Zoning Investigator (Community Engagement Officer)

Job Description:

Zoning Investigator (Community Engagement Officer)

Description

Full-time position available with the City Planning Department - Inspections Division
Salary Range: $22.61-$34.48 per hour
Work Location: 414 E. 12th St.
Normal Work Days/Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Application Deadline Date: June 26, 2026


Responsibilities

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What you'll do
• Conduct daily zoning investigations to assess alleged zoning violations.
• Manage the lifecycle of zoning cases, including initial investigations and inspections, in-depth legal research of the Zoning and Development Code, issuing legally binding correspondence, and participating in weekly court proceedings.
• Track and monitor the weekly court docket to prepare zoning cases for proceedings.
• Develop a thorough understanding of relevant legal codes and processes.
• Create and maintain investigative reports based on evidence collected through site inspections and research; issue legal notices and summonses; educate offenders on available resolution options; prepare cases for prosecution; and testify in court on behalf of the City.
• Maintain considerable independent judgment, perform fieldwork, and utilize technology both in the field and office.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
What success looks like
• Cases are investigated thoroughly and resolved in a timely, legally sound manner
• Court cases are well-prepared, organized, and supported by strong documentation
• Violations are corrected through clear communication and education when possible
• Reports and records are accurate, complete, and audit-ready
• You build trust with the community while upholding City standards
What you get
• Stable public sector career with long-term growth opportunities
• Hands-on experience with legal processes, zoning codes, and enforcement
• Independent, field-based work balanced with office responsibilities
• Supportive team environment with cross-department collaboration
• Standard City benefits package, including health coverage, retirement plans, and paid time off
Why this role matters
Zoning enforcement protects the integrity, safety, and livability of the community. Your work ensures properties are used appropriately, disputes are handled fairly, and the City's development standards are consistently upheld. This role directly impacts neighborhood quality and public trust.
What you'll bring
• Ability to analyze complex code language and apply it in real-world situations
• Strong time management skills and ability to prioritize multiple cases
• Attention to detail with a focus on accuracy, efficiency, and understanding
• Excellent customer service and communication skills, especially in sensitive situations
• Comfort working independently in both field and office settings
• Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word


Qualifications

REQUIRES:

• High school graduation and 2 years experience in planning/zoning; nuisance housing; building construction or inspection; health, safety, codes and ordinances inspection or investigations; neighborhood/community assistance, code enforcement, social services, background investigations or criminal justice;
• OR an equivalent combination of qualifying education and experience
• Must possess a valid State-issued driver's license in accordance with City of KCMO.
• Must possess or be eligible to obtain required police commission from the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and post offer physical examination as prescribed by the City.
• Preference given for experience in investigations.

Other Information

Military veterans encouraged to apply

Why You'll Love Working with Us - Core Employee Benefits (Benefits offered to all permanent employees unless otherwise specified)

Comprehensive Health Coverage
Affordable medical, dental, and vision plans with multiple options and low employee contributions.

Generous Paid Time Off
Enjoy vacation, sick leave, and 13 paid holidays-with accruals that grow the longer you're with us.

Secure Retirement Planning
City-funded pension plan plus an optional 457 savings plan to help you build long-term financial security.

Support for Life's Big Moments
Paid parental and bereavement leave to help you navigate major life events with peace of mind.

Tuition Assistance
Get reimbursed for eligible education expenses-invest in your future while you work.

Income Protection
Short- and long-term disability coverage options to safeguard your earnings.

Life Insurance Provided
City-paid life insurance with the option to add more coverage for extra peace of mind.

Community Volunteer Leave
Take up to 8 hours annually to give back to causes you care about.

Want the Full Picture?
Click here for a complete benefits summary.

URGENT!!! CRITICAL RECRUITMENT INFORMATION

Applications and/or resumes are evaluated on the information received by the application deadline. Please ensure that your application or resume clearly demonstrates how you meet the minimum qualifications for the position for which you are applying, this includes providing all relevant educational dates and a detailed description of relevant work experience, including months/years of employment. Applications and/or resumes may not be considered if information is incomplete.

In order for a resume to be used in lieu of an application the resume must have been submitted online via the City's Applicant Tracking System.

Positions requiring a high school diploma/GED certificate must be obtained from a school/program accredited by the Department of Education and recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.

The minimum education requirement for positions that allow for experience equivalency for an accredited degree is a high school diploma. Unless otherwise specified, an accredited degree must be obtained from a college or university listed with the U.S. Department of Education and recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.
For positions with a salary grade of EX6 or higher that require an accredited degree, qualifying professional experience must be obtained AFTER the accredited degree is obtained.
Successful completion of a pre-employment criminal history/background check is required for all positions. Some positions require a post offer drug screen and/or physical.

If appointed, non-residents must obtain residency inside Kansas City, Missouri's city limits within nine months.

The City of KCMO is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The City is committed to providing a workplace environment for its employees and citizens free from discrimination based on race, color, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, religion, age, disability, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity. For more information, please see our EEO Policy

The City of KCMO is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please call 816-513-1908 or send an e-mail to [email protected] .

If claiming military veterans' preference points, you must attach a copy of your DD-214 or a DD-256 (for reservists). To claim veterans' points you must have served 180 days of regular active duty service and be discharged or released under honorable conditions during peacetimes or 90 days of active duty service, one (1) day during "wartime" and a last discharge or release under honorable conditions. (DOD) 38 U.S. Code • 4211).