Project Compliance Analyst

Overview

The Department of Business & Neighborhood Services (DBNS) in Indianapolis is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of residents and animals throughout the city and Marion County. DBNS manages business licenses, permits for residential and commercial projects, and enforces local ordinances. Additionally, it oversees animal shelter operations. The department fosters a collaborative and compliant workspace to efficiently serve its constituents.

Job Summary

This role focuses on reviewing infrastructure plans and issuing permits to ensure they comply with relevant federal, state, and local laws, codes, and engineering standards. Responsibilities include permitting processes, coordination across departments, violation resolution, and maintaining accurate documentation. The position requires independent judgment and initiative, utilizing software tools such as ArcView, ArcInfo, and Pictometry for geographic data management.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess and issue permits for commercial, industrial, and residential infrastructure projects encompassing sanitary systems, stormwater, driveways, transportation, floodplain development, and right-of-way issues, ensuring full compliance with all regulations.
• Interpret codes, ordinances, and procedures addressing questions and resolving conflicts.
• Maintain up-to-date records related to issued permits.
• Continuously work to enhance operational efficiency, reduce processing times, improve workflows, and provide excellent customer service.
• Investigate and revoke permits issued erroneously or based on incorrect information.
• Serve as a legal witness or provide testimony regarding permit matters when necessary.
• Offer guidance to customers on permit applications, code interpretation, and procedures.
• Assist in training new Project Compliance Analysts.
• Respond to public inquiries via digital, telephone, and written communication channels concerning department policies and processes.
• Manage submissions and approvals related to development within designated Wellfield districts.
• Collaborate with inspections, planning, information services, township authorities, and other departments on permit issues and enforcement.
• Investigate permit-related complaints, facilitating timely resolutions.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures for permit activities.
• Participate in ongoing training to enhance job-related knowledge and skills.
• Create reports to support department functions.
• Oversee contract management and coordinate with neighboring counties and federal/state agencies.
• Attend meetings on complex economic development projects and planning gatherings to inform developers about standards and requirements.
• Initiate enforcement actions as required.
• Support technical improvements to web applications and geographic information systems related to permitting.
• Review infrastructure development plans, legal documents, and recorded plats for compliance.
• Provide ordinance analysis with recommendations for amendments.
• Contribute to the Accela Review Team for system updates and improvements.
• Implement policies to improve inter-agency coordination and process efficiency.
• Advise staff and customers on engineering aspects, including drainage, floodplain development, right of way, sanitary sewer, and street construction.
• Collect outstanding fees related to infrastructure reviews.
• Review and make recommendations regarding encroachment petitions involving regulated drains for Board of Public Works approval.
• Provide accurate information related to floodway/floodplain data affecting federal flood insurance.
• Oversee public and private infrastructure improvement coordination and manage related records and inspections.
• Engage in public speaking as required.
• Manage the single-family inspection and infrastructure process.
• Participate in the selection and oversight of consultant reviewers and inspectors.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field; related professional experience may substitute one year of education per year of experience.
• Ability to quickly acquire knowledge of applicable building codes, ordinances, and procedures.
• Capable of prioritizing multiple tasks and handling a heavy workload.
• Skilled in reviewing plans and specifications to determine permit needs.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints and technical documents.
• Strong understanding of ordinances, codes, and procedural regulations.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, especially for technical or complex topics with diverse stakeholders.
• Computer literacy and ability to learn various related software applications.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Must obtain certification in appropriate disciplines as directed by the Code Enforcement Director to maintain employment.

Working Conditions

Work is primarily conducted in a standard office setting. Occasionally, field visits to construction sites may be required, exposing the incumbent to varying weather, noise, dirt, and machinery.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The City of Indianapolis and Marion County are committed to equal employment opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. Diversity is valued among staff and the community served.