Animal Services Officer (Animal Control Officer I)

Are you passionate about animal welfare and ready to make a meaningful impact in our community? Join our team as an Animal Services Officer (ASO) in the newly created Field Services Division of Fairfax County Animal Services!

About Us:
With a population of 1.2 million people, our community is rich with companion animals, livestock, and diverse wildlife, making every day as an ASO both Engaging and rewarding. Our department is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of both animals and residents in Fairfax County. With two shelter campuses, we care for 4,000–5,000 animals annually and maintain a consistent live release rate of over 90%.

This entry-level position offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of animal welfare and public safety, with a clear path for growth and advancement to higher-level positions as the division expands. Leadership roles within the division will be available soon.

For more information about a career with Field Services, visit here. To learn more about Fairfax County Animal Services, please visit our website here.

What You’ll Do:
ASOs are responsible for enforcing the animal control laws and regulations in Fairfax County. As an ASO, you’ll be directly involved in essential responsibilities such as capturing stray animals, rescuing sick or injured wildlife, investigating cases of animal cruelty and dangerous animals, and responding to animal bites and exposure incidents. Additionally, you will educate the public and provide vital resources to the community, all while making a tangible impact on both animal welfare and public safety.

Responsibilities:

• Investigates and responds to a wide range of animal-related complaints, including dangerous animals, animal cruelty and neglect, and rabies control.
• Safely rescues and transports domestic animals and wildlife safely, and perform humane euthanasia when necessary, ensuring the well-being of the animals and the community.
• Communicates clearly and effectively with the public, fellow employees, and officials, explaining ordinances, violations, corrective actions, and programs such as spay/neuter initiatives and rabies control.
• Gathers evidence, prepare detailed reports, issues summonses, and provides testimony in court related to animal-related offenses.
• Collaborates with various Fairfax County agencies, including the police department, fire and rescue, health department, code compliance, and others.
• Conducts educational outreach to promote animal welfare and inform the community about responsible pet ownership and local ordinances.
• Provides direct care and enrichment for animals within the shelter, ensuring their safety and well-being.

Flexibility is a condition of employment. All DAS positions are subject to assignment to any shift, schedule, or facility based on operational needs. This includes, but is not limited to, changes in work hours, shift days and times, and reassignment between department facilities or locations at any time. Employees may be directed to work alternative schedules or locations as required to support agency operations.