Animal Control Officer

Animal Control Officer

Pay Grade 6, Pay Range: $47,991.00

The purpose of this classification is to enforce Animal Control ordinances, answer inquiries and promote public relations by performing the following duties. This position works under the supervision of the Special Operations Division Commander or his designee. This position has limited supervisory functions.

• Patrol streets to locate stray animals and promptly capture animals and transport them to an animal shelter.
• Respond to complaints concerning animal problems or violations of animal control ordinances, including but not limited to animals running at large, bites, property damage, or injuries.
• Remove dead, injured or dangerous animals from streets and residential premises.
• Care for, and feed animals in department’s temporary kennels.
• Perform and assist with euthanasia.
• Investigate violations of animal controls ordinances and issue warnings or citations as required.
• Appear in court to testify regarding animal control cases. Work closely with public interest groups and businesses to promote improved care and control of animals.
• Coordinate a public relations program in order to foster public awareness of ordinances regarding animal controls and humane treatment of animals.
• Process a variety of documentation associated with department/division operations, within designated time frames and per established procedures: receive and review various documentation; review, complete, process, forward or retain as appropriate; prepare or complete various forms, reports, correspondence, and other documentation; compile data for further processing or for use in preparation of department reports; and maintain computerized and/or hardcopy records.
• Operate a personal computer to enter, retrieve, review or modify data, utilizing word processing, spreadsheet, database, Internet, e‑mail, or other software; and operate general office or other equipment as necessary to complete essential functions.
• Operate or use various equipment associated with animal control and law enforcement in order to complete work assignments.
• Communicate with supervisor, other employees, the public, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems.

Other related duties as assigned.

High School Diploma or GED equivalent required. Background in law enforcement or animal control experience preferred; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Proficiency in operating the tools and equipment listed below. Ability to learn the applicable laws, ordinances, and department rules and regulations. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing, ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, peers, supervisors and the public.

Ability to exercise sound judgment in evaluating situations and in making decisions. Ability to follow verbal and written instructions; ability to meet the special requirements listed below as well as the ability to learn City geography.

• Must possess and maintain a valid South Carolina driver’s license throughout employment.
• Euthanasia Certification within 12 months.
• National Animal Control Academy (Levels 1 and
  2) certification or equivalent preferred.

Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in performance of the essential functions and learn, comprehend, and apply all City or departmental policies, practices, and procedures necessary to function effectively in the position.

Animal patrol vehicle, animal capture equipment, police radio, baton, handcuffs, first aid equipment.

• Data Utilization: Requires the ability to review, classify, categorize, prioritize, and/or analyze data. Includes exercising discretion in determining data classification, and in referencing such analysis to established standards for the purpose of recognizing actual or probable…