Lead Animal Control Officer - Vector Control (Health Services)

Shelby County•Memphis, TN

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Enforces state and county animal control laws and ordinances within unincorporated areas of Shelby County. Patrols assigned areas, investigates animal-related complaints, responds to suspected bite cases, and impounds animals when necessary to protect public health, safety, and welfare. The role may also serve as Lead Animal Control Officer, providing guidance and support to staff and volunteers. The position responds to dispatch calls, investigates animal-related incidents, handles and transports animals and specimens, takes enforcement action, attends court hearings, and provides information and education to the public. It requires the ability to work shifts and weekends and to perform physical duties in all types of weather.

Requirements

Three years of experience enforcing codes related to animal and/or vector control in a lead or supervisory capacity.
High school diploma or GED.
Knowledge of laws and ordinances pertaining to animal and rabies control, search, seizure, and animal collection procedures.
Skill in animal identification and observing behavior.
Skill in conflict resolution.
Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel or similar County applications and software.
Valid Tennessee driver's license, or ability to secure one as of the employment date, and maintenance of a satisfactory driving record.
Attend and complete Animal Control Training Course Level I or II within one year of employment.
Must be able to be commissioned as an Unarmed Special Deputy.
Must be available to work shifts and weekends.
Maintain all required certifications, licenses, and training throughout employment.
Ability to stoop, squat, crawl, and perform other physical duties as needed to investigate locations and animals and apprehend animals.
Ability to lift or pull up to 50 pounds at a time.
Ability to work in all types of weather.
Successfully pass a physical assessment.
Proof of education, training, and/or experience.

Responsibilities

Respond to dispatch calls and patrol assigned areas in a County-issued vehicle to address animal-related complaints and public safety concerns.
Investigate reports involving animal bites, animal abuse, neglect, inhumane treatment, animals running at large, and potentially dangerous, sick, injured, stray, deceased, unvaccinated, or unlicensed animals.
Verify reported animal bite incidents by gathering information from victims, witnesses, and individuals who had contact with the animal.
Take possession of and impound animals as required in suspected rabies cases, bite cases, dangerous animal situations, or when necessary to protect public health and safety.
Transport animals to the appropriate agency, shelter, or facility for care, quarantine, evaluation, or other required action.
Collect animal specimens for examination and transport them to the state laboratory in accordance with established procedures.
Issue citations or warrants, as appropriate, and attend court hearings related to animal control violations and enforcement actions.
Provide information and respond to public inquiries regarding licensing, vaccinations, euthanasia, adoptions, spaying and neutering, and other animal control matters.
Educate the public and community groups on proper pet care, responsible pet ownership, and pet population control.
Use department-issued equipment and weapons, when necessary, to capture, control, or euthanize animals in accordance with laws, policies, and safety protocols.
As Lead Animal Control Officer, provide guidance and support to staff and volunteers.
Perform related duties as required or directed.