Animal Control Officer

Animal Control Officer Mishawaka, IN 46545 $16

• $21 an hour
• Full-time $16
• $21 an hour
• Full-time Animal Control Officer Make a Difference Every Day The Humane Society of St.

Joseph County is seeking a dedicated, compassionate, and professional Animal Control Officer (ACO) to help protect both animals and people throughout our community. Animal Control Officers are often the first responders for animals and community partners in need. Whether assisting a lost pet, investigating animal welfare concerns, responding to emergencies, educating the public, or helping reunite families with their pets, ACOs play a vital role in creating a safer and more humane community. If you are self-motivated, thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy problem-solving, and want a career that makes a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply. Compensation & Benefits Starting wage: $16.00

• 21.

00 per hour, based on experience, certifications, and qualifications Potential wage increases after successful completion of the 90-day probationary period, EBI certification, and NACA certification Comprehensive benefits package available to eligible employees, including employer-paid health insurance, life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage Generous Paid Time Off Veterinary assistance for personal pets Schedule This is a full-time position often exceeding 40 hours a week, requiring a flexible schedule.

ACOs participate in rotating:

Weekday shifts Evening on-call shifts for emergency response coverage Weekends Holidays Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or GED Valid driver's license with a safe driving record Ability to pass a criminal background check Ability to safely lift and handle up to 50 pounds with reasonable accommodation Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions Preferred Qualifications Animal Control experience Animal welfare or shelter experience Law enforcement, military, emergency response, or public safety background Euthanasia by Injection (EBI) certification or willingness to obtain certification required What We're Looking For Successful candidates will possess: Excellent written and verbal communication skills Strong organizational and time-management abilities Professional judgment and problem-solving skills Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team Compassion for animals and people from all backgrounds Ability to remain calm and professional during stressful or emotionally charged situations Strong attention to detail and accurate recordkeeping skills

ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Animal Control & Field Operations Respond to calls involving stray, injured, sick, dangerous, neglected, or abused animals Patrol assigned service areas and safely transport animals to the shelter Investigate animal bites, cruelty complaints, and ordinance violations Enforce local animal control ordinances and applicable state laws Issue warnings, notices, and citations when necessary Testify at Animal Control Commission hearings and other proceedings as required Assist with animal quarantines, impoundments, and emergency situations Work cooperatively with local law enforcement agencies and first responders Educate the public regarding responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and community resources Respond to emergency animal control calls during assigned on-call hours Animal Care & Shelter Operations Perform animal intake procedures, including health assessments and vaccinations Provide humane handling and care for domestic animals, wildlife, and livestock Monitor animals for signs of illness, injury, or behavioral concerns Maintain clean and sanitary kennels, cages, vehicles, and workspaces Assist with humane euthanasia procedures when certified and authorized Administrative Responsibilities Maintain accurate records, reports, and case documentation Utilize shelter software and mobile technology to document activities and investigations Communicate professionally with citizens, veterinary professionals, government officials, staff, volunteers, and community partners Answer phones, respond to inquiries, and provide customer service Assist with educational programs, tours, community outreach events, and adoption events Working Environment This position combines field work and shelter work and may involve exposure to: Extreme weather conditions Animal-related injuries, bites, and scratches Zoonotic diseases and parasites Loud noise levels Animal cruelty investigations Euthanasia procedures Emotionally challenging situations involving injured, neglected, or deceased animals The successful candidate must be comfortable working with a wide variety of species, including dogs, cats, wildlife, pocket pets, livestock, reptiles, waterfowl, and birds of prey. Why Join Our Team? For more than 125 years, the Humane Society of St. Joseph County has served as a leader in animal welfare and public safety. Our team is committed to protecting animals, supporting pet owners, and strengthening the human-animal bond throughout our community. If you're looking for meaningful work where no two days are the same and your efforts directly improve lives, we'd love to hear from you. The Humane Society of St. Joseph County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Pay:

$16.00

• $21.

00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Uniform allowance Vision insurance Application Question(s): Are you currently living within St. Joseph County, IN or plan to be within the next 30 days? Are you able and willing to work evenings on-call, weekends, and holidays?

License/Certification:

Driver's License (Required)

Work Location:

In person