Compliance Officer (Local Government)
Environmental Compliance Officer
Parking Inspector
Swimming Pool & Spa Inspector

Building Inspector [own page]

Related Jobs or Working with these Jobs

Local government inspectors are responsible for enforcing various council by-laws, parking and traffic regulations and provisions contained in the Local Government Act and other legislation enforced by councils.

ANZSCO ID: 599599

Knowledge, skills and attributes

• enjoy working outdoors and willing to work in all types of weather
• able to deal politely and, at times, firmly with members of the public
• good communication and conflict resolution skills
• mature and confident
• patient, able to show initiative and be discrete
• able to cope with the physical demands of the job

Inspectors mainly work outdoors without direct supervision and may be required to wear a uniform. They may be required to work some evenings, weekends and public holidays, overtime or shifts.

Inspectors have a considerable amount of contact with the public.

Education and training/entrance requirements

You can work as a local government inspector without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications. You may like to consider a VOC qualification in local government, specialising in regulatory services or health and environment. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

You can also become a local government inspector through a traineeship in Local Government (Health and Environment/Regulatory Services).

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

To work as a local government inspector, you may need to undergo a National Police Check and medical assessment. You may also need a drivers licence for cars and/or motorcycles. Contact your local council for further information.

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Local Government Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.


Employment Opportunities

Employment opportunities include full-time, part-time and casual work. With experience and sometimes further training, inspectors may progress to the position of chief inspector.

Parking inspectors patrol streets and parking lots, enforcing local parking restrictions. They check vehicles for valid parking permits or tickets and record how long vehicles have been in free-parking areas. They issue fines when cars have exceeded maximum parking times or are parked illegally. In some cases they may also arrange to have illegally parked vehicles towed away. While on patrol, parking inspectors are able to keep an eye out for stolen or abandoned vehicles and report them to police. They may also note damaged or faulty signs, traffic lights and other roadside equipment, reporting faults to Main Roads, the local council or another appropriate authority.

Parking inspectors or Traffic Wardens are assigned areas to patrol usually within the Central Business District (CBD). They check that vehicles in this area are legally parked and have not gone over the maximum parking time.

They also check that vehicles are not parked in ways that are dangerous or unsafe for the public.

ANZSCO ID & Description: 561913: Patrols assigned areas and issues parking infringement notices to owners of vehicles that are illegally parked.

Alternative names: Parking Enforcement Officer, Parking Meter Reader, Parking Officer, Parking Warden, Traffic Warden

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A parking inspector needs:

• a reasonable level of fitness
• good communication, interpersonal skills and conflict resolution skills
• the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to politely deal with potentially hostile or aggressive members of the public
• to be honest, ethical and reliable
• enjoy working outdoors and willing to work in all types of weather
• maturity and confidence
• initiative, discretion and patience

Duties and Tasks

Parking inspectors may perform the following tasks:

• chalk the tyres of vehicles parked in areas with limited time zones, including meters, to measure the length of time they have been parked
• issue parking tickets to cars that are over the time limit or parked illegally
• write reports on booked vehicles
• keep records of issued notices and payment of penalties
• organise the impounding of abandoned vehicles
• present reports as evidence in court cases involving unpaid fines
• provide directions and guidance to the public.

Working conditions

Parking inspectors are employed by local councils and generally work in larger cities and towns, particularly in the metropolitan region. They work outdoors, in most weather conditions and usually patrol their assigned area on foot. The hours of work may vary, depending on the parking regulations of a particular area. Parking inspectors usually work during business hours during the week, with many also required to work on weekends and public holidays. Some parking inspectors may be required to work shifts, covering 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. They have a high level of contact with the public, and may have to deal with hostility and aggression from some people.

(Source: Good Universities Guide)

Tools and technologies

Parking inspectors generally work with small hand-held computers which are able to record how long a vehicle has been parked in the same space and print infringement notices. Some parking inspectors may mark the tyres of parked vehicles with chalk to monitor their movement and write infringements by hand, though this is becoming less common. They usually carry two-way radios and/or mobile phones to stay in touch with other inspectors in the area and a central office. Parking inspectors may need to drive between patrol areas. They are generally issued a uniform, including hats and wet-weather gear.


Education and training/entrance requirements

You can become a parking inspector without formal qualifications and get training on the job. However, entry into this occupation may be improved by obtaining a qualification in Local Government.

The Certificate III in Local Government (Regulatory Services) is offered at TAFE Colleges and other registered training organisations throughout Australia.

Individual local government authorities will have their own specific employment requirements. However, you may be required to pass a police check, have a medical assessment and/or hold a current drivers licence.

                                                                                                                                                               A Must Listen...

