ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER I

Animal Control Officer I

Responsible field work in the enforcement of County animal control ordinance and state laws relating to animals according to Chapter 828 of the Florida Statues. To ensure the public is protected from diseased, problem and vicious stray animals and that the animals are humanely treated after being impounded. Position requires shift rotations, call-in after hours, weekends, holidays, working during State of Emergencies. Position requires exposure to heat and cold on daily basis.

Patrols the County and may patrol the City of Fernandina Beach, Town of Hilliard, and Callahan. Picks up and impounds stray and/or animals at large. Educates the general public regarding care and treatment of animals. Removes animals from inhumane conditions and delivers animals to the animal facility for treatment and care. Sets humane live traps, ensnaring, and handling of stray and/or dangerous animals. Investigates complaints, determines if there is a violation and takes appropriate actions to comply with the Nassau County Animal Control Ordinances and Florida Statutes. Issues warnings and citations for violation of state and county ordinances. Investigates reports of animal bites, animal cruelty and neglect. Apprehends, impounds, euthanizes and disposes of diseased, unhealthy, problem and vicious animals. Properly reports animals for submission to laboratory in accordance with County and State ordinances. Works closely with the Sheriff's Office, Health Department, other agencies and veterinarians. Interacts with the public fairly and tactfully, especially during emotional or stressful situations. Picks up trapped animals. Testifies in court proceedings as a witness or plaintiff on behalf of the County. Collects evidence, including photographs. Conducts preliminary investigations and files reports on animal bites, animal cruelty, and neglect. Maintains records and prepares moderate to complex written reports on animals impounded, adopted, redeemed, relinquished and destroyed. Responds to the emergency operation center when activated as directed. Provides care and maintenance of assigned vehicle, equipment and facilities. Assists with cleaning and maintaining kennels, when needed. Feeds and cares for sheltered animals including confined animals, when needed. Answers phones, when needed. Operates radio equipment. Attends and remains at work regularly and adheres to policies and procedures regarding absenteeism and tardiness. Provides adequate notice to higher management with respect to vacation time and leave requests. Performs related duties as required, including working in other functional areas to equalize peak work periods or otherwise to balance the workload.

Requires a high school diploma or general equivalency diploma supplemented by one (1) year of experience in the area of animal control and/or public health or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must possess and maintain a Florida Animal Control Officer Certification and Euthanasia Certification within six (6) months of hire. Must possess a valid State Drivers License. Employee must reside or move within forty-five (45) minutes of the Animal Services Facility within one-hundred-twenty (120) days of hire.

Knowledge of the methods, procedures and policies of Nassau County as they pertain to the performance duties of the Animal Control Officer I. Knowledge of the functions and interrelationships of County and other Governmental agencies. Knowledge of the laws, ordinances, standards and regulations pertaining to the specific duties and responsibilities of the position. Ability to work alone. Through knowledge of the terminology and various professional language used within the department. Ability to maintain effective relationships with personnel of other departments, professionals, and members of the public. Ability to plan and develop daily, short-term and long-term goals related to County purposes. Ability to take the initiative to complete the duties of the position without the need of direct supervision. Ability to plan, organize and prioritize daily assignments and work activities. Ability to learn and utilize new skills and information to improve job performance and efficiency. Knowledge of proper English usage, punctuation, spelling and grammar. Ability to communicate effectively. Ability to make sound, educated decisions. Ability to read and interpret complex materials pertaining to the responsibilities of the job. Ability to assemble and analyze information and make written reports and records in a concise, clear and effective manner. Ability to react calmly and quickly in emergency situations. Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the job.

Stooping, Kneeling, Sitting, Bending, Crouching, Reaching, Standing, Walking, Lifting and carrying up to 75 lbs., Pushing and pulling, Grasping, Talking, Running fast for a minimum distance of fifty (50) yards. (Reasonable accommodations will be made for otherwise qualified individuals with a disability)

Work is performed in various locations, both indoors and outdoors. Exposure to heat and cold, wetness, humidity, machinery, hazards, electrical currents, smoke/dust, odors, dirt/pollen, dangerous animals, traffic hazards, and noise extremes.

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applications will continue to be received until the listed closing date or the position is filled, whichever is earliest. Submission of an application does not guarantee the applicant an interview. Applicants will be subject to a criminal background check.

Nassau County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug Free Workplace. Nassau County values the service veterans and their family members have given to our country and that the County supports the hiring of returning service members, military spouses, and their family members as such this position is eligible for Veterans' Preference in accordance with applicable laws.