Position Summary:
The Business License Compliance Officer is responsible for administering and enforcing the City's Business License program by ensuring businesses operating within the City comply with applicable municipal ordinances, state laws, and regulatory requirements. This position conducts compliance reviews, investigates unlicensed business activity, assists with the issuance and renewal of business licenses, and provides exceptional customer service to the business community.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
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Administer the City's Business License Program.
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Review and process new business license applications, renewals, amendments, and closures.
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Verify business information for compliance with City ordinances, zoning regulations, and applicable state laws.
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Conduct compliance reviews, field inspections, investigations, and audits to identify businesses operating without the required licenses.
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Research business ownership, tax classifications, locations, and operational activities to determine licensing requirements.
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Maintain accurate licensing records using the City's permitting and licensing software.
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Prepare notices of violation, compliance correspondence, reports, and supporting documentation.
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Work with business owners to achieve voluntary compliance through education and technical assistance.
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Coordinate with Planning and Zoning, Code Enforcement, Building Inspections, Fire Marshal, Finance, Public Safety, and the City Attorney regarding compliance matters.
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Assist with the administration of alcohol licenses and other regulatory permits as assigned.
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Respond to citizen inquiries and complaints regarding business licensing and compliance issues.
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Interpret City ordinances, policies, and Georgia laws relating to business licensing.
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Monitor licensing renewals and delinquent accounts and initiate appropriate follow-up actions.
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Prepare reports and maintain statistical data related to licensing activity and compliance efforts.
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Recommend improvements to licensing procedures to enhance efficiency and customer service.
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Perform other related duties as assigned.
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Adaptability in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
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Punctuality and regular attendance are essential.
Minimum Qualifications
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High School diploma/GED or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma
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Three (3) years of experience in business licensing, municipal finance, code compliance, revenue administration, regulatory compliance, or a closely related field.
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An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
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Knowledge of municipal business licensing practices and occupational tax regulations.
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Knowledge of applicable Georgia laws governing business licensing and regulatory compliance.
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Knowledge of investigative techniques and compliance procedures.
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Ability to interpret municipal ordinances, statutes, and administrative regulations.
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Ability to analyze information, identify compliance issues, and recommend appropriate actions.
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Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills.
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Strong written and verbal communication skills.
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Ability to establish effective working relationships with business owners, contractors, elected officials, employees, and the public.
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Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and municipal permitting, licensing, and financial management software.
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Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
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Adaptability in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
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Punctuality and regular attendance are essential.
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience working in municipal government.
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Experience administering occupational tax certificate programs.
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Experience with alcohol licensing or regulatory permitting.
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Experience conducting compliance investigations or audits.
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Experience using Tyler Technologies, OpenGov, MuniRevs, Avenu, or comparable municipal software.
Licenses and Certifications
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Valid Georgia driver's license or the ability to obtain one within thirty (30) days of employment.
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Ability to obtain any certifications required by the City.
Working Conditions:
Physical: Work is performed primarily in an office environment with periodic field inspections requiring walking, standing, climbing stairs, bending, and occasional lifting of up to 25 lbs. The position requires travel throughout the City and may include occasional evening meetings or inspections. Field assignments may expose the employee to varying weather conditions, construction sites, and active commercial establishments, requiring professionalism, sound judgment, and effective conflict resolution.
Vision: See in the normal visual range with or without correction; vision sufficient to read computer screens and printed documents, to operate equipment, and to safely operate a motor vehicle.
Hearing: Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction.
