Animal Services Officer

City of Denison•Denison, TX

About The Position

Performs routine daily functions enforcing animal control laws and regulations and operating an animal control shelter. The role involves patrolling, responding to public complaints, capturing and handling animals, enforcing ordinances, investigating animal bites, and maintaining records and reports. Work is primarily in the field and includes remaining on call after hours as required. The position may involve exposure to outdoor weather, animal attacks, and infectious diseases carried by animals.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Valid driver’s license at the time of placement.
Driving record sufficient for coverage by the City’s auto liability carrier.
Must have or obtain an Animal Control license within one year from the date of hire.
Ability to establish and maintain accurate records of assigned activities and operations.
Ability to interpret and implement local policies and procedures, written instructions, correspondence, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
Organizational and time-management skills to prioritize a high volume of work while adapting to changing priorities.
Ability to perform detailed work accurately and independently, meet stringent time limits, and work with minimal direction and supervision.
Ability to think quickly, maintain self-control, and adapt to stressful situations.
Knowledge of office practices and procedures and standard office equipment and software, including word-processing, spreadsheet, and database applications.
Ability to perform required mathematical calculations.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English, verbally and in writing.
Ability to research and understand complex written materials and prepare and maintain accurate, concise records and reports.
Sound judgment and discretion in performing duties, resolving problems, and interpreting policies and regulations.
Ability to communicate detailed and sensitive information effectively and concisely.
Ability to handle sensitive interpersonal situations calmly and tactfully and maintain professionalism.
Ability to maintain effective working relationships with people inside and outside the organization.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Ability to work allocated hours and respond after hours as needed.
Ability to operate machines, motor vehicles, or equipment and wear specialized personal protective equipment.
Ability to perform the physical and visual demands described, including occasional exertion of up to 50 pounds of force.

Responsibilities

Patrol in a City vehicle to detect stray, loose, unlicensed, sick, injured, and dead animals and identify animal control ordinance violations.
Respond to public complaints and requests for assistance by locating and impounding stray, loose, unlicensed, sick, injured, and dead animals.
Set traps when required to capture animals.
Impound and release animals from the shelter according to prescribed procedures.
Dispose of dead animals.
Investigate animal-bite reports to identify possible rabies or other health problems.
Issue citations for violations of animal control ordinances.
Destroy animals in the field when necessary.
Complete standard narrative and statistical reports related to animal services.
Enter all contacts into MyGov software for tracking.
Ensure animals’ rabies vaccinations are current.
Remain on call after hours as required.
Perform other duties as assigned.