Animal Services Officer

Animal Services Officer Columbia County, GA - 3.3 Evans, GA Job Details Full-time $18.72 an hour 2 days ago Qualifications High school diploma or GED Driver's License Full Job Description Job Details Job ID #2400 Category Animal Services Status Open Full Time/Grade 17 Salary $18.72 Per Hour/Cell Allowance, $720.00 Annually Posted April 17, 2026 10:20 AM Closing Open Until Filled Tools

POSITION SUMMARY

This position is responsible for the care, welfare, and control of stray, injured, neglected, and dangerous animals, as well as enforcing County ordinances and State animal related laws. The work directly impacts public safety, animal well-being, and the experience of citizens and pet owners interacting with the department. Animal Control Officers apply and enforce chapter 14 of the Columbia County Code of Ordinances, which outlines the standards for impoundment, detention, and, when necessary, humane euthanasia as authorized by the Animal Services Manager. Work is reviewed upon completion to ensure compliance with departmental procedures and all applicable legal requirements. The position requires frequent walking, standing, running, bending, stooping, crouching, and lifting of both light and heavy objects and animals. Officers must regularly perform strenuous physical tasks, including repeated lifting of animals or equipment exceeding 80 pounds, climbing steps, and working in awkward or confined positions. Work is performed indoors and outdoors in noisy, hot, cold, and inclement weather conditions. The incumbent may be exposed to hazardous environments, aggressive animals, and potential infectious or zoonotic diseases. A high school diploma or equivalent is required. No prior experience is necessary to perform the basic duties of the position. NACA (National Animal Control Association) Certification is preferred. A valid driver's license is required.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

Works independently with minimal supervision; organizes daily tasks and prioritizes workload effectively. Responds to calls for service involving domestic animals and certain wildlife; investigates concerns related to animal care, welfare, nuisance issues, and public safety. Provides courteous, knowledgeable customer service and educates the public on responsible pet ownership, animal care standards, and applicable laws. Captures unconfined animals and impounds stray, injured, confined, or deceased animals as required. Enforces County ordinances and State laws related to animal welfare, care, and control in a fair, professional, and service oriented manner. Prepares thorough, factual reports and maintains accurate records, files, and documentation. Maintains clean, sanitary, and properly functioning equipment, tools, vehicles and work areas. Performs or assists with humane euthanasia and medical treatment procedures as trained and authorized. Handles animals safely and humanely in accordance with training, safety standards, and established protocols. Provides supplemental sanitation support within the animal shelter as needed or assigned. Uses a computer to prepare reports, enter case information, and maintain accurate animal records. Enters all case reports and animal information into the database; applies the elements of violations to appropriately charge offenders when necessary. Conducts thorough investigations of animal bites, dangerous animal incidents, and other significant animal-related cases. Completes enforcement related paperwork, notices, citations, and supporting documentation. Testifies in court proceedings and presents evidence related to investigations conducted. Consults with a supervisor when clarification on policy, procedure, or enforcement decisions is needed. Receives, dispatches, and responds to calls using proper communication protocols and radio equipment. Maintains a safe and responsible driving record. Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of County and State animal-related laws, ordinances, and departmental procedures. Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with citizens, coworkers, and partner agencies. Ability to apply common-sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to exercise sound judgment when evaluating situations involving animals, citizens, and public safety. Ability to follow standard procedures and regulations when performing assigned duties. Ability to make decisions and take appropriate action on a variety of assignments requiring analysis and independent judgment. Ability to become certified to perform humane euthanasia and assist with medical procedures as required. Ability to perform each essential duty satisfactorily, including the physical requirements of the position.

DESIRABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or equivalent is required. No prior experience required to perform the basic tasks of the position. NACA (National Animal Control Association) Certification preferred. A valid driver's license is required. A combination of education and/or work experience may be substituted for minimum requirements.