Animal Services Officer (Animal Services)

Position will be open until filled.

GENERAL PURPOSE: Under general supervision, perform tasks related to rabies control, impoundment, education and prevention services.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Safely and humanely capture and transport animals, including those who are sick, injured or potentially dangerous.

• Investigate reports of rabies exposure, dangerous or vicious animals and proper care violations.

• Participate in prevention services such as teaching bite prevention classes, responsible pet ownership classes, etc.

• Contribute to the programs and services that support the shelter's live outcome goal.

• Establish quarantines and oversee home observations.

• Respond to observed or reported emergency situations and ordinance violations as well as after-hours emergency calls as needed at the request of citizens and other government agencies such as the San Angelo Police Department.

• Answer citizen questions and provide assistance and education regarding responsible animal ownership and ordinance requirements and assist in complaint mediation.

• Write reports and record data on appropriate forms.

• Issue citations, draft court complaints, obtain seizure warrants and testify in court.

• Euthanize animals when necessary with understanding and compassion for the animal.

• Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 am-5:00 pm, after hours on call.

• Regular and timely attendance is required.

• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or equivalent; and one year of experience working with animals; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required Licenses or Certifications:

• Must possess a valid Texas Driver License.

• Must possess a valid driver license with a good driving record. Applicants with an out-of-state driver license must provide an original certified driving record from the state of driving licensure.

• Basic Animal Control Certification must be completed within twelve (12) months of hire.

• Euthanasia Certification must be completed within twelve (12) months of hire.

Required Knowledge of:

• Animal services and related programs.

• State and local laws, regulations and ordinances concerning animal related issues and complaints.

• City of San Angelo streets, roads, etc.

Required Skill in:

• Safely handling wild, domestic and livestock animals, including those with unknown temperament.

• Using computers and related software applications.

• Establishing and maintaining good working relationships with other City employees and the public.

• Using tools to capture, restrain, and transport animals.

• Verbal and written communication, including the ability to draft grammatically correct, concise reports under strict deadlines.

• Public speaking.

• Handling multiple tasks, prioritizing and problem solving under pressure.

Required Ability in:

• Diffusing heated encounters, both human and animal.

• Adhering to disease management and safety protocols.

• Identifying animal species and breeds.

Physical Demands / Work Environment:

• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.

• Work involves physical demands; must maintain a level of physical fitness to meet Department standards, and be able to lift up to 80 lbs. Will demonstrate the ability to pull a sled w/ 125 lbs. 100 ft. to demonstrate ability to control animals and transport on a leash/pole.

Job postings may be withdrawn at any time at direction of the City Manager.