Park your preconceptions as two inspectors talk about the perks and pitfalls of the job.
Ever wondered the best excuse to get out of a parking ticket?
Hayden and Mo have heard pretty much all of them.
They both work as parking inspectors in Canberra and have seen their fair share of bad parking.
But they told Breakfast host Lish Fejer that there are quite a few bright spots in their day.
Duration: 4min 58sec
Broadcast: Thu 12 Aug 2021, 5:30am

Did You Know? •Australian Population: 25 million •Rates collected: $6.4 billion •Local road length: 683,893 kilometres •Number of employees: 145,000 •Local governing bodies: 562 •Value of infrastructure: $106.3 billion The first local government established in Australia was in Adelaide in 1840. Australia's largest council by population is Brisbane City Council, servicing a population of 898,500. Australia's largest council by area is East Pilbara in Western Australia. It covers an area of 378,333 square kilometres, has a population of 6,832 and 2,864 kilometres of roads. Australia has had four Prime Ministers who served on local government authorities. John Gorton (Kerang Shire Council) Ben Chifley (Abercrombie Shire Council) Earle Page (South Grafton Council) Arthur Fadden (Townsville City Council) (Source: ALGA)

 


A swimming pool and spa inspector carries out site inspections of swimming pools and spas to implement and enforce legislation and regulations. A pool safety inspector is responsible for inspecting pool barriers around the swimming pool. They must make sure that the pool barriers are compliant with the law. They also play a significant role in making the pools child-friendly and free of any safety violations. Once the pool inspection begins, the inspectors will look around and make sure the rest of the yard (excluding the pool) is safe while making sure all surrounding areas near the pool are up to “code.” The pool inspectors will also review not-so-apparent features such as roof gutters. This is strictly because they want to make sure rainwater doesn’t get displaced directly into the swimming pool. The pool inspector will also look at all the pool pumps, filters, tiling, lighting, etc. Many new pool owners feel shocked when they learn that pool inspections do not include water quality testing. They also do not test any visibly broken features.

ANZSCO ID: 599599
   
Knowledge, skills and attributes  

• Reliable
• Trustworthy
• Has integrity
• Good communication
• Fully licensed and qualified - A qualified pool safety inspector must hold an E1 certifier qualification and may also hold a builders license
• Ability to write concise and accurate reports

(Source: Pool Certify)

Duties and Tasks

• To ensure that the built environment complies with the current codes and regulations and provides safe structures to the community.
• To provide professional advice on all aspects relating to private swimming pool and spa enclosures and to undertake inspections throughout the Shire to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.
• Site inspections in the areas of swimming pool and spa enclosures and associated building construction are undertaken as determined appropriate by the Manager Building Services.
• Relevant inspection documents and reports are compiled and submitted in an appropriate and timely manner.
• Responsive and customer-focussed advice and information is provided to the public and other staff on matters pertaining to swimming pools in accordance with existing guidelines.
• Lodging certificates of pool and spa barrier non-compliance with the relevant council.
• Infringement notices are prepared and court is attended as required.
• Records of inspections, or related duties are maintained, and monthly and annual performance based statistics are provided.
• Other relevant duties are undertaken as directed by the Manager Building Services.

Working conditions

A Swimming Pool and Spa Inspector investigate the following:

• Pool safety is up to code
• Pool interior and pool lighting meets expectations
• Proper tiles & decking around the pool
• The yard beyond the pool is safe and follows all rules
• Saltwater corrosion (if it is a saltwater pool)
• The pool pumps and pool filter work efficiently without any errors
• The pool heater works well
• Your pool accessories are up to code
• The remote-control function operates smoothly

A Swimming Pool and Spa Inspector works a normal 38 hour week. Some of that time is inspecting in all sorts of weather and the rest is writing up reports in an office.

Education and training/entrance requirements
   
The successful completion of an approved course in swimming pool and spa barrier inspection from a Registered Training Organisation, and at least 6 months of practical experience. These rules are complex and Inspectors have to obtain Certification before they can inspect pools and spas.
  
The rules cover

• Gates and fencing - height, gaps, closest to boundary fence, foot holds, child-resistant locks
• Pool signage - resuscitation (CPR) techniques signs
• Ladders and diving boards
• Pool plant
• Ventilation
• Chemical management
• Floors and walkways - Closeness of BBQs, trees, rocks, shrubs, and deckchairs
• Storage
• First aid and emergency management

 

 



Growing concern about global climate change has made more people and companies aware of the carbon footprint their activities leave. Environmental compliance specialists help ensure those carbon  footprints conform to applicable laws regulating pollution and emissions. Develops, enforces and evaluates environmental health policies, programs and strategies to improve health outcomes, and oversees the implementation and monitoring of environmental health legislation. Most compliance officers work for government agencies but can be found in the private sector as well. Environmental health officers assess risk and develop, regulate, enforce and monitor laws and regulations governing public health for both the built and natural environment, in order to promote good human health and environmental practices.

