Animal Care Tech I

Pasco County•Land O' Lakes, FL

About The Position

The Animal Care Tech I cares for impounded animals and interacts with the general public, using tactful and courteous communication. Most work takes place in the animal shelter, with approximately 65% of time spent working with animals, 30% dealing with the public, and 5% on paperwork and other duties. The position includes shelter and kennel upkeep, animal care, public assistance, and related tasks. Employees must be able to physically control highly active or aggressive animals, potentially weighing more than 80 pounds, using available equipment. They must be available for call and may be required to work before, during, or after emergencies, including temporarily performing duties outside their normal scope, location, or schedule. A valid Florida driver's license is required, and Florida certification as a Euthanasia Technician must be obtained within six months of hire. Pasco County BOCC requires pre-employment drug/alcohol testing.

Requirements

High school graduation or an acceptable equivalency diploma.
Six months of experience handling animals or performing custodial duties in an animal-related profession, such as a grooming facility, animal training business, veterinary facility, boarding kennel, or private or public animal shelter.
Valid Florida driver's license.
Must obtain Florida Certification as a Euthanasia Technician within six months of hire.
Must have and maintain a working telephone because the employee is subject to call.
Ability to physically control highly active or aggressive animals, potentially weighing in excess of 80 pounds, using available equipment.
Ability to bend, stretch, stoop, kneel, reach, and climb frequently.
Ability to communicate effectively using verbal, written, and visual communication.
Ability to gain knowledge of laws relating to animal control and learn and retain information concerning Animal Services Ordinances.
Ability to establish and maintain working relationships with the public and fellow employees.
Ability to make mature judgments and work independently.
Ability to learn different animal breeds and identify common animal diseases.
Knowledge of the principles and objectives of animal control, and ability to support and apply them.
Ability to operate a vehicle.
Ability to project a neat and professional appearance.
Ability to apply quality written and oral communication skills and read for comprehension.

Responsibilities

Clean and maintain kennels in a sanitary manner.
Perform minor maintenance work on buildings and grounds.
Feed, water, and observe animals held in the kennel.
Report suspected animal illness or injuries to the supervisor.
Assist with euthanasia of predetermined animals and cremation of animal carcasses.
Provide accurate information to the public.
Assist in the shelter office and prepare required paperwork.
Answer telephones and take citizens' complaints when needed.
Perform related work as required.
Work before, during, or after emergencies and, as needed, perform duties outside the normal scope of the position, location, or work schedule.