Animal Control Officer (Grant Funded)

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The Animal Control Officer (Grant Funded) is responsible for performing entry level duties in the collection, impoundment, care, treatment, and euthanasia of dogs, cats, and other wild and domestic animals; to enforce laws, ordinances, and regulations relating to control of animals, disease control, public safety, and education; and to keep detailed records of all animal control functions. Work is performed in accordance with municipal and state laws governing animal control and requires some independent judgment and initiative in the application of laws. Difficult problems are referred to a supervisor. Courtesy, tact and firmness are required in dealing with the general public in a variety of situations, some of which may be stressful. General supervision is received from a Senior Animal Control Officer, who evaluates performance based on observation and discussions concerning the effectiveness of carrying out instructions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This list is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate.

• Responds to and resolves animal control complaints and concerns.
• Investigates complaints of animal bites/attacks, strays, nuisance and abuse.
• Patrols City for stray, injured and deceased animals; snares and impounds animals with net, rope or device; disposes of deceased animals.
• Destroys rabid and unclaimed animals as directed.
• Examines animal licenses for validity and issues warnings to delinquent owners.
• Removes animals from inhumane conditions and transports them to shelter for treatment/care.
• Cleans incinerator, unit cages, and empties shelter freezes.
• Writes daily/weekly/monthly activity reports related to animals impounded, released, and disposed of.
• Initiates legal action, i.e., provides related case documentation and testimony, as necessary.
• Observes all safety regulations and communicates potential risks.
• Demonstrates continuous effort to improve operations and to provide quality seamless customer service.
• Monitors and enforce local animal control ordinances.
• Ensures safety of public.
• Promotes the welfare and humane treatment of animals.
• Responds to emergency calls promptly.
• Educates the public.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintain regular and prompt attendance; physically present to work
• Performs after work hours as required (nights and weekends)

Additional Requirements:

• This position requires the use of City vehicles. Individuals must be physically capable of operating vehicles safely and possess a valid drivers license.
• Some positions will require the performance of other essential and marginal functions depending upon assignment.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED & EXERCISED

• General supervision is received from a Senior Animal Control Officer.
• This position has no supervisory responsibility.

QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES

Knowledge of:

• Basic principles of law enforcement.
• General principles of animal care and disease treatment and prevention.
• Basic mathematical principles.
• English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation.
• Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment.
• Principals and procedures of record keeping and reporting.
• Safe driving principles and practices.

Ability to:

• Operate a variety of animal control equipment and tools in a safe and effective manner.
• Operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and software.
• Operate a motor vehicle safely.
• Interpret and apply applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes and regulations to animal control.
• Communicate clearly and concisely in Spanish and English, both orally and in writing.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Work cooperatively with other City employees and the general public.
• Prepare and maintain accurate and complete records.
• Respond to requests and inquiries from the general public.

Education & Experience:

High school diploma or equivalent; or six (6) months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Licenses, Certificates & Registrations:

• Basic Animal Control Certification is required and must be obtained within one year of employment.
• Euthanasia Certification is preferred and must be obtained within one year of employment
• Valid Texas Driver's License.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The employee is frequently required to use hands to handle and feel; reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb; balance; stoop; kneel and crouch; and lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The employee is exposed to outdoor weather conditions, blood borne pathogens, moving vehicle traffic and disagreeable elements. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

SAFETY SENSITIVITY

This position is not classified as a safety-sensitive position.