Animal Control Officer

The British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA)•Castlegar, BC

6d•CA$30 - CA$30•Onsite

About The Position

The Animal Control Officer (ACO) is primarily responsible for enforcing municipal bylaws as per the municipal contracts in the assigned area. The ACO is to ensure public (people and animal) safety and improve the welfare of animals through education of BC SPCA animal management best practices and protocols. In addition, this position also gives support to other team members as required. These priorities may vary between locations and shifts.

Requirements

Grade 12 education
Completion of Bylaw Level 1
Completion of Langara College Animal Control Course
1-2 years’ related experience
Working hands-on with animals in a veterinary clinic, animal care facility, animal control setting, or other care/training facility
Managing and diffusing conflict
Record-keeping
Valid BC class 5 driver’s license in good standing and driver’s abstract
Ability to reduce risk by making decisions in the field that ensure public and personal safety
Ability to multi-task various priority tasks
Ability to prepare and present evidence and to conduce oneself professionally in court
Knowledge of the care and handling of animals; able to successfully manipulate the equipment used in animal handling
Ability to understand and effectively carry out oral and written instructions
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
Ability to meet the public in a diplomatic, tactful and discreet manner and to establish and maintain good relationships with stakeholders
Physical ability to lift, pull, and push heavy objects as well as handle aggressive animals
Sound knowledge of animals, their breeds, characteristics, and more common diseases
Ability to work co-operatively as a team player and demonstrate well-developed interpersonal skills
Basic computer skills sufficient to deal effectively with the necessary front office routines
Ability to prioritize demands on time and work with limited supervision
Philosophical harmony with the vision, mission, and strategic directions of the BC SPCA.

Responsibilities

Treats all animals humanely, with compassion and concern, and upholding these values both on and off the job.
Following BC SPCA standards, policies, and protocols at all times to ensure animal health and welfare.
Provides exceptional customer service to internal stakeholders and the public.
Assists with training and mentoring of other staff.
Provides guidance and direction to volunteers as requested.
Assists colleagues when they are in need, including being proactive in identifying ways to collaborate with them to meet or exceed operational requirements.
Ensures that safe work practices are implemented as per the BC SPCA Health and Safety protocols and are being carried out to protect staff, volunteers and animals from injury and/or illness
Investigates and resolves animal bylaw-related complaints as per municipal contract(s) and in keeping with BC SPCA policy/procedure/standards.
Conducts routine patrols of assigned areas (e.g. parks).
Issues dog licenses to members of the public, collects payment and issues receipt.
Completes animal transport duties
Ensures all records related to any and all of the above duties are kept up to date, including documenting pertinent information, completing required forms and reports, including those that may be used in the prosecution of offences.
Works collaboratively with other stakeholders such as government representatives, police, special provincial constables, and other enforcement agencies to ensure animal welfare and public safety in the community.
Responds to other calls and completing other related duties as assigned.