CDA- Bureau of Animal Protection Program Manager (Veterinarian II).

About the role

The Division of Animal Welfare (DAW) within the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) seeks a Program Manager for the Bureau of Animal Protection (BAP). This position oversees the daily operations of the BAP program, leading strategic development and implementation of the program, overseeing program operations, and working with diverse stakeholders to conduct outreach and education on animal health and welfare issues.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the BAP program to ensure key elements of the program are successfully executed, including administrative actions, regulatory and legislative matters, personnel management, and program reporting.
• Lead initiatives to implement and update the BAP multi-year strategic plan.
• Conduct process improvement initiatives related to program operations and investigations.
• Coordinate with CDA officials and stakeholders to review and revise legislation related to the program.
• Implement rulemaking related to the commissioning and review of BAP agents.
• Manage expenditures to ensure the program remains on budget.
• Oversee the Dangerous Dog Registry and advise on the management of the database.
• Review and approve continuing education courses for BAP agents.
• Oversee the application process for new agents and provide recommendations for approval and the renewal of credentials for existing agents.
• Organize BAP training, including arranging venues, providing content for course materials, and speakers.
• Develop printed material for BAP, including quarterly newsletters and brochures.
• Perform public outreach focused on addressing or preventing animal mistreatment and neglect.
• Seek input on animal protection in meetings with political entities, nonprofit organizations, industry associations, and local governments.
• Conduct trainings for district attorneys and law enforcement on recognizing and responding to animal mistreatment and neglect.
• Collaborate with stakeholders on proposed rules and/or statute changes and other policy matters.
• Determine timely topics for BAP newsletters and articles concerning animal protection laws and prevention.
• Properly manage and advance public-facing data reporting on BAP activities.
• Identify and pursue, as appropriate and feasible, research and partnerships that advance research into opportunities for preventing animal mistreatment and neglect.
• Oversight and coordination of investigative activities.
• Serve as the Department lead for approximately 90 BAP commissioned agents and coordinate with law enforcement on investigations related to animal mistreatment for companion animals and livestock.
• Work with the lead investigator and BAP team on establishing an investigative strategy for each case.
• Refer cases to BAP agents and law enforcement when appropriate.
• Thoroughly track the progress of open investigations, including case dispositions.
• Act as an intermediary between animal owners and law enforcement.
• Review investigative reports to ensure the investigation is complete, accurate, and unbiased.
• Oversight of enforcement actions.
• Directly coordinate with law enforcement and district attorneys on any enforcement action being considered.
• Consult with the State Veterinarian and work with legal counsel on the development of legal enforcement documents and actions.
• Update Department leadership on the disposition of cases and recommended enforcement actions.
• Oversee coordination with brand inspectors, sale barns, shelters, emergency response units related to the transport, boarding, and care of animals that are relinquished or seized, and any other relevant parties.
• Supervision and leadership.
• Develop and supervise professional staff, ensuring the delivery of services that support the overall operations of the program.
• Establish program organizational structure as necessary, including hiring new employees.
• Provide direction and training necessary to ensure staff are knowledgeable and up-to-date in their respective job skills and duties and responsibilities.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as animal science, public health, or a related discipline, along with at least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in animal welfare, law enforcement, or a related field. Experience managing a large team, coordinating with law enforcement, and developing and implementing strategic plans is highly desirable. Candidates should also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Qualifications

Qualified candidates must hold a valid Colorado driver's license and be able to travel frequently throughout the state. Applicants must also pass a background check and drug screening.

Skills

Strong leadership, strategic planning, and project management skills are essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with animal welfare laws and regulations are required. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, are critical.

Benefits

The position offers a comprehensive benefits package including strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits, medical and dental health plans, an employer-supplemented Health Savings Account, paid life insurance, and various types of disability coverage. Additionally, the state offers a wide range of work-life programs and opportunities for professional development.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $80,000 - $100,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience.

Schedule

This position requires frequent travel throughout the state and may involve evening and weekend work. The schedule is flexible but may require some flexibility to accommodate the demands of the job.