Animal Services Cruelty Investigator

$42,007 - $44,107/Yr

Franklin County Government - Louisburg, NC

Full-time - Entry Level

Louisburg, NC

Ambulatory Health Care Services

About the position

The Animal Services Cruelty Investigator is responsible for conducting investigations into reports of animal cruelty and welfare within Franklin County. This role involves enforcing animal care and control laws, collecting evidence, writing reports, and educating the public about animal welfare. The position requires advanced technical skills and knowledge of applicable laws and procedures related to animal care and control, and it is performed under the supervision of the Animal Services Manager.

Responsibilities

• Investigates allegations of animal cruelty, neglect, abuse, and abandonment in potentially hostile environments.
• Enforces state and local animal abuse laws.
• Investigates, analyzes, and evaluates cruelty scenes; interviews and obtains written statements from suspects and witnesses.
• Prepares and issues civil citations.
• Enlists assistance from the Sheriff's office and other law enforcement agencies to prepare and issue state (criminal) citations.
• Conducts legally authorized searches and seizures in conjunction with law enforcement personnel.
• Conducts surveillance as needed.
• Prepares reports and maintains case files of investigations.
• Attends court hearings and trials related to investigations.
• Locates necessary witnesses and subpoenas them on behalf of the County.
• Transports injured animals or animals in violation of County ordinances to the Animal Shelter.
• Performs duties of Animal Control Officer when not investigating cruelty reports, including setting traps.

Requirements

• Graduation from high school or GED; or two years previous experience in animal control, law enforcement, or criminal investigation; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's license.
• Must have or obtain National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA) Certification Levels I and II.
• Must have or obtain National Cruelty Investigator Level I Certification or equivalent.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in criminal investigation
• Ability to make educated and rational decisions
• Ability to compile information for monthly/yearly statistic reports
• Ability to delegate tasks accordingly to provide efficient results
• Working knowledge of methods of capturing and handling animals
• Working knowledge of the care of animals/disease regulations
• General knowledge of the Animal Services Ordinance, federal and state laws pertaining to animals
• Ability to be organized and keep accurate and current records
• Ability to use a rifle and/or shotgun
• Ability to deal tactfully, courteously, and firmly with the public
• Ability to de-escalate irate citizens while maintaining a professional manner
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other employees

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance