Animal Control Officer

Animal Control Officer

Under the general supervision of the Senior Animal Control Officer, Animal Control Officers are responsible for the enforcement of city and state regulations pertaining to animals within the city limits. Investigates animal complaints; provides education and information to the public regarding animal-related issues such as protecting residents from stray or vicious animals, and related diseases. Patrolling for loose, stray, sick, or injured animals. Captures, impounds, transports, and removes deceased animals from roadways. Assists with the maintenance of the animal shelter, administers vaccinations, as well as the feeding and care of animals. Maintains records, prepares and submits reports to supervisor as required.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Investigate bite incidents, cruelty cases, welfare concerns, potential rabies exposures, and complaints related to animals in violation of the city ordinance and determine if other violations are present
• Impound and transport stray and other animals, both domestic and wildlife, including those who are sick, injured, or potentially dangerous
• Issues verbal warnings, written warnings, and/or citations for violations of the city ordinance.
• Prepares/receives correspondence, reports, or other work products
• Interact with the public by phone and in person, provides and receives written and verbal information to the public, responds to citizen service requests, and direct inquiries
• Handle complaints from citizens and work out resolutions as needed
• Monitor and maintain care of animals and the animal shelter
• Must be able to handle aggressive animals and wildlife
• Must be available for on call shifts on rotation including nights and weekends
• Assist with City outreach events such as low-cost vaccinations and pet adoption opportunities
• Develop and maintain constructive relationships with City officials, other departments, community agencies and groups, and the general public regarding animal control
• Operates city vehicles in the performance of duties and utilizes specialized equipment in the capture of animals such as catch poles, live animal traps, nets, and other standard animal control equipment
• Cleans, disinfects, and maintains animal control truck and supplies to ensure disease management protocols and proper functionality
• Regular, punctual attendance is an essential duty of the position
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

• General knowledge of animals
• Must be able to communicate orally and in writing
• Ability to work outside
• Ability to work sitting, standing, and moving about for periods of time
• Ability to keep records, maintain schedule, and handle paper work tasks
• Basic Computer skills required

Minimum Education, Certification, and Experience Requirements:

• High school diploma or G.E.D. required.
• Must possess a valid Texas Driver's License and have an acceptable driving record
• A minimum of six months of animal related work experience is preferred
• Must be certified by the Texas Department of Health and Human Services as a Basic Animal Control Officer; currently certified as a Euthanasia Technician or ability to obtain both certifications within twelve (12) months of employment.
• Certified Animal Control Officer preferred

Physical Requirements/Work Environment:

Must be physically fit with the ability to lift or carry up to 80 pounds without assistance. Ability to push, pull or carry up to 200 pounds with assistance. Must be able to work on your feet for a continuous eight-hour shift in both indoor and outdoor locations.