Animal Control Service Officer

Summary

Duties and Responsibilities

• Answers calls to pick up biting, vicious, or stray domesticated animals such as dogs and cats
• Examine animal licenses, rabies vaccines documentation, and inspects establishments housing animals for compliance with state and local laws
• Removes captured animals from transport enclosures and place animals in shelter cages or other enclosures
• Photographs and completes records of animal descriptions and pick up location
• Issues warnings or citations in connection with animal–related offenses, or contacts Sheriff or other law enforcement personnel to report violations and requests arrests
• Contacts animal owners to inform them that their pets are at animal holding facilities
• Completes pickup record and uploads computerized work order system and updates Animal Control website
• Writes reports of activities, and maintains files of impoundments and dispositions of animals and completes other administrative logs, forms, and reports as needed;
• Consults with Sheriff or other law enforcement personnel concerning refusals to comply with County Court Orders and testifies in court when required
• Prepares for prosecutions related to animal treatment, and gives evidence in court
• Educates the public about animal welfare, Animal Control laws and regulations, and the need for vaccinations against rabies, canine and feline distemper and other animal-related issues
• Answers inquiries from the public concerning Animal Control operations
• Completes service checks, maintenance, minor repairs, and daily cleanup/sanitation of various vehicles and Animal Control equipment
• Assists in providing on-the-job training to less experienced employees
• Performs related duties as required

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from High School or General Education Development (GED) certificate, two (2) years' experience in operating light to medium pick-up trucks; and one (1) year of Animal Control or animal handling experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Knowledge of vehicle operation safety procedures; knowledge of mechanical operations of light road equipment; knowledge of operation, maintenance and cleaning of equipment used in Animal Control; knowledge of Animal Control techniques, practices, and procedures; knowledge of Animal Control safety practices/procedures and methods used to humanely handle vicious animals or animals with unknown temperament; knowledge of County and State Animal Control regulations and laws and knowledge of Bexar County streets, roads, etc.; knowledge of Texas DSHS Chapter 821 and 822, the procedures and policies for issuing notices of violations or citations; knowledge of safety standards and practices when using specialized hand tools
• Skill in the operation of hand tools; skill in utilizing a personal computer and associated software programs; skill in the use of tools used to capture, restrain, and transport animals; skill in dealing with the public including irate citizens
• Ability to perform minor mechanical repairs; ability to utilize independent judgment; ability to follow verbal and written instructions; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, County employees, and the general public; ability to humanely handle and control animals under all types of situations and circumstances; ability to adhere to disease management safety protocols; ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Must possess, or obtain within six (6) months of employment a Texas Department of Health's Basic Animal Control Officer Certification, Chapter 829, Animal Control Officer Training (Texas State Title 10 – Health & Safety of Animals)
• Must obtain Euthanasia by Injection Certification within one (1) year of employment and must maintain certification throughout employment
• Must maintain Continuing Education Credits of 30 hours per three (3) year period in accordance with Chapter 829, Animal Control Officer training (Texas State Title 10 – Health & Safety of Animals)
• Valid Texas Driver's License and no criminal convictions
• Must secure and maintain a favorable background investigation and clearance
• Must secure and maintain a pre-employment physical and a pre-employment drug screen test
• May be required to work more than 40 hours during the workweek
• Required to be on call 24-hours a day seven days a week and will be required to frequently work night and weekend shifts

• Working conditions are primarily outdoors
• Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions
• Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, insects, animal bites, poisonous plants, hazardous chemicals, rough terrain, damp/wet surfaces, poisonous plants, dirt, dust, oily surfaces, smoke, unpleasant odors, unfavorable fumes, vapors, loud noises and cramped work areas
• Occasional exposure to hazardous chemical irritants, noxious odors and fumes sometimes requiring the use of protective breathing apparatus
• Frequently operates an Animal Control Truck with animal transport enclosure; temporary assignment to higher or lower level equipment may occur when necessary
• Frequently moves equipment weighing up to 25 pounds
• Occasionally moves objects weighing up to 100 pounds
• Will frequently communicate with co-workers; must be able to exchange accurate information
• Frequently moves about buildings and vehicles
• Constantly positions self to perform essential functions
• Constantly operates tools and equipment

Supplemental Information