Animal Control Officer

Position Description

If you're looking to be a part of a collaborative environment where your skills can make an impact, explore our current opportunities in creating a better future for public health.

About Harris County Public Health:

Harris County Public Health (HCPH) includes a network of more than 1,100 public health professionals working together to improve health outcomes for the third most populous county in the United States. HCPH provides a multitude of services such as medical and dental services, community programming, and health education for the approximately 2.3 million people in unincorporated Harris County. Through its core values of innovation, engagement, and health equity, HCPH strives to bring meaningful solutions to public health issues while keeping Harris County healthy and vibrant.

Our Values:

HCPH embraces a foundation of progressive work anchored by the department's cornerstone values guiding our work to improve the community's health and well-being.

• Transparency -We share information openly and honestly so that staff, partners, and the community understand our actions and the reasons behind them.
• Integrity -Our actions reflect strong ethical principles, ensuring we remain trustworthy, accountable, and consistent with our mission.
• Respect - We foster a supportive environment by valuing diverse perspectives, listening intentionally, and treating people with dignity in every interaction.
• Impact - We focus our efforts on activities that improve health, reduce disparities, and create meaningful, measurable outcomes for the communities we serve.
• Collaboration - We actively partner across teams, disciplines, organizations, and communities to align our efforts toward common goals.

Position Overview:

Under general supervision, the Animal Control Officer will enforce animal laws, investigate animal incidents, maintain equipment, manage animal records, and conduct inspections. Individuals in this role will be responsible for representing the County in court and engaging in public education and community outreach related to animal welfare.

The Animal Control Officer is expected to know ethical standards related to documentation, time management, and maintaining honesty and trustworthiness in the workplace.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Public Interaction & Law Enforcement: Responds to citizen requests for service, as outlined in the Animal Control Officer Training Manual, and enforces local animal laws and regulations. Completes special assignments as needed i.e. assisting law enforcement officers with evictions and arrests.
• Animal Incident Investigations: Investigates animal bite incidents, guides both the animal owner and the victim regarding necessary procedures and ensures proper documentation of the case.
• Equipment & Vehicle Maintenance: Operates County vehicles and equipment, ensuring daily maintenance, cleaning, and disinfecting are completed to ensure proper function and sanitation.
• Animal Record Keeping: Inputs and maintains accurate records of impounded animals, including animal details and photographs, ensuring proper linking for the County website.
• Dangerous Dog Facility Inspections: Conducts inspections of Dangerous Dog facilities to ensure compliance with Harris County regulations and standards for safety and animal care.
• Court Appearances & Professional Representation: Attends court hearings as needed, presenting required records and documentation, and maintains a professional image and demeanor at all times.
• Public Education & Outreach: Teaches scheduled animal safety and bite prevention programs to the public, promoting awareness and education.
• Community Events & Mobile Services: Participates in community events such as vaccination clinics, health fairs, and mobile adoptions, as assigned, to promote animal welfare and services.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer