Animal Control Officer (Sworn)
About The Position
Performs general law enforcement duties, including patrol, response to calls for service, and investigations, with a primary focus on animal control and welfare. Responsibilities include protecting animal welfare, ensuring public safety, and promoting positive community engagement. This position performs sworn law enforcement duties with a specialized focus on animal control within the Police Department’s Support Services Division. Responsibilities include investigating animal cruelty, neglect, and abuse; enforcing applicable laws and ordinances; and supporting general law enforcement operations. Duties also include patrol, traffic enforcement, accident and criminal investigations, service of legal process, and response to domestic incidents. The employee must maintain a visible presence, exercise sound judgment, and interact professionally with the public. Work involves inherent hazards associated with law enforcement. This position operates under the supervision of a sergeant and is evaluated based on performance, initiative, and effectiveness. Work is reviewed through observation and written reports.
Requirements
- Working knowledge of modern law enforcement practices and procedures
- Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws and ordinances
- Skill in the use of firearms and law enforcement equipment
- Ability to respond effectively in emergency situations
- Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Medium physical exertion, including lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally, 20 pounds frequently, and 10 pounds constantly.
- Visual acuity for reading, report writing, and computer use.
- Ability to apply appropriate physical force, including deadly force if necessary.
- Graduation from high school or GED equivalency
- Valid North Carolina Driver’s License (for entry into class)
- Must have the ability to obtain (and maintain) Basic Law Enforcement Certification (BLET) as a law enforcement officer by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Standards Commission (required to be continuously employed).
- U.S citizen
- Possess a valid driver’s license
- At least 20 years of age
- Possess a high school diploma or GED
- Possess a NC Basic Law Enforcement Training Certification
Nice To Haves
- Experience in animal control / law enforcement work is desired
- Associate’s degree in criminal justice or relevant field
- Candidates to possess current law enforcement certification through the North Carolina Criminal Justice Standards Commission
Responsibilities
- Investigates reports of animal cruelty, neglect, and abuse; enforces applicable laws and ordinances
- Captures, impounds, and arranges safe disposition of stray, injured, or dangerous animals
- Educates the public on responsible pet ownership and animal-related laws
- Coordinates with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission on wildlife-related matters
- Assists with special events, emergency response, and disaster operations
- Collaborates with Patrol, CID, and Special Operations units
- Conducts routine patrol in assigned areas
- Responds to calls for service and community concerns
- Investigates traffic accidents and enforces traffic laws
- Serves warrants, subpoenas, and other legal documents
- Conducts criminal investigations, including evidence collection and witness interviews
- Performs vehicle inspections to ensure operational readiness
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
