Animal Control Officer

Ingham County•Mason, MI

About The Position

Works for Ingham County Animal Control and Shelter under the general supervision of the Deputy Director. Responds to citizen calls for service within Ingham County regarding animal welfare and animal-related public safety issues. Performs criminal investigations and dog license enforcement, and captures and transports animals to the County Shelter. The officer may also be assigned Animal Care Specialist duties in the event of a staff shortage. The listed duties describe the general nature and level of the work and are not an exhaustive list.

Requirements

Associate degree or two years of college equivalent in criminal justice, law enforcement, or corrections.
Certification, or ability to become certified, as an Animal Control Officer through the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
No prior felony convictions.
Valid Michigan driver’s license that can be maintained.
Ability to pass a background check.
Effective communication skills, including the ability to engage, interact, and work with all individuals to ensure clarity and understanding.
Ability to work responsibly independently and perform the required tasks.
Ability to communicate verbally and effectively by listening and giving information, directions, and commands in person and over law enforcement radio channels.
Ability to write reports, citations, and general court summonses.
Ability to make a physical arrest when necessary.
Ability to pull, lift, and carry up to 150 pounds and push weights up to 200 pounds.
Ability to bend, squat, climb ladders, stairs, and fences, and walk or run over varied terrain while pursuing and capturing animals.
Ability to drive and work outdoors in all types of Michigan weather conditions.
Ability to work shifts that may include days, evenings, weekends, and on-call schedules.
Ability to work around unsanitary conditions, odors, fumes, loud noises, animals that may bite or scratch, livestock that may cause injury during handling, and deceased animals and persons.
Ability to perform the essential functions of the position, with reasonable accommodations available for otherwise qualified applicants.

Nice To Haves

Prior public safety experience is preferred.
Previous experience handling animals is desired.

Responsibilities

Respond to citizen requests for service and document incidents when necessary.
Conduct initial and follow-up investigations into crimes involving animals.
Prepare and execute search warrants for criminal investigations.
Gather and document evidence, including photographs, video recordings, and other information.
Capture and impound animals involved in public safety threats or law and ordinance violations.
Issue summonses and prepare warrant requests for violations of Michigan law and County ordinances.
Sell dog licenses on behalf of the Ingham County Treasurer’s Office and collect fees.
Assist local and neighboring agencies with animal-related issues upon request.
Transport animals to other animal welfare organizations as needed.
Prepare police reports, daily activity logs, and other important documentation.
Attend court, on or off duty, when required by subpoena.
Attend and participate in department-authorized training.
Work mandatory overtime when directed by a supervisor.
Participate in community events and community engagement.
Process animals into the Shelter, including administering vaccinations and medications.
Document relevant animal information and coordinate with veterinary staff to examine sick or injured animals.
Train incoming animal control officers and document training efforts.
Perform euthanasia of animals as necessary.
Perform other duties as assigned, including Animal Care Specialist duties when staffing shortages require.