About the position
The Animal Control Officer I position is an entry-level role within the Animal Control Officer series, designed for individuals who are learning to coordinate and perform various animal control and compliance functions. Under immediate supervision, the officer will engage in activities such as patrolling assigned areas, monitoring and enforcing animal control regulations, and responding to inquiries and complaints from the public. The role involves issuing citations and warnings, as well as performing public safety and health duties related to animals. This position is crucial for ensuring compliance with local and state animal control laws and ordinances, and it provides a pathway for advancement to the Animal Control Officer II classification, contingent upon meeting performance and qualification standards. The responsibilities of the Animal Control Officer I include investigating reports of animal cruelty, patrolling city streets and neighborhoods to monitor and manage stray or dangerous animals, and educating the public about animal control laws and owner responsibilities. Officers will learn to safely operate specialized equipment, including tranquilizers and firearms, and will be trained in the humane euthanasia of animals when necessary. The position requires a commitment to customer service, as officers will interact with the public and community volunteers, providing information and assistance regarding animal care and control. Candidates must be prepared to work in various environmental conditions, including outdoor settings and potentially unsanitary environments. The role may involve dealing with aggressive animals and emotionally distressed individuals, requiring a strong ability to handle conflict and maintain professionalism. Successful candidates will undergo a thorough background investigation and must meet specific qualifications, including obtaining necessary certifications during their probationary period. This position is essential for maintaining public safety and animal welfare within the community.
Responsibilities
- Learn to investigate reports of animal cruelty, nuisances, and potentially dangerous animals.
- Patrol City streets, neighborhoods, and/or other designated areas to monitor, remove, transport, and locate stray, vicious, trapped, injured, and/or dead animals.
- Rescue and impound stray animals.
- Use remote chemical immobilization equipment.
- Vaccinate, photograph, and process impounded animals prior to kenneling.
- Transport injured animals to veterinary hospitals for treatment.
- Assist law enforcement personnel and other agencies by taking animals into custody due to emergencies, arrests, and/or police investigations.
- Enforce City and State laws, regulations, and ordinances related to animal control.
- Compile case evidence and prepare animal control cases for court.
- Educate and provide the public with information regarding animal control laws, licensing requirements, owner responsibilities, and appropriate animal care.
- Maintain and safeguard assigned equipment and supplies such as citation books, computers, controlled substances, and animal control vehicles.
- Operate a computer and a two-way radio to maintain close communication with dispatching personnel.
- Prepare and maintain a variety of animal control records, documentation, and reports.
- Provide courteous and professional customer service to those contacted in the course of work.
Requirements
- Six months of experience in animal care or control.
- Possession of a High School diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.
- Possession of a valid California Class C Driver License at the time of appointment.
- Must possess or obtain the State of California Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Penal Code 832 Certificate during probationary period and throughout the course of employment.
- Must possess or obtain the American Red Cross Standard First Aid Certificate during probationary period and throughout the course of employment.
Nice-to-haves
- Bilingual skills may be beneficial for communication with diverse community members.
Benefits
- Bilingual pay options for operational necessity.
- Participation in the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS).
- Equal opportunity employment policies.
