoft Office, and potentially other enterprise systems)
• Proficiency with: Google Suite, Google Docs, Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets, Microsoft Powerpoint/Google Slides and familiarity with other enterprise systems including but not limited to POSSE, CORES, SPIN, SAP, SLIM, and GIS

Qualifications:

• Completion of a two (2) year diploma with arboricultural emphasis, planning, landscaping, architectural technology, horticulture or similar fields
• A minimum of two (2) years of previous experience in work directly related to planning, inspections, horticulture, landscape architecture, architectural technology, landscape construction, enforcement, or similar fields is required. Candidates with less than 2 years of experience may be considered at an opportunity concept leve

• Manage a highly-organized caseload of inspections and enforcement files
• Research, attend, and investigate newly developed properties by reviewing landscaping plans and development permit conditions to ensure that Zoning Bylaw landscaping requirements are met
• Drive to and from sites to attend routine inspections, and to attend sites with suspected bylaw contraventions - including residential and commercial properties and active construction sites
• Determine the species, health, size and amount of trees and shrubs present on inspection sites
• Use City-issued equipment such as personal protective equipment and a tablet to collect evidence while on site
• Collect, manage and preserve inspection information and compliance evidence in accordance with statutory and legal regulations, and internal inspection procedures
• Gather data and write landscaping reports in accordance with unit procedures
• Follow established safety precautions and responsibilities outlined in corporate OH&S policies and procedures
• Follow an escalated 4E compliance and enforcement model where bylaw infractions exist - providing education to stakeholders, issuing written or verbal warnings for non-compliance, or issuing enforcement orders, tickets, or violation notices
• Provide stakeholders with knowledgeable and timely responses to inquiries related to zoning bylaw contraventions
• Prepare case files, presentations, court briefs, appeal hearings and give evidence in court as required
• Other related duties as required

Qualifications:

• Completion of a two (2) year diploma with arboricultural emphasis, planning, landscaping, architectural technology, horticulture or similar fields
• A minimum of two (2) years of previous experience in work directly related to planning, inspections, horticulture, landscape architecture, architectural technology, landscape construction, enforcement, or similar fields is required. Candidates with less than 2 years of experience may be considered at an opportunity concept level