Legal Definitions - administrative officer

An administrative officer is an individual who holds a position of authority within a governmental agency, a public institution, or sometimes a private entity, and is tasked with specific responsibilities related to the organization's operations, policy implementation, or regulatory enforcement. These officers typically manage resources, make decisions within their delegated powers, and oversee the day-to-day functions necessary to achieve the organization's objectives.

Here are some examples illustrating the role of an administrative officer:

• Imagine a Zoning Administrator working for a municipal government. This officer is responsible for reviewing construction plans and development proposals to ensure they comply with the city's zoning ordinances and land-use regulations. They have the authority to approve or deny permits, issue warnings for violations, and make recommendations on zoning variances to a planning commission.

  This individual is an administrative officer because they hold a position of authority within a government agency (the city's planning department), implement specific policies (zoning laws), and make decisions (approving permits, issuing warnings) as part of their official duties to manage urban development.

• Consider the Director of Licensing for a state's professional regulatory board, such as the Board of Nursing. This officer oversees the application process for new nursing licenses, manages license renewals, investigates complaints against licensed professionals, and ensures that all licensees meet the state's educational and ethical standards. They might also recommend disciplinary actions to the board.

  This person functions as an administrative officer by holding a key role within a public regulatory body, managing complex operational processes (licensing), enforcing state regulations, and making decisions that impact the professional practice of individuals within the state.

• Think about a Contracting Officer for a federal agency, like the Department of Defense. This officer is authorized to negotiate, award, and administer contracts between the government and private companies for goods and services. They ensure that all contracts adhere to federal procurement laws and regulations, manage the bidding process, and oversee contract performance.

  This individual is an administrative officer because they exercise significant authority on behalf of a government agency, manage substantial financial resources, implement complex federal policies (procurement regulations), and make critical decisions regarding government expenditures and partnerships.