ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

GENERAL DEFINITION OF WORK:

The Animal Control Officer performs responsible work in responding to inquiries and complaints concerning animal control, enforcing animal control ordinances and related laws, conducting investigations and inspections, issuing warrants, citations and warnings, and reporting daily activities while educating the public about relevant animal regulations and humane animal care. This position reports directly to the Animal Control Director and assists the Animal Shelter Manager with shelter operations, as deemed necessary.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/TYPICAL TASKS:

Interacting directly with the public on a daily basis, serving as the frontline of defense to protect the health and safety of animals and humans. Preparing, organizing and filing reports and documents. Organizing, prioritizing and responding to dispatched calls in a timely manner. Investigating and enforcing local and state animal control laws.

(These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the positions.)

• Investigates all complaints of cruelty to animals and violations of state and local laws pertaining to keeping, raising and housing of all domestic animals;
• Responds to dispatched calls in priority order and determines appropriate action;
• Patrols the County to engage in various animal control duties, including containing/retrieving sick, injured, stray dogs and transporting them to the appropriate destination;
• Investigates animal bite complaints, implements and releases domestic animal quarantines;
• Educates the public while in the field regarding responsible pet ownership, animals laws and ordinances;
• Works directly with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to prosecute violators of the animal code as well as the comprehensive animal laws in Virginia;
• Prepares and maintains accurate records and reports of all activities;
• Ensures proper maintenance and safety standards are met for assigned vehicle and equipment;
• Assists in shelter care and impounded animals when necessary;
• Assists staff, volunteers and the public with information regarding situations such as nuisance or trapped animals and answers questions about animal control policies and laws;
• Performs emergency animal rescue services, emergency night call services, and animal first aid when required;
• Assists in performing health and behavioral evaluations on individuals’ animals
• Performs various shelter related and other duties as assigned by the Animal Shelter Manager.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of animal care and behavior including willingness and ability to learn the comprehensive animal laws of Virginia and Appomattox County; Knowledge of various equipment, materials and specialty items used in animal care and control procedures; Knowledge of occupational hazards and the ability to conform to safety precautions and procedures.

Ability to attend annual trainings and/or related Animal Control meetings; Ability to handle and transport animals and operate a vehicle safely and securely; Ability to maintain effective relationships with all department personnel, professionals and members of the public in a courteous manner; Ability to use independent judgment and discretion in determining procedures, setting priorities, maintaining standards, and resolving problems; Ability to write and communicate clear and concise information.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

A minimum of a High School diploma and a valid Virginia driver’s license are required.

Must receive pre-exposure rabies vaccinations and authorize the County to perform a criminal background check upon employment; Must attend the required Virginia state mandated courses and/or trainings for a Basic Animal Control Officer, firearms, and obtain appropriate certifications within 12 months of employment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The work is considered moderate in nature, requires the ability to exert moderate physical effort which typically involves some combination of walking, stretching, stooping, kneeling, crouching and crawling. This position requires the ability to occasionally lift, carry, push and pull heavy objects and materials including exerting up to 100 lbs. of force to move animals, objects, etc.

*Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential tasks.

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Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $32,000.00 - $35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Holidays
• On call
• Weekend availability

Application Question(s):

• Why do you think you are a good fit for this position?
• Have you completed the County Application located at www.appomattoxcountyva.gov? If not, please do so.

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

• Animal handling: 1 year (Preferred)
• Code Enforcement: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Virginia Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: One location