Animal Protection Officer

Patrols the City, enforces animal protection ordinances, responds to calls about stray or dangerous animals, investigates cruelty allegations and educates the public. This position serves as the City's primary contact for all wildlife and domestic animal concerns, advising the public on responsible pet ownership, safety and appropriate methods for addressing nuisance animals. The officer inspects animals for signs of injury or disease and transports sick or injured animals to appropriate care facilities.

TYPICAL QUALIFICATIONS

KNOWLEDGE:

Federal, State and local statutes and ordinances; proper principles and procedures of animal protection; office operation and procedures.

SKILL:

Demonstrated skill in the operation of equipment necessary to perform the functions of the job; detail oriented and accurate when writing reports, issuing warnings, filling out forms and maintaining records.

ABILITY:

Handle animals effectively and perform physical tasks associated with the assignments; observe and reason through various situations; remember facts and details; enforce the law; read and interpret ordinance and other information; prepare complete and accurate forms and maintain records; communicate effectively orally and in writing; maintain effective working relationships with other employees; deal with potentially dangerous situations when encountered by irate individuals, sick or dangerous animals.

TRAINING

High School diploma or equivalent is required and six (6) months or more of training beyond High School.

EXPERIENCE

One (1) year of progressively responsible experience in working with animals; or a combination of experience and education that results in the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is required; preference for certifications on basic animal handling training and animal welfare, and specialized training in animal cruelty investigations. Must be certified or obtain Wildlife Euthanasia Certification within 6 months of hire.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following duties are illustrative only and are not intended to be all inclusive:

• Patrols the City, finding, apprehending, and impounding stray/at-large animals; responds to and investigates complaints of stray animals, animal cruelty/neglect, and animal nuisances; issues warnings/summonses when necessary.
• Performs minor maintenance and care of assigned department vehicle including fuel, fluid checks, and cleaning.
• Provides information to citizens and visitors and creates a positive public image to improve community relations for the City and Police Department.
• Serves as the City's contact for all wildlife and domestic questions and concerns; advises public on safety and viable options for removal of nuisance animals.
• Prepares field and counter reports as directed. Assists in directing traffic and aiding motor vehicle owners as needed.
• Inspects animals for vaccination and proper registration (licensing); examines animals for injuries or disease.

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