Community Service Officer

Performs a variety of working-level surveillance and enforcement duties related to the enforcement of local nuisance laws and ordinances, animal welfare, and parking enforcement duties.

Essential functions include, but are not limited to the following: Investigates local code violations and enforces local codes regarding nuisances and noise as detailed in Chapter 11 and 13 of the Municipal Code. This includes, but is not limited to, junk and abandoned vehicles, weeds, brush and rubbish, structural hazards, animal control, and prohibited noise, and takes necessary enforcement actions according to the department's policy and procedures. Patrols the corporate limits of the Town to detect and identify violators of municipal nuisance ordinances including vehicle owners, property owners, businesses, and residents. Informs citizens of ordinance violations and issues written notices of violations. Documents all situations and actions taken by the officer or property owner. Investigates local code violations and enforces local codes regarding parking violations as detailed in the Model Traffic Code detailed in Chapter 18 of the Municipal Code. Maintains knowledge of Town ordinances and laws as well as department and Town of Pagosa Springs policies and procedures. Maintains knowledge of Police Department policies and procedures. Research property ownership using maps, assessor GIS records or by other means necessary. Prepares detailed code enforcement investigative reports, takes photographs, and follows up on cases. Issues citations and summons for failure to comply with pertinent laws, ordinances, and/or codes. Enforces Town ordinances and state laws relating to animal control and welfare as detailed in Chapter 4 of the Municipal Code. Investigates reports of animals at large, cruelty, and neglect. When necessary, captures at large animals and transport them to the animal shelter. If the situation warrants, issues summons to appear in court, and transports animals for medical attention. Mediates neighborhood disputes over animal issues. Provides information to and educates the public concerning the well-being of pets and livestock. Removes dead animals, when necessary, from public roadways. Appears in municipal court to testify relative to the investigation and charging of individuals with offenses. Consistently provides professional and responsive customer service to internal and external customers including but not limited to effectively listening and communicating, providing accurate information, offering solutions, assisting in resolution, and ensuring timely follow-up as needed. Takes proper safety precautions, anticipates unsafe circumstances, and acts accordingly to prevent accidents or injuries. Performs related duties as required. Education and Experience Graduation from high school or GED plus sufficient training to demonstrate an aptitude and ability to perform above and related duties AND one (1) year of work experience preferably in a field related to above duties, OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. Knowledge, Skills, Interests and Abilities Working knowledge of administrative practices, state and local regulations governing animal control programs; basic public relations principles, methods, practices, and procedures; and interpersonal communication methods. Some knowledge of computerized management information systems; personal computers and various applications for work processing, data management, and spreadsheet operations. Skills in record keeping and report writing. Ability to deal effectively with stress related to public safety employment; deal effectively with the public in hostile interactions; maintain accurate records; be firm and courteous with the public; develop effective working relationships with supervisors, fellow employees, and the public; use discretion and good judgment; follow written and verbal instruction; operate a two-way radio and understand common radio code; learn quickly the laws, ordinances, and regulations governing animal control, parking enforcement and code enforcement; communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.