Animal Caretaker

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service•Nogales, AZ

About The Position

The Animal Caretaker (ACT) is based at the NDDTC. The Field Canine Handler travels with canines to field locations and assists Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) Officers with inspections and patrols. The role includes applying prescribed canine training practices, supporting inspections in varied settings, referring findings to PPQ officials, participating in patrols, and ensuring the care and welfare of canines.

Requirements

Must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. national.
Individuals born male after December 31, 1959, must be registered with Selective Service or exempt.
Must receive satisfactory adjudication of a background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
Must successfully complete a one-year probationary period unless previously served.
Must use direct deposit for federal payments.
Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
Must have a valid state driver's license at the time of application.
Must enroll in Continuous Vetting.
Must demonstrate training and experience of sufficient scope and quality to perform the duties; answers to vacancy-specific questions must be supported by resume experience.

Responsibilities

Apply prescribed canine training theory and practices to establish or modify canine behaviors.
Assist PPQ Officers with inspections of commodities and conveyances in traditional and non-traditional settings using a canine partner.
Refer findings to PPQ officials.
Participate in patrol duties in the assigned area alongside a canine partner or unit.
Ensure canines are kenneled, maintained, and cared for according to Animal Welfare Act standards.
Assist the supervisor in monitoring and allocating canine diets based on factors such as age, species, current diet, special needs, sex, breeding, and training status.
Restrain dogs during blood sample processing, identification verification, temporary marking, temperature procurement, travel preparation, and general veterinary examinations.