Community Enforcement Officer

Dorchester County•Sc, SC

13h•Onsite

About The Position

The purpose of this role is to enforce County ordinances related to the care and keeping of domestic animals and livestock, as well as litter and nuisance ordinances, to ensure public safety and welfare. The position involves providing technical interpretation of regulations to citizens, preparing and maintaining documentation, and performing related duties. While some procedures are followed, the role requires independent decision-making on how and when to act, with regular supervision. A 10-year driver's record is required to operate a county vehicle, and a credit report is necessary for attending the Law Enforcement Academy.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least two (2) years of related work experience.
Valid state driver's license.
Must possess or be able to obtain euthanasia certification within one year of hire date.
Must possess or be able to obtain Class III Basic Law Enforcement Certification through the SCCJA within one year of hire date.
A 10-year driver's record is required to operate a county vehicle.
A credit report is required for attending the Law Enforcement Academy.

Responsibilities

Patrols County areas to identify violations of animal, nuisance, and zoning ordinances, including illegal dump sites, property maintenance issues, and commercial vehicles in residential areas.
Investigates complaints regarding nuisance animals, inspects properties for code compliance, and takes appropriate action.
Receives and investigates reports of animal abuse or ordinance violations (e.g., trash disposal, abandoned vehicles, vermin infestation), files charges, prepares cases for prosecution, and provides court testimony.
Researches County records to determine property ownership and responsibility.
Prepares inspection reports, issues notices of corrective actions or citations, and maintains logs and records of enforcement activities.
Responds to calls regarding stray, vicious, or diseased animals, and animal bites, reporting bites to DHEC and conducting preliminary investigations.
Investigates complaints regarding stray and aggressive animals, managing volatile situations by interpreting animal behaviors.
Explains, interprets, and provides guidance on applicable codes and compliance requirements to staff and the public.
Follows up on cases to verify corrections and conducts re-inspections as needed.
Assists law enforcement personnel with animal-related situations and may request assistance from the Sheriff’s Office for unruly citizens.
Assists in the euthanasia of animals as necessary.
Maintains assigned vehicles and County-issued equipment.
Checks zoning regulations applicable to specific properties.
Performs general clerical work, including report preparation, data entry, copying, filing, and attending meetings.
Educates the public on proper animal care.
Attends training, seminars, and meetings to enhance job knowledge and skills and maintain certifications.
Performs emergency duties before, during, and/or after an emergency event as assigned.
Performs other related job duties as assigned.