Animal Control Officer

About the role

This job description outlines essential duties for the Animal Control Officer position, performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

Responsibilities

• Investigates animal-related complaints from residents in accordance with state, county, and/or city ordinances.
• Assists residents with ordinance compliance through education, resource connection, or issuance of violation/warning citations.
• Responds to citizen complaints regarding stray or wild animals; captures, returns, transports, or transfers animals as appropriate.
• Maintains accurate records of animal control activities, including citations, impoundments, complaints, and inquiries.
• Testifies in court as needed.
• Assists the public with reclaiming impounded animals and answers questions about state and local laws.
• Administers euthanasia to animals when necessary and ensures proper disposal of remains.
• Inspects and investigates complaints at pet stores, boarding kennels, grooming facilities, and chicken flocks for ordinance compliance.
• Evaluates emergencies and provides first aid, pain management, or euthanasia as appropriate.
• Assists law enforcement agencies during operations involving animals (e.g., arrests, warrant searches, deaths).
• Occasionally presents on animal care and safety to community groups.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to capture and handle animals of varying temperaments, health conditions, and environments.
• Availability to respond to animal-related emergencies on a 24-hour basis, as scheduled.
• Legal ability to operate a motor vehicle.

Working Conditions

• Performs duties indoors and outdoors in varied weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, snow, etc.).
• Exposed to hazards from handling frightened, vicious, or diseased animals.
• Subject to potential exposure to rabies, animal feces, bodily fluids, contagious diseases, parasites, and toxic substances (e.g., disinfectants, corrosive cleaners).
• Regularly interacts with emotional individuals in stressful situations.
• Requires lifting and carrying large dogs (potentially up to 100 lbs) and other animals for extended periods.

Work Relationships

• Maintains frequent contact with department superiors, co-workers, pet owners, and the general public.
• Communicates daily activities, explains city ordinances, and presents on animal care and safety.