Animal Control Officer

Animal Control Officer

Let's make some fur-tastic decisions for the community!

Apply to be the next Animal Control Officer for the City of Moreno Valley!

Be the cat-alyst for positive change in animal welfare! DEADLINE TO APPLY This recruitment will close at 5:00 (PST) on Monday, April 27, 2026. The role offers flexible scheduling options, including a 9/80 or 4/10 work week.

THE OPPORTUNITY The Animal Control Officers are responsible for performing routine to moderately difficult animal control duties. Under general supervision, you will take a full range of action in conformance with state and local laws relating to the safety, health, welfare and control of both domestic and wild animals. In this role, you will have frequent interactions with the public to explain laws and regulations relating to the care and control of animals and may issue citations and/or notices in connection with violations. Work requires the application of approved methods, techniques, and