Animal Care Technician

Animal Control Officer

Under general supervision, is responsible for providing the control, health, safety, and the humane euthanasia of animals. Assists Animal Control officers and other staff as requested. Monitors and observes animals for signs of aggression, illness and provides customer support as needed.

Essential Functions and Other Important Duties

DUTIES

• Provide a safe and sanitary environment for the temporary housing of animals by cleaning, sanitizing and maintaining animal cages, kennels, pens and runs and ensure all are in good working condition and safe for habitation.
• Provide food, water and proper care for all shelter animals by adhering to schedules and protocols within departmental policy.
• Provide excellent customer service to citizens, volunteers, and internal customers in person or over the phone.
• Communicate with co-workers, Veterinary Technicians, Animal Services Officers, Animal Services Supervisor, and Animal Services Manager when there is an animal medical concern.
• Perform humane euthanasia of animals and document required records regarding animals and drugs, properly disposing of dead animals and properly safeguarding euthanasia drugs and supplies.
• Provide general care and feeding of animals; assist with administering medication and vaccinations to animals; and exercise animals in designated areas.
• Evaluate temperament, health, and general adoptability of animals to ensure a safe and lasting adoption.
• Create and maintain animal profile information in shelter software; record and complete screening of animals for current disposition and update animal profiles.

SUPERVISORY/BUDGET RESPONSIBILITIES

• None.

OTHER DUTIES

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Job Requirements

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS

• High School diploma or equivalent; and,
• Must have or obtain a valid Euthanasia certification from within six (6) months of employment;

OR

• Any combination of related education and experience that will result in a candidate successfully performing the essential functions of the job.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Knowledge of applicable Federal, State, and Local Government laws, ordinances, and regulations.
• Skill in basic problem solving; identifying problems and reviewing related information to develop, evaluate options, and implement solutions.
• Skill at the entry level, working with applicable Microsoft Office 365 products, and other software systems to complete work.
• Skill in providing exceptional service to internal and external customers.
• Skill in interpersonal relationships, including using tact, patience, and courtesy.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both in oral and written forms, for the needs of the audience.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective interpersonal relationships.
• Ability to handle records and complex situations of a confidential nature.
• Ability to handle difficult and stressful situations with professional composure and confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently and/or with team environment while handling multiple tasks and changing priorities with attention to detail.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Must pass a drug test, criminal history background check, employment history verification, and social security number verification check.
• Must possess or obtain and maintain a valid Euthanasia certification from within six (6) months of employment.
• Must pass a physical examination.

Environmental Factors and Conditions/Physical Requirements

SAFETY

• Ensure equipment is in safe operating condition; perform preventive maintenance on tools and equipment, as appropriate and/or notify leadership immediately of needed repairs.
• Follow established safety procedures and techniques to perform job duties, including lifting and climbing; operate tools and equipment according to established safety procedures.
• Promptly report unsafe conditions in the work area and/or any conditions that are not immediately correctable to leadership.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Safety Sensitive (Subject to random drug testing): Yes.
• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment, including computer and peripherals; wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Posture: Prolonged sitting and standing; occasional stooping, squatting, kneeling, bending, pushing/pulling, and twisting.
• Motion: Frequent repetitive hand motions, including keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching.
• Lifting: Lifting no more than 50 pounds and carrying up to 25 pounds.
• Environment: Works in an office setting and kennel setting around animals (including diseased, injured and/or potentially aggressive animals) and outside with exposure to sun, heat, cold, humidity, and inclement weather, noise, dust, no/low light, insects, poison oak/ivy, debris, confined spaces, mold, chemicals, odors, heights, potentially hazardous conditions, steep slopes, uneven ground, and rough terrain; occasionally requires irregular and/or prolonged hours.
• Travel: Travel to City of Denton buildings and professional meetings as required.
• Attendance: Regular and punctual attendance at the worksite is required for this position. Must be able to work after normal business hours, holidays, and weekends, as needed. Must be able to work overtime, as needed. Must attend regularly scheduled and special meetings.
• Mental Demands: Maintains emotional control under stress; works with frequent interruptions.

CORE VALUES

• Inclusion
• Collaboration
• Quality Service
• Strategic Focus
• Fiscal Responsibility

TOP TIER BENEFITS

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage in addition to life and disability insurance plans
• Employee Health Clinic
• Paid Vacation Days and Paid Holidays
• Retirement Plan

EEO STATEMENT

The City of Denton is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy of the City of Denton to prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type and to afford equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to any protected class, status, characteristic, or activity. All employment decisions, including decisions regarding recruitment, selection, hiring, compensation, benefits, training, advancement, discipline, discharge, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment are made without regard to any lawfully protected class, status, characteristic, or activity.

ADA/EOE/ADEA

This job description is not an employment agreement, contract agreement, or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.