Animal Control Officer

Animal Control Officer Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. An employee may be requested to perform other duties assigned within the scope of responsibility and requirements of the job. Class Specification The Animal Control Officer performs duties related to animal control, public safety, animal welfare, and rabies prevention and control. Under the direction of the Animal Control Sergeant, the officer captures and impounds animals; responds to animal-related complaints and emergencies; enforces applicable County Orders and state laws; maintains shelter operations; assists with rabies quarantine and investigations; humanely euthanizes animals when authorized; and maintains accurate records and reports. Examples of Important Responsibilities and Duties Important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Essential duties and responsibilities: 1. Assist the Animal Control Sergeant with enforcement of County Orders and applicable state laws. 2. Patrol Hood County and respond to calls involving stray, injured, aggressive, dangerous, or unwanted animals. 3. Capture, handle, transport, impound, and care for animals in a safe and humane manner. 4. Maintain the animal shelter, grounds, vehicles, and equipment in a clean and sanitary condition. 5. Feed, water, monitor, and provide appropriate care for impounded and quarantined animals. 6. Respond to animal bites, rabies concerns, welfare complaints, and other animal-related emergencies. 7. Investigate complaints and issue citations, warnings, and notices as authorized. 8. Assist with rabies investigations, quarantines, testing, and required documentation. 9. Humanely euthanize animals when authorized and in accordance with established procedures. 10. Maintain accurate records, case files, reports, and financial records as directed. 11. Assist with the collection and processing of fees. 12. Communicate professionally with the public, County officials, law enforcement, veterinarians, rescue organizations, and other agencies. 13. Testify in court or administrative proceedings when required. 14. Assist with adoption events, community outreach, vaccination clinics, and other Animal Control activities. 15. Perform other related duties as assigned by the Animal Control Sergeant. Qualifications ****Knowledge of: **** - Animal control laws, County Orders, and rabies prevention and control procedures. - Basic animal handling, restraint, care, sanitation, and shelter operations. - Safe work practices and proper use of animal control equipment. ** Ability to: ** - Safely and humanely handle a variety of domestic and wild animals. - Read and understand laws, regulations, policies, and procedures. - Prepare accurate reports and maintain records. - Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. - Exercise sound judgment and remain professional in stressful or potentially dangerous situations. - Work independently and maintain effective working relationships with the public and coworkers. Experience and Training: A ny combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Experience and Training - High school diploma or GED. - At least one year of experience working with animals preferred; equivalent experience in Animal Control or a related field may be considered. - Must successfully complete required Animal Control Officer training and certifications within the required timeframe. License or Certificate - Valid Texas Drivers License in good standing. - Must obtain and maintain required Animal Control Officer certifications. - Must complete all required training related to rabies control, animal andling, humane euthanasia, and safety. Working Conditions Environmental and Physical Conditions: - The employee regularly works outdoors and may be exposed to extreme weather conditions, animal bites and scratches, zoonotic diseases, animal waste, cleaning chemicals, fumes, and other occupational hazards. - The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 150 pounds. - The position requires the ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, reach, climb, and safely handle animals of varying sizes. Equal Opportunity Employer Hood County is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status including but not limited to an individuals disability, sex, race, color, national origin, or age.