Environmental health officers may specialise in the areas of air, food and water quality; disease vector control (mosquito control, for example); waste management; environmental protection; health education; and noise control.
They are also involved in consultation, evaluation, managerial and health promotion activities.

An Environmental Compliance Officer is responsible for making sure environmental laws for water, gas, energy, oil, etc. are implemented and carried though.

ANZSCO ID: 251311

Alternative names: Environmental Health Officer, Health Surveyor

Knowledge, skills and attributes 

• good communication skills
• good negotiation skills
• tactful and courteous
• able to be firm and impartial when making decisions
• resourceful
• able to take initiative
• good problem-solving skills
• able to work independently or as a part of a team

 

 
(Source: AgCareers)

Duties and Tasks

• Perform environmental compliance audits and implement follow-up corrective actions to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Implement environmental management systems and programs for company or clients
• Develop plans, permits, and procedures for air quality, hazardous waste, spill prevention, storm water, and wastewater
• Manage multiple projects within scope/budget/schedule expectations and ensure quality standard on project deliverables
• Prepare technical proposals and participate in business development
• Must be familiar with federal and local environmental regulations and understanding of environmental permit application processes
• develop, implement and review environmental health management plans and occupational health and safety plans
• prepare and implement plans and strategies for the safe, economic, and suitable disposal of commercial, industrial, medical and household wastes
• advise on and enforcing legislation, implementing prevention programs and strategies for communicable diseases, food safety, waste water treatment and disposal systems, recreation and domestic water quality, contaminated and hazardous substances, and minimising air, sea, water and noise pollution to improve health outcomes
• identify hazards, and assessing and controlling risks in the workplace
• develop, implement and monitor programs minimising workplace and environmental pollution involving chemical and physical hazards
• promote ergonomic principles within the workplace such as matching furniture, equipment and work activities to the needs of employees
• inspect and audit workplaces, processes, plant, and chemical and physical hazards for legislative compliance
• train employees in personal protective equipment and safe working procedures
• record and investigate injuries and equipment damage, and reporting safety performance
• coordinate the return of injured workers into the workplace
• investigate complaints about food safety and ensure shops, restaurants and food processors follow health regulations
• monitor and control water, air and noise pollution and collect water samples for analysis
• initiate and conduct environmental health impact or risk assessments
• design and conduct health education programmes or public information campaigns
• prepare policy documents and guidelines relating to environmental health matters
• manage immunisation campaigns
• manage programmes to control disease-causing pests such as mosquitoes
• investigate and manage public health incidents such as disease outbreaks
• manage programmes to control public health and environmental issues associated with major public events
• respond to disasters and emergency situations where public health is at risk
• assess building development applications and inspect houses and public buildings to ensure they comply with environmental or health and safety standards
• inspect and license premises that may present infectious disease risks to the community (such as tattoo parlours and acupuncturists, where skin penetration and body piercing occurs), and inspect hairdressing and beauty salons
• maintain records, prepare statistics, write reports and give evidence in court cases where health or environmental regulations have been violated

(Source: Your Career)

Environmental compliance specialists inspect industrial sites and investigate sources of pollution to protect local communities and ensure that companies comply with federal and state environmental laws, as well as local regulations on pollution.

Much of the work of environmental compliance officers involves investigating complaints of suspected violations of pollution control laws, such as illegal dumping and excessive emissions. Their work sometimes involves collecting water samples and other types of evidence for laboratory analysis. If their investigation uncovers a violation, they determine what corrective actions should be taken and issue written citations. They might participate in enforcement hearings as well. Compliance officers also educate businesses and members of the public on environmental laws by preparing reports and graphics that summarize environmental regulations.

In addition to investigating suspected violations of environmental health and safety laws and regulations, compliance specialists examine licenses and permits to ensure holders of these documents comply with licensing requirements. Compliance officers inspect waste disposal and sewage treatment facilities to ensure these facilities conform to health and safety regulations.

Work Environment

Most environmental compliance specialists work for government agencies at the federal, state and local levels. In the private sector, some companies employ internal environmental compliance specialists to ensure that applicable environmental rules are followed.

Typical employers: employed by research firms, food animal production companies, governmental organizations, schools/universities and environmental agencies.

Education and training/entrance requirements

Becoming an environmental compliance officer usually requires a bachelor’s degree. Appropriate fields of study include environmental science, biology or chemistry. Compliance specialists need strong knowledge of science, environmental law and public safety. To become an environmental health officer you usually have to study environmental health, environmental science, public health or environmental management at university. These areas of study may be undertaken within a science, health science, social science or natural science degree. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics are normally required.

A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study.

Additional Information

Graduates can become members of Environmental Health Australia, a national professional association for environmental health officers and other professionals working in environmental health. Student membership is available to those studying an accredited environmental health degree.

