Animal Control Officer

About the role

Harris County Public Health (HCPH) includes a network of more than 1,100 public health professionals working together to improve health outcomes for the third most populous county in the United States. HCPH provides a multitude of services such as medical and dental services, community programming, and health education for the approximately 2.3 million people in unincorporated Harris County. Through its core values of innovation, engagement, and health equity, HCPH strives to bring meaningful solutions to public health issues while keeping Harris County healthy and vibrant.

Responsibilities

• Responds to citizen requests for service, as outlined in the Animal Control Officer Training Manual, and enforces local animal laws and regulations.
• Completes special assignments as needed, such as assisting law enforcement officers with evictions and arrests.
• Investigates animal bite incidents, guides both the animal owner and the victim regarding necessary procedures, and ensures proper documentation of the case.
• Operates County vehicles and equipment, ensuring daily maintenance, cleaning, and disinfecting are completed to ensure proper function and sanitation.
• Inputs and maintains accurate records of impounded animals, including animal details and photographs, ensuring proper linking for the County website.
• Conducts inspections of Dangerous Dog facilities to ensure compliance with Harris County regulations and standards for safety and animal care.
• Attends court hearings as needed, presenting required records and documentation, and maintains a professional image and demeanor at all times.
• Teaches scheduled animal safety and bite prevention programs to the public, promoting awareness and education.
• Participates in community events such as vaccination clinics, health fairs, and mobile adoptions, as assigned, to promote animal welfare and services.

Requirements

• Education: High School Diploma or GED
• Experience: At least one (1) year of paid work experience in a role providing direct customer service.
• Experience: At least six (6) months of basic knowledge of dog and cat care experience.
• Certifications/Licenses: Valid Texas Driver's License (upon hire)

Qualifications

• Knowledge of effective strategies for maintaining objectivity in difficult and high-pressure situations.
• Knowledge of ethical standards related to documentation, time management, and maintaining honesty and trustworthiness in the workplace.
• Skill in collaborating effectively as a team player, consistently contributing to the success and improvement of the department.
• Ability to work independently, managing tasks efficiently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to complete paperwork with accuracy, clarity, and attention to detail.
• Ability to complete Basic Animal Control Officer Certification.

Core Competencies

• Data Analytics and Assessment Skills: Ability to use data to analyze community health needs and support decisions that improve community health outcomes.
• Communication Skills: This competency focuses on using clear and effective communication to engage audiences, address misinformation, and build trust, supporting informed decisions and stronger public health outcomes.
• Health Advancement Skills: This competency focuses on applying principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion to public health, addressing systemic barriers, and promoting fair access to resources for healthier communities.
• Community Partnership Skills: This competency focuses on collaborating with communities to address the systems and policies affecting health, fostering engagement, shared ownership, and sustainable improvements in well-being.
• Public Health Science Skills: This competency focuses on using public health science and evidence-based approaches to develop and improve policies and programs, ensuring effective delivery of the 10 Essential Public Health Services.

Physical Demands

• Will be required to lift and restrain animals or other objects up to 50 pounds.
• Must be in good physical health.
• May have to manually set up and tear down equipment as the mobile clinic requires.

Work Location

Harris County Public Health: Harris County Pets - 612 Canino Rd. Houston, Texas. 77076.