Animal Control Officer

Starting placement will generally not exceed 15% of the advertised initial salary range and is based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity.

The purpose of this position is to improve animal and human well‑being through education, prevention and enforcement programs and humane animal care and control services for the citizens and animals in Leon County.

The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. The Job Description Questionnaire (JDQ) reflects a more detailed description of the position. Neither the job description nor the JDQ constitutes an employment agreement. Both are subject to change as the needs of the County and requirements of the job change.

• Patrol a designated area to locate and impound animals.
• Respond and attempt to resolve citizen complaints concerning animals in violation of the Animal Control Ordinance.
• Conduct Inhumane Care, Animal Cruelty, and Dangerous Animal investigations.
• Educate citizens and dispatch routine service requests, enter information into the database, receive and maintain records and daily logs.

None

Position requires independent judgment. Work involves numerous deadlines and the completion of reports and other records for dissemination. Problem solving is continuous and involves interaction with the public in resolving animal‑related issues and neighborhood disputes. Difficult or analytical thinking is done, for example, when making proper determination when presented with conflicting information or evidence in routine and in determining the appropriate course of action to take when confronted with combative and uncooperative citizens.

Position requires independent judgment in resolving citizen complaints, prioritizing services to the public, addressing competing demands, and the use of discretion in enforcement situations.

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Contacts are with the public, supervisor, co‑workers, other division or program personnel, Leon County Sheriff's Office, Leon County Schools, and Clerk of Court offices.

Personal computer; word processing, animal control dispatch system, and database software, truck; fax; typewriter; animal carriers and nets; two‑way radio systems; cameras, hypodermic needles; et cetera.

Work entails physical effort. These efforts include standing, walking, running, chasing, climbing, and lifting heavy animals. Employee may be exposed to inclement weather, dangerous or diseased animals, and angry citizens.

Knowledge of animal behaviors, breeds and animal handling. Possess customer service skills in both written and verbal communication. Ability to multi task.

This position requires a high school diploma or equivalent and three years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

• Must possess a valid Florida Driver's license and a favorable driving record.
• Must complete the Basic 40‑hour ACO Certification Course within the appropriate timeframe.
• All Leon County employees (regular full‑time and part‑time, OPS, and PRN) are required to work before, during and after a Declared Local State of Emergency (DLSOE). Participation is considered a condition of employment.

At the discretion of the Animal Control Director, employees assigned to the Animal Control Officer class may progress to the Senior Animal Control Officer classification based on knowledge, skills, and abilities, acquired and utilized, performance, and length of time employed. When vacancies occur, employees may be hired as either an Animal Control Officer or a Senior Animal Control Officer, based on level of training and experience.

Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check.

Position is Non‑exempt. Analysis: this is work that involves the enforcement of the Animal Control Ordinances of the County.