JOB
Under the supervision of assigned Lieutenant, the employee enforces the City ordinances regulating the maintenance of animals; and investigates animal control related complaints and complaints concerning animal cruelty. Employee captures stray and vicious animals and transports them to the appropriate, designated location and completes necessary paperwork. Employee informs pet owners of code requirements and ensures owners remain in compliance. Employee makes judgement calls onsite, contacts law enforcement for back up, and issues citations. The employee is the technical and service reference point for all animal control functions. The employee serves as the coordinating official between the Animal Shelter and the City. Work is performed in accordance with established rules, regulations, and instructions from superior officers, and work is reviewed upon completion. This job classification is considered to be safety-sensitive and is subject to pre-employment background check and random drug screens.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The following list was developed through a job analysis; however, it is not exhaustive and other duties may be required and assigned. A person with a disability which is covered by the ADA must be able to perform the essential functions of the job unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation.ESSENTIAL FUNCTION: Animal Control. Works with the public to respond appropriately to reports of nuisance animals. Captures, transports, and cares for animals in a safe and humane manner. Follows all laws and ordinances related to animal control. Utilizes specialize tools and equipment. Enforces City animal control ordinances and codes.Receives calls and complaints regarding nuisance animals; responds appropriately.Responds to the public inquiries and investigates complaints.Takes appropriate measures to protect the public from vicious animals.Assists owners in locating lost pets.Drives to patrol the City for animals at-large.Captures stray, nuisance, vicious, and diseased animals.Positions animal traps to ensure highest chance of animal capture.Loads and unloads animals into/out of cages and on and off truck.Captures and relocates wildlife such as squirrels, alligators, snakes, raccoons, and bats.Transports animals to the animal shelter, veterinarians, and other locations.Informs residents of the animal control ordinances and need for compliance.Assists in solving problems associated with animal control within the City.Assists other public safety officers when animals are involved.Takes photographs of animals and their environments.Utilizes special equipment and tools associated with animal control activities such as animal restraint equipment, animal traps, catch poles, and small hand tools.Issues citations for violations of animal control ordinances.Maintains a current knowledge and awareness of applicable laws, codes, and ordinances; maintains an awareness of appropriate procedures and advances in the profession.Utilizes safety and protective equipment and gear.Performs all tasks in a humane manner. ESSENTIAL FUNCTION: Animal Control Investigations and Reporting. Investigates animal cruelty reports, animal bites and maintains all reports and records; ensures animals are handled properly. Maintains a log of all calls and mileage.Investigates situations of abused or neglected animals.Receives and investigates animal cruelty reports.Intervenes in cases of animal hoarding; determines best course of action.Investigates all reported animal bites.Investigates situations for possible rabies infections.Photographs stray animals and posts on social media to find owners.Attends court as required; testifies as called.Seizes abandon animals or animals in case of animal hoarding.Contacts other law enforcement agencies, as necessary.Assists in compiling of complaints, photos, owners, weather reports, etc.Completes all required records and reportsUses computer to enter data and maintain records.Maintains and cleans City vehicle.NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Retrieves and transports evidence as requested by the Investigations Division.Reloads waste bag stations at public locations throughout City.Assists with public relations activities at social events and activities for children.Performs other job-related duties as required or assigned.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities(* Can be acquired on the job) *Knowledge of City rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.*Knowledge of City locations and boundaries.*Knowledge of City, state and federal animal control laws, ordinances, and associated court processes.*Knowledge of investigative and security procedures.Knowledge of animal control practices, methods, and procedures.Knowledge of animal behavior.Knowledge of animal husbandry.Knowledge of animal control equipment and proper use.Knowledge of practices of humane treatment of animals.Knowledge of safety rules including accident causation and prevention.Communication skills to efficiently communicate orally and in writing with officials, supervisor, and the general public.Reading skills to understand and interpret manuals, directives, written reports and complaints, rules, regulations, ordinances, and other documents. Writing skills to clearly and neatly complete routine forms and records.Listening skills to receive radio calls, take complaints, and interview witnesses.Driving skills to safely operate a vehicle under adverse conditions.Skill in working with animals.Skills and strength to operate special tools and equipment.Ability to investigate complaints and make decisions based on information gatheredAbility to accurately analyze situations associated with nuisance animals and animal control, and adopt quick, effective, and reasonable courses of action.Ability to work in stressful and potentially dangerous situations.Ability to capture and restrain nuisance animals.Ability to work independently and without direct supervision.Ability to lift animals and items weighing in excess of 50 pounds.Ability to run; defend self and others from confrontations and animal attacks.Ability to organize and multitask.Ability to use specialized equipment and tools.Ability to use computers and office productivity software.Ability to use two-way communication devices.Ability to drive.Physical DemandsThe work requires considerable and strenuous physical exertion such as frequent climbing of tall ladders, lifting heavy objects over 50 lbs., crouching, or crawling in restricted areas, and defending oneself or others from physical attack. Work EnvironmentThe work environment involves high risks with exposure to potentially dangerous situations or unusual environmental stress which require a range of safety and other precautions, e.g., working at great heights under extreme weather conditions, subject to physical attack or mob conditions, or similar situations where conditions cannot be controlled.