Animal Control Officer

DEFINITION: The Animal Control Officer, under general supervision, assists in the control of animals in the City and in the operation and care of the Animal Shelter.ESSENTIAL AND RELATED FUNCTION STATEMENTS:
Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Participate in all Marshall Pet Adoption Center work activities including daily feeding, cleaning, and grooming of resident animals; capturing, restraining, impoundment, quarantine, and release; ensure shelter safety and humane environment; maintain proper sanitation standards.  
• Examine all animals for injuries or malnutrition and report findings to supervisor for follow-up action.  
• Train and maintain certification for humane euthanasia practices; perform euthanasia only when absolutely necessary as a last resort under strict protocols and at the direction of the Animal Services Manager or Police supervisor.  
• Investigate reports of animal attacks or animal cruelty, including interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, writing reports, and testifying in court proceedings.  
• Interpret local ordinances, City policies, and state statutes/regulations pertaining to animal control field investigations.
• Collect, account, and receipt appropriately all fees received for surrender, impoundment, quarantine, adoption fees and monetary/supply donations.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with City staff and the general public.  
• Prepare various productivity and statistical reports; participate in various public education activities.
• Perform other duties as apparent and/or assigned.        

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Sufficient education, training and/or work experience to demonstrate possession of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities which would typically be acquired through:

• High school diploma or equivalent; vocational training or job related course work preferred.  
• Must have knowledge of methods of animal care through animal control, veterinary services, or other related work experience.
• Must be available for on-call rotation and evening/weekend work.  
• Ability to cope with offensive sights, odors, constant noise, and exposure to physically injurious situations.
• Knowledge of standard office/computer equipment and general recordkeeping principles and procedures required.  
• Must obtain TDH Basic Animal Control and Euthanasia Technician certifications within six (6) months of employment; must be able to obtain Advanced Level Animal Control Certification.  
• Must have a valid Texas driver’s license and an acceptable driving record.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Considerable and strenuous physical exertion including lifting objects over 50 pounds, crouching/crawling in restricted areas, chasing, and subduing animals.
• Physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities which may include subduing resisting animals, chasing fleeing animals, running, walking, crouching or crawling, moving deceased animals and operating assigned equipment and vehicles.