Animal Control Officer

City of Charlotte•Safford, AZ

1d•$24 - $29

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Animal Control Officer is responsible for enforcing local and state animal control laws to ensure the safety of the public and the humane treatment of animals. Officers respond to a wide variety of calls, including cases of cruelty, neglect, and aggressive or stray animals. This position requires strong communication, independent judgment, and the ability to work in high-stress and emotionally charged environments. Officers may be required to work varying shifts, weekends, and holidays.

Requirements

Knowledge of applicable state and local laws governing animal care and control
Familiarity with court procedures, regulations, and compliance requirements
Safe handling techniques for both small and large domestic and wild animals
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Proficient in basic computer operations and clerical systems (e.g., recordkeeping, data entry)
Ability to work independently using sound judgment in urgent and stressful situations
Strong customer service skills with sensitivity to diverse populations
Capable of following detailed procedures and conveying information clearly
Adaptability to changing environments and ability to manage multiple responsibilities
Ability to work rotating shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
High school diploma or GED
One (1) year of related experience in animal care, enforcement, or a public-facing service role
Must possess a valid North Carolina or South Carolina Driver’s License
Must be able to successfully pass all pre-employment screenings
Must complete NACA ACO I Certification program within 6 months of hire
Ability to sit, stand, climb, walk, crouch, stoop, squat, crawl, push, and pull
Light to moderate lifting and carrying; may lift heavy animals or equipment
Adequate vision, hearing, and speech to perform essential duties
Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
Exposure to loud noise, hazardous materials, contagious diseases, and aggressive animals
Work includes interaction with upset or distressed community members
Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and masks may be required
Must comply with OSHA safety standards

Responsibilities

Respond to calls from the public regarding animal-related incidents including cruelty, neglect, strays, or attacks
Investigate animal cruelty and neglect cases, gather evidence, and prepare documentation for prosecution
Enforce local and state animal control laws through warnings or citations
Capture and transport stray, injured, aggressive, or abandoned animals
Testify in court proceedings related to animal cruelty or ordinance violations
Provide food, water, and basic care for animals in CMACC custody
Clean and maintain animal transport vehicles, equipment, and facilities
Educate the public on responsible pet ownership and animal control ordinances
Maintain detailed records of impoundments, investigations, and animal outcomes
Respond to inquiries from the public about animal laws, shelter services, or animal care
Conduct inspections of animal-related establishments for licensing or ordinance compliance
Perform other duties as assigned