Animal Control Officer

Job Description

Job Description

Animal Services Officer (Part-Time)

Schedule: Wednesday through Saturday, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

The Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) is seeking a dedicated Animal Services Officer to help protect animals, support public safety, and strengthen the bond between pets and people throughout our community.

This is a unique opportunity for someone who enjoys working independently, solving problems in the field, and making a direct impact every day. As an Animal Services Officer, you'll be the first responder to animal-related concerns throughout the Des Moines community, helping resolve situations involving stray animals, animal welfare concerns, ordinance violations, injured animals, and public safety issues.

No two days are the same. One call may involve reuniting a lost pet with its family, while the next may require investigating a neglect complaint, assisting law enforcement, or helping an injured animal receive needed care. This role requires sound judgment, professionalism, compassion, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

As an Animal Services Officer, you will respond to calls for service involving public safety, animal welfare, and quality-of-life concerns throughout the Des Moines community. You will investigate reports of animal cruelty, neglect, abandonment, bites, and ordinance violations while educating citizens on responsible pet ownership and applicable city regulations.

Working independently in the field, you will patrol assigned areas, respond to citizen complaints, safely handle and transport animals, provide assistance to injured or distressed animals, and work collaboratively with law enforcement, veterinary professionals, and ARL staff to resolve complex situations. You will document investigations, prepare reports, maintain accurate records, and issue warnings or citations when appropriate.

This position requires balancing enforcement responsibilities with education and customer service. Successful officers understand that many situations require compassion, conflict resolution, and community engagement in addition to enforcing local ordinances.

At times, the role may involve exposure to difficult situations involving animal neglect, injury, abuse, or public safety concerns. Humane euthanasia may be performed when necessary and in accordance with established protocols.

Successful candidates are self-motivated professionals who are comfortable making independent decisions in dynamic situations. You possess strong communication skills and can effectively interact with individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds while maintaining professionalism and respect.

A high school diploma or GED and a valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record are required. Candidates must be able to pass a police background investigation and safely operate Animal Services vehicles and equipment.

The ideal candidate demonstrates sound judgment, emotional resilience, strong problem-solving abilities, and excellent attention to detail. You should be comfortable interpreting and applying city ordinances, preparing accurate reports, and managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Experience in animal welfare, law enforcement, public safety, security, veterinary medicine, animal handling, or customer service is beneficial but not required.

Above all, we're looking for someone who is passionate about animal welfare, committed to public service, and eager to make a positive difference in the community.

This position requires working outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, and other environmental conditions. Employees regularly interact with animals of varying temperaments and may be exposed to animal waste, zoonotic diseases, odors, scratches, bites, and moderate noise levels.

The role requires frequent driving, standing, walking, bending, lifting, and handling animals. Candidates must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and perform duties that can be physically demanding. The position also involves responding to emotionally challenging situations involving injured, neglected, abandoned, or deceased animals.

At the ARL, your work has a direct impact on both animals and the community. Every day presents new challenges, opportunities to help others, and the chance to improve the lives of animals in need.

You'll join a mission-driven team dedicated to public service, animal welfare, and community education. Whether you're helping a lost pet find its way home, ensuring animals receive the care they deserve, or helping keep the community safe, your work will make a meaningful difference.

This position is ideal for someone looking for a part-time schedule while still serving the community in a highly rewarding and impactful role.

Employment in this position is at-will, meaning that either the employee or the ARL may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any lawful reason.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and/or applicable state regulations, the Animal Rescue League of Iowa will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations.