Humane Enforcement Officer

JOB CODE: 2178

PAY GRADE: 1140

SALARY RANGE: $29,219 - $49,743

LOCATION OF WORK
Animal Control and Rescue Center

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Under the general supervision of the Animal Control Field Supervisor, performs responsible work supervising a team of Animal Control Officers on a rotating shift. Position is responsible for conducting field investigations with animal control officers and ensuring the follow up of all calls. Work also involves conducting specialized dog fighting and cruelty investigations, writing reports, and testifying as an expert witness in court on related cases. Employees of this class will serve as lead cruelty investigator and respond to special animal complaints, such as vicious and nuisance animals, which require additional investigative skills. Work requires exceptional teamwork skills and the use of independent judgment within standard operating policy and procedures. Work hours require assignment to a team on a rotation that may include nights and weekends. Performs other work as requested.

ESSENTIAL WORK TASKS
Serves as lead investigator on cruelty investigations, nuisance and vicious animal complaints; provides back up to Animal Control Officers for investigation, tranquilizing, and emergencies; coordinates with other law enforcement agencies on specialized cases. Prepares reports on officers activities; responsible for all animal control related activities after normal business hours on an assigned shift. Monitors paperwork, documentation and investigations completed by Animal Control Officers; maintains legible, concise reports, records, photographs and receipts for adequate documentation on all cases; appears in court as an expert witness when subpoenaed. Enforces ordinances and laws pertaining to animals; issues citations; confirms quarantine observation of suspected rabid animals. Conducts training of incoming officers with capture and enforcement skills and the use of specialized equipment; performs field and office training exercises. Educates the public on responsible animal ownership, and explains animal control ordinances to the public. Drives and maintains vehicle or animal control unit. Operates two-way radio; maintains equipment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of City-Parish ordinances as they apply to the Animal Control Center. Knowledge of City-Parish geography (main highways, streets and landmarks). Knowledge of investigative techniques and basic photography. Knowledge of the general operating methods and practices of other City-Parish enforcement agencies. Knowledge of the techniques used in capturing domestic animals, livestock, wildlife and exotics with no fear of handling animals under conditions of extreme duress. Knowledge of the symptoms of rabies and other common animal illnesses. Ability to accurately prepare and maintain a variety of written records and reports for case documentation. Ability to communicate orally with the public in a professional and tactful manner. Ability to supervise lower-level Animal Control Officers in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale. Ability to possess mature judgment and emotional stability under a wide variety of working conditions. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions and ascertain facts through investigations. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public. Ability to apply good work habits such as punctuality, reliability, preciseness, and dependability in order to effectively complete assigned tasks and contribute to the smooth operation of the department and division.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS