Animal Control Officer I
About The Position
This position performs protective, preventive, investigative, and beginning-level administrative work to enforce animal control laws within the county. Trainee appointments may be considered. The role receives and cares for animals at the Jackson County Animal Shelter (JCAS), maintains associated animal, bite-case, fee, and medical records, and assists with animal adoptions, vaccination, treatment, and transport. The position also enforces county and state animal-control requirements through patrols and investigations, responds to animal-related complaints, and works with the public and community organizations. The position is scheduled for 40 hours per week, with the current schedule determined by department needs and supervisor approval. It is on call for after-hours emergencies and outbreaks, and requires night and weekend work when necessary. During public health emergencies, the employee may be required to work extended hours and long shifts.
Requirements
- High school graduation or equivalent.
- One year of experience as an Animal Control Officer, security officer, or in a related law-enforcement role, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
- Valid North Carolina driver's license.
- Comprehensive knowledge of county and state laws relating to animal and rabies control.
- Thorough knowledge of animal collection and disposal methods.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and deal tactfully with a wide range of public contacts while enforcing applicable laws and ordinances.
- Fundamental knowledge of animal health and behavior and ability to administer required medications, vaccinations, and tests.
- Certification in rabies vaccination, euthanasia, and animal-cruelty investigations.
Nice To Haves
- Certified Euthanasia Technician (CET).
- Certified Rabies Vaccinator (CRV).
- Certified National Animal Control Association (NACA).
Responsibilities
- Receive animals into the JCAS and complete the associated documentation.
- Supervise daily preparation and maintenance of records for animals impounded or released, animal-bite cases, and collected fees and fines.
- Release animals to their owners and arrange adoption of unclaimed animals.
- Vaccinate animals, perform medical tests, administer necessary medications, and document treatment accurately in animal medical records as required by state law.
- Assist the local humane society with transporting animals to spay/neuter clinics and transport animals to local veterinarians for treatment and health checks before transfers.
- Assign work duties to volunteers and community service workers assigned to the JCAS.
- Enforce the Jackson County Dog Control Ordinance and North Carolina statutes concerning animal and rabies control by patrolling the county, locating unvaccinated and stray animals, and issuing warnings for violations.
- Pick up stray and at-large animals to reduce the overpopulation of unwanted animals within the jurisdiction.
- Vaccinate animals against rabies and perform euthanasia on sick and unwanted animals.
- Investigate animal-bite complaints and take required steps to ensure confinement under state law.
- Capture or destroy animals suspected of being rabid and arrange shipment for laboratory analysis.
- Investigate animal-nuisance complaints and take appropriate abatement steps when justified.
- Maintain food and supply inventories and order necessary equipment, medical supplies, and cleaning supplies.
- Meet with community organizations to discuss services and develop cooperation between the JCAS and the public.
- Establish and maintain good relations with community members, humane organizations, and private veterinary groups on behalf of the shelter and county government.
- Assist with animal shelter operations, including animal care and feeding, arranging adoptions, and cleaning and maintaining animal cages.
- Participate in public health preparedness activities as directed by agency management and work as needed during public health emergencies.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor, Health Director, Deputy Health Director, or Environmental Health Director.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
