Animal Protection Officer

Lafayette•Lafayette, CO

16h•Onsite

About The Position

Patrols the City, enforces animal protection ordinances, responds to calls about stray or dangerous animals, investigates cruelty allegations and educates the public. This position serves as the City’s primary contact for all wildlife and domestic animal concerns, advising the public on responsible pet ownership, safety and appropriate methods for addressing nuisance animals. The officer inspects animals for signs of injury or disease and transports sick or injured animals to appropriate care facilities.

Requirements

High School diploma or equivalent
Six (6) months or more of training beyond High School
One (1) year of progressively responsible experience in working with animals
Demonstrated skill in the operation of equipment necessary to perform the functions of the job
Detail oriented and accurate when writing reports, issuing warnings, filling out forms and maintaining records
Ability to handle animals effectively and perform physical tasks associated with the assignments
Ability to observe and reason through various situations
Ability to remember facts and details
Ability to enforce the law
Ability to read and interpret ordinance and other information
Ability to prepare complete and accurate forms and maintain records
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing
Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other employees
Ability to deal with potentially dangerous situations when encountered by irate individuals, sick or dangerous animals
Must possess a valid Colorado Class "R" driver's license with a safe driving record
Ability to obtain Wildlife Euthanasia Certification within 6 months of hire

Nice To Haves

Certifications on basic animal handling training and animal welfare
Specialized training in animal cruelty investigations

Responsibilities

Patrols the City, finding, apprehending, and impounding stray/at-large animals
Responds to and investigates complaints of stray animals, animal cruelty/neglect, and animal nuisances
Issues warnings/summonses when necessary
Performs minor maintenance and care of assigned department vehicle including fuel, fluid checks, and cleaning
Provides information to citizens and visitors and creates a positive public image to improve community relations for the City and Police Department
Serves as the City's contact for all wildlife and domestic questions and concerns
Advises public on safety and viable options for removal of nuisance animals
Prepares field and counter reports as directed
Assists in directing traffic and aiding motor vehicle owners as needed
Inspects animals for vaccination and proper registration (licensing)
Examines animals for injuries or disease and delivers to care facility
Picks up and disposes of dead animals
Maintains current knowledge on animal-related topics
Performs related work as required