Quarantine Animal Caretaker

This posting is for the State of Hawaii, Department of Agriculture & Biosecurity, Animal Industry Division, Animal Quarantine Branch, Animal Quarantine Operations, Animal Care Unit.

The position is located on the Island of Oahu.

This recruitment is for a temporary, 89-day hire. $29.09 per hour, shift work and overtime may be required. No benefits.

The Animal Quarantine Operations Section cares for dogs, cats and related carnivores that are subject to confinement in compliance with Hawaii’s rabies quarantine laws to prevent the entry of rabies; assures efficient movement of dogs and cats: entering, transiting through, and releasing from quarantine; purchases, stocks and disburses equipment and supplies; assists the Animal Disease Control Branch in the handling of livestock for the purpose of inspections and testing;

assists the Import Receiving and Compliance Section by housing and caring for animals under investigation or held as evidence.

The Animal Care Unit provides daily feeding and care for dogs and cats quarantined to prevent the entry of rabies into the State. Observes and monitors animals under quarantine for signs of rabies and other illnesses.

The primary purpose of this position is to perform functions related to the handling, care and observation of animals confined in kennels, catteries, or corrals. This position may be assigned to the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility, Animal Quarantine Station, or other assigned areas within the state and assignment location may change due to changes in workload.

Knowledge of correct and safe methods and techniques in the care, handling and restraining of common domestic animals; correct custodial practices in caring for animals; symptoms of rabies and other illnesses in animals, quarantine station rules, regulations, policies and procedures; and arithmetic.

Ability to follow oral and written instructions; use simple machines and hand tools common to semi-skilled occupations; operate light power and /or motorized equipment, i.e., electric cart, scale, sprayer, steam cleaner, etc.; perform manual and repetitive work; make simple observations; record data accurately; communicate effectively in writing and orally; deal effectively and work with others in a team atmosphere.

Ability to come to work regularly and on time; follow directions; take constructive criticism and suggestions; get along with co-workers and supervisors; treat co-workers, supervisors and the public with respect and courtesy; and refrain from abusive, insubordinate and/or violent behavior.

• Valid license to drive in the State of Hawaii.
• In accordance with Federal regulations, persons who are being considered for employment in positions which require unescorted access to secured areas at the airport must undergo a pre-employment fingerprint-based criminal history record check. In order to be granted the Security Identification Display Area (SIDA) clearance, prospective employees must not have been convicted, or found "not guilty by reason of insanity," of a disqualifying criminal offense within 10 years from the date of the application.
  
  Upon recommendation for hire, prospective employees will be required to successfully undergo the fingerprint-based criminal history record check and be found free of disqualifying convictions during the preceding ten years. The cost for the records check will be the applicant's responsibility.
• Pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 127A-8, all state and county officials, officers, and employees are considered “emergency workers” and shall perform functions as determined by their respective state or county department director during emergencies or disasters.
• May be required to work rotating shifts including nights, weekends, holidays, extended shifts, and alternative schedules. May be required to work overtime.
• This position is required to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds unassisted and over 50 pounds assisted by another person and/or use of equipment (e.g., hoisting equipment, hand truck).
• Must be able to work in conditions common to livestock production facilities, harbors and…