Animal Control Officer; part-time

The Part-Time Animal Control Officer is responsible for protecting the safety of residents, animals, and property by enforcing local animal control ordinances and applicable State laws. This position responds to complaints, investigates animal-related incidents, impounds and cares for animals, and provides emergency response services.

The role also includes maintenance of the animal shelter and participation in a rotating on-call schedule to ensure 24-hour emergency coverage.

The duties listed below represent the primary responsibilities of the position. Other related duties may be assigned as needed.

• Respond to public complaints and enforce all animal control ordinances and applicable State and Town laws for Branford and North Branford.
• Investigate animal-related incidents, including bites, neglect, cruelty cases, and wildlife complaints.
• Capture, impound, and care for roaming, injured, neglected, or mistreated dogs, cats, and other domestic animals.
• Notify animal owners when known and coordinate animal release and payment of applicable fees.
• Arrange for proper disposition of animals when owners do not reclaim them, in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.
• Capture unattended or dangerous animals using appropriate tools and techniques.
• Investigate wildlife-related issues involving animals such as deer, coyotes, raccoons, and rabies-suspected animals.
• Pick up and properly dispose of deceased domestic and wild animals on Town roads and properties.
• Exercise appropriate safety precautions when handling potentially rabid animals and coordinate actions with the contracted veterinarian and State authorities.
• Rescue or assist in the rescue of trapped, sick, or injured animals, including animals involved in neglect or cruelty cases, in coordination with local police.
• Maintain the animal shelter, including daily cleaning, basic repairs, and reporting the need for major repairs or mechanical issues.
• Train volunteers on animal care and kennel cleaning procedures.
• Educate the public on responsible animal care and wildlife habits, risks, and safety.
• Provide 24‑hour emergency services through a rotating on‑call and overnight schedule.
• Answer incoming phone calls as needed

Supervision Received:

Works under the general direction of the Director of Animal Control or designee.

Supervision Given:

None

Education, Training and

Experience:

• National Animal Control Association (NACA) Level I and Level II Certification required
• One (1) year of animal control experience preferred
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Knowledge, Ability and

Skills:

• Knowledge of safe animal handling, capture techniques, and animal first aid
• Knowledge of wildlife behavior and animal diseases
• Understanding of public health risks, quarantine procedures, and rabies protocols
• Working knowledge of animal control laws, ordinances, and regulations
• Familiarity with court procedures related to animal control cases
• Basic proficiency with office automation applications and equipment

• Microsoft PC and standard office software
• Animal control tools and equipment, including capture and transport devices

Work is performed at the animal shelter and in the field, including private residences, roadways, wooded areas, and other outdoor locations. The position involves exposure to loud noise, inclement weather, hazardous materials, traffic, and potentially aggressive or injured animals. Driving is required.

The position requires frequent standing, walking, talking, hearing, and use of hands and arms. Duties may involve climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, bending, pushing, pulling, lifting, and driving. Lifting requirements may range up to and over 100 pounds on an occasional basis. The work environment may include exposure to extreme temperatures, fumes, chemicals, vibrations, and moving mechanical parts.

• Close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth vision

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement. It is intended as a guide and may be modified as operational needs change.