Humane Services Officer

Under general supervision, the Humane Services Officer, performs routine duties related to upkeep of animals and the animal shelter and performs related work as required. This position is a tentative "At-Will" appointment and subject to a probationary period of six (6) months from the date of hire. Upon successful completion of a probationary period, a non-management employee shall be granted regular status in the classification in which the probationary period is served. Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is

ILLUSTRATIVE

ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following : Receives stray, roaming, trapped, and relinquished animals; humanely captures and handles animals; ensures all impounded animals are scanned for owner identifiers. Investigates reports of animal bites; check animal records for current rabies vaccinations; impounds unvaccinated biting animals. Delivers, sets, retrieves, and impounds animals in traps; vaccinates all animals upon intake and documents medications used and treatment given to each animal. Administers first aid treatment to injured animals as appropriate; transfers animals to veterinary hospitals for medical emergencies or to laboratories for testing as needed. Performs humane euthanasia in accordance with established policies and procedures; documents sick, injured, and diseased animals. Picks up and properly disposes of dead animals on City streets. Participates in the maintenance of the Animal Control Center; washes floor, cleans food dishes, disinfects kennels, empties litter boxes, and cleans the bathroom and office. Provides care and health evaluations for the animals; feeds and waters animals; treat minor injuries and administers medications; observes animals for disease indicators. Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with City and shelter policies, procedures and safety practices. Inputs data and maintains records related to animal intake and disposition, adoptions, licensing, medical care and vaccinations administered. Performs related duties as assigned or required.

Knowledge of:

Applicable local, State, and Federal laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances. Ordinances, laws and regulations governing the licensing, impounding, care, release, destruction, and disposal of animals. Established standards, methods, procedures, and equipment used in the capture, impounding, care handling, and treatment of animals. Animal habits and characteristics of various breeds of animal and reptiles. Common animal diseases and related symptoms. Work safety policies, procedures, practices, and equipment.

Skill in:

Interacting tactfully and professionally with City staff, outside agencies, and the public. Preparing clear and concise reports. Identifying abnormal animal behaviors and symptoms of disease. Handling and caring for animals in a humane manner. Maintaining accurate records, logs, and technical documents. Following written and verbal instructions. Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships. Communicating effectively both verbally and in writing. Education, Training, and Experience Guidelines High school diploma or GED equivalent AND some previous experience caring for animals; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Must possess a State of Arizona valid driver's license. Must be certified to administer humane euthanasia or obtain certification upon hire.

Work is performed both in the field in all weather conditions and in a standard office environment. May be exposed to animal bites, infectious diseases, hazardous chemicals, and physical exertion on occasion. May be required to frequently lift and move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift weights up to 50 pounds.