Animal Control Officer

Description

Job Title: Animal Control Officer

Department: Animal Care Facility

Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Pay Grade: 11
Salary Range: $17.50 – $21.87 DOQ per hour

General Description

The Animal Control Officer enforces animal control laws by capturing, handling, transporting, and disposing of animals in accordance with city and state laws and regulations. The Officer patrols the City, responds to assignments and requests for assistance, educates the community about stray or vicious animals and related diseases, and investigates complaints. Frequent communication with coworkers, members of the public, and other agencies is necessary to fulfill essential duties.

Essential Job Duties

The Animal Control Officer must be able to perform the following essential job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Enforce City and State animal regulations, including cruelty to animals, dangerous or vicious animals, and animal bites involving dogs, cats, livestock, and fowl.
• Perform emergency animal rescue services, emergency night call service, and animal first aid as required.
• Feed, clean, and sanitize animal holding areas, and administer medications as needed.
• Serve and respond to court and Animal Control Board summonses and represent the City at hearings.
• Maintain radio contact as required.
• Set traps to capture evasive animals.
• Destroy dangerous or vicious animals safely and humanely as authorized.
• Educate the public on proper animal care, wildlife issues, and animal control regulations.
• Prepare and maintain records in accordance with department standards.
• Refer animal cruelty and similar cases to the Converse Criminal Investigations Division.
• Perform routine equipment and vehicle checks and report any maintenance needs.
• Respond to and investigate complaints from citizens concerning domestic animals.
• Follow City policies and procedures, department training, and supervisor instructions.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, co-workers, and the public to exchange information, resolve issues, and provide service.
• Exercise good judgment in decision-making and daily duties.
• Work outdoors in varied climate conditions, including hot, cold, wet, and enclosed environments.
• Maintain punctual, regular, on-site attendance, including availability for callback and emergencies.
• Dress appropriately in compliance with City policy.
• Safeguard City property and report needed repairs.
• Work safely, follow safety rules, wear protective gear when required, and maintain a safe work environment.
• Maintain confidentiality about City business.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors.

Requirements

Education and Basic Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to handle animals safely and effectively
• Ability to obtain Basic Certificate for Animal Control Officer issued by the Texas Department of Health within 12 months of hire
• Valid Texas Class C driver’s license and acceptable driving record
• Successful completion of background checks, pre-employment physical exam, driver’s license check, and drug screening

Other Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of effective methods of controlling and containing domestic animals
• Ability to humanely euthanize animals and dispose of them properly
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions, departmental policy, rules, and law
• Ability to write legibly and maintain accurate records
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, internet applications, and Animal Care Facility software
• Ability to maintain professional relationships with co-workers, other departments, outside agencies, and the public
• Availability for work before and after scheduled hours and for callback as needed

Physical and Mental Requirements

• Sit, stand, walk, run, bend, reach, grasp, push, pull, and remain upright for extended periods
• Lift or move objects weighing up to fifty pounds
• Work outdoors in inclement weather, including extreme temperatures, humidity, dust, rain, and snow
• Ability to cope with pressure, stress, and deadlines
• Good coordination, motor skills, and hearing to respond effectively in emergencies
• Perform repetitive hand motions for extended periods when driving or handling animals

Employment Disclosures

• This is a safety-sensitive position subject to random drug and alcohol testing under City policy and applicable law
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Employment eligibility will be verified through E-Verify
• The City of Converse is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, or genetic information
• Employees are employed on an at-will basis. Employment may be terminated by the City or the employee at any time, with or without cause. This job description does not create an employment contract