Employment Opportunities

The main employers are local government and councils.

Environmental health officers are also employed by the Australian Defence Force, state and territory health and environment departments and area health services, as well as major food corporations, international airlines and overseas aid organisations. There are growing opportunities elsewhere in the private sector.

A compliance officer (local government) performs site inspections, investigates and reports on new and existing land use and building activities, and resolves complaints. They liaise with solicitors, developers, property owners and occupiers to achieve compliance with local government legislation. Compliance officers need to be able to communicate effectively and have a broad skills and knowledge base.

 

ANZSCO ID: 599599

Knowledge, skills and attributes

• Tertiary Qualifications in building/development compliance, environmental health, similar discipline or demonstrated relevant knowledge and experience.

• Knowledge and understanding of local government regulatory building/development compliance, environmental and protection of the environment functions and services.

• Sound knowledge of the regulatory functions within the Local Government Act 1993, Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and other local government legislation.

• Ability to thoroughly research and assess regulatory matters, negotiate and develop solutions to achieve satisfactory outcomes.

• Ability to communicate effectively with people at all levels; to establish and maintain interpersonal relationships and; to work cooperatively in a team.

• Ability to exercise delegation of authority and to operate effectively with limited direct supervision.

• Demonstrated high quality communication and report writing skills.

• Hold a valid Class A/C motor vehicle licence at all times.

• Demonstrated computer literacy skills.

• Demonstrated commitment to quality customer service.

• Knowledge and commitment to EEO, WH&S and the principles for a culturally diverse society.

• Commitment to ethics, probity and transparency in decision making.

 

 

 

 

(Source: Planning and Environment)

Duties and Tasks

• Effectively and efficiently implement Council’s regulatory, building and development compliance and environmental functions and services.

• Investigate, assess and resolve customer action requests, enquiries, complaints, applications in a timely, customer focused and professional manner.

• Act as an authorised officer and exercise delegated authority, to issue notices, orders, directions and penalty infringements and undertake enforcement responsibilities under relevant legislation, in accordance with the instrument of delegation from the General Manager.

• Undertake research, investigation and enforcement of building and development compliance and other regulatory customer action requests, enquiries, complaints, incidents and other regulatory matters.

• Inspect premises or land for compliance with relevant legislation, criteria and standards and implement enforcement and compliance action to satisfy relevant legislation, criteria and standards

•  Investigate alleged unauthorised land use activities and non-compliance with development consents.

• Assess various types of applications and certificates and undertake inspection/assessment of premises to ascertain compliance with relevant consents, approvals, certificates, legislation and issue notices and orders
  to remedy deficiencies, in accordance with relevant delegation of authority.

• Negotiate, mediate and effectively resolve regulatory matters with parties to building, compliance and environmental disputes to achieve satisfactory outcomes.

• Respond to and resolve customer enquiries and internal and external action requests in a professional, customer focused and timely manner.

• Participate in Council’s ‘After Hours’ Service and undertake inspections outside of business hours, in relation to emergencies, urgent and specific matters and incidents, as required by the Manager.

• Preparation of investigation/compliance reports, statistical information and documentation for the Coordinator, Manager, Director and General Manager

• Preparation of reports and statements of evidence and represent Council in the Land and Environment Court and Local Court, where required.

• Undertake community safety and crime prevention activities as may be required.

• Demonstrate consideration and implementation of Council’s ICARE Values in all activities, tasks, services and projects undertaken.

• Contribute positively to the effective operation of the department and undertake any other duties as may be requested for the effective operation of the department.
  

Working conditions

Inspectors mainly work outdoors without direct supervision and may be required to wear a uniform. They may be required to work some evenings, weekends and public holidays, overtime or shifts. Inspectors have a considerable amount of contact with the public.

Education and training/entrance requirements
  
Tertiary Qualifications in building/development compliance, environmental health, similar discipline or demonstrated relevant knowledge and experience.

Related Jobs or Working with these Jobs

Animal Management/Control Officer (Dog Catcher)	Biosecurity Officer	Border Force Officer	Builder
Building Inspector	Fisheries Officer	Garbage Collector	Lawyer
Park Ranger	Primary Products Inspector	Public Servant	Workplace Health and Safety Officer

Materials sourced from
Jobs & Skills WA [Parking Inspector; ];
CareersOnline [Local Government Inspector; Environmental Health Officer; ]
CareerHQ [Environmental Health Officer; ]
Mundaring Council [Swimming Pool Inspector; ]
Randwick Council [Compliance Officer; ]
Victorian Building Authority [Swimming Pool Safety Work; ]
Good Universities Guide [Local Government Inspector; ]
ABS [Health Environment Officer; ]
Work Chron;
AgCareers
Your Career [Parking Inspector; Other Inspector and Regulatory Officer;]

 

 

 

 

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