Animal Control Officer I

JOB CODE: 2174

PAY GRADE: 1120

SALARY RANGE: $26,508 - $45,119

LOCATION OF WORK
Animal Control and Rescue Center

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Under the general supervision of an employee of a higher classification, performs responsible and specialized investigative field and office work within the City-Parish Animal Control department. Work involves investigating complaints of cruelty to animals and violations of animal control ordinances; issuing misdemeanor summonses for violations; capturing unlicensed, stray, and uncontrolled domestic animals, livestock, wildlife, and exotics; and setting and retrieving humane animal traps. Employees of this class are required to exercise considerable independent judgment and tact. Work requires assignment to a team on a rotation that may include nights and weekends. Performs other work as requested.

ESSENTIAL WORK TASKS
Writes and issues misdemeanor summons to owners of domestic animals, livestock, wildlife, and exotics in violation of the City-Parish ordinances; enforces City-Parish Animal Control ordinances; performs work in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies. Captures unlicensed, stray, uncontrolled, sick or injured domestic animals, livestock, wildlife, and exotics that have bitten humans and transports them to the Animal Control Center. Investigates complaints of cruelty to animals and violations of animal control ordinances; testifies in court regarding ordinance violations; assists in training new personnel; explains animal control ordinances to the public. Sets up and retrieves humane animal traps for parish residents requesting this service; accepts and refunds animal trap deposits. Prepares background and descriptive data records on animals impounded or rescued. Educates the public on responsible animal ownership. Understands the characteristics of and works with animals without fear. Rescues animals in distress, and resolves animal related neighborhood disputes. Drives vehicle; washes and maintain vehicle's fluids. Operates two-way radio; maintains equipment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of or ability to learn City-Parish ordinances as they apply to the Animal Control Center. Knowledge of or ability to learn City-Parish geography (main highways, streets and landmarks). Knowledge or the ability to learn the techniques used in capturing domestic animals, livestock, wildlife and exotics with no fear of handling animals under conditions of extreme duress. Knowledge or the ability to learn the various species of domestic animals, livestock, wildlife, and exotics especially those that are common to this area. Knowledge or the ability to learn the proper techniques used in the physical handling of domestic animals, livestock, wildlife, and exotics. Knowledge of the symptoms of rabies and other common animal illnesses. Knowledge of the general operating methods and practices of other City-Parish enforcement agencies. Ability to respect, learn the characteristics of and work with animals without fear. Ability to communicate orally with the public in a professional and tactful manner. 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 accurately prepare and maintain a variety of written records and reports. 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