Animal Services Officer - Non-Merit

Regular Schedule: 39 hours per week. A Non‑Merit vacancy exists in the Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Animal Services, Communicable Disease and Environmental Services. Responsibilities Under general supervision, investigate complaints, inspect facilities, and enforce laws, codes, and regulations pertaining to animal protection. Performs duties in the receipt, care, custody, and disposition of animals, and the operation and maintenance of animal shelter facilities. Operate an animal services vehicle. Impound stray animals and transport them to shelter facilities. Assist with aggressive, sick, injured or dead domestic pets and wildlife. Impound and return community cats as part of the Trap‑Neuter‑Return (TNR) program. Enforce animal laws and issue citations. Receive, respond to, and investigate complaints and inquiries regarding animal services. Respond to emergency calls during scheduled on‑call shifts. Investigate reports of animal cruelty, animal bites, nuisance and/or dangerous animals and other suspected violations of animal laws including removal of dangerous animals or those who are victims of animal neglect/cruelty. Testify in court and at hearings. Inspect kennels, grooming parlors, pet shops and other animal care facilities. Provide general information, instruction, education, and assistance to the public regarding animal programs, services, and operations. Complete thorough inspection reports and enter data into computer. Maintain vehicles and assigned equipment. Assist veterinarians in the examination and treatment of animals. Administer minor medical treatments to animals. Euthanize animals. Prepare and deliver rabies lab specimens. Keep records of adoptions, redemptions, impoundments and euthanasia. Enter data into computer. Collect fees. Provide information to the public about adoption, animal laws and licensing. Inform pet owners about available low‑cost veterinary services including rabies vaccination, microchipping and spay/neuter. Share details and importance of Animal Services' programs including foster, volunteer, TNR and rabies prevention at off‑site events and for community outreach. Required Qualifications Possession of a high school diploma or an appropriate equivalent plus two years in an investigation and enforcement capacity or animal care and handling in a shelter, veterinary hospital or other equivalent animal care/control organization. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Entry Level) Ability to learn and enforce laws, codes, and regulations pertaining to animal protection and care. Ability to acquire knowledge of the principles and practices of humane animal care. Ability to learn how to investigate and resolve complaints. Possess and maintain certification for Euthanasia by Injection (EBI) or obtain certification within six months of hire. Ability to work on‑call nights, weekends, and holidays. Successfully complete Animal Control Officers training program within the first year of hire. Ability to testify in civil and criminal court proceedings. Ability to use problem‑solving skills, sound judgment, and common sense in working through unusual and sometimes highly emotional situations. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Full Performance) Skill in the care and treatment of animals. Skill in handling and transporting animals. Skill in the use of computers and application software. Ability to read and understand maps, operate GPS equipment and portable radios. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co‑workers and the public. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to complete and maintain files, records, and forms. Licenses and Certificates Possession of a valid driver's license equivalent to a noncommercial, class C Maryland driver's license is required at the time of appointment. Proof of Licenses, Certifications, and Education Applicants must submit proof of licenses, certifications, and education beyond high school. Diplomas or transcripts must show the applicant’s major field of study. Copies and unofficial transcripts are acceptable. Proof of Degree Equivalency Applicants who have obtained a degree outside the United States of America are required to submit degree equivalence documentation from World Education Services, Inc. Examination Procedure Applicants will be qualified based on an evaluation of their training and experience, as stated on their application, including supplemental answers. Applicants must state the dates and duties of past and present experience clearly and completely for evaluation purposes. Physical and Environmental Conditions The work of this classification entails heavy physical labor including bending, stooping, lifting, and carrying heavy animals and objects, and the operation of vehicles and equipment. Work requires exposure to potentially hazardous conditions such as rabid animals, adverse weather, traffic, and cleaning supplies. Medical Examination and Employment Background Investigation Applicants selected for an appointment must successfully complete a physical examination, drug screen, and employment background investigation, including a criminal background, education, and fingerprint check. #J-18808-Ljbffr Baltimore County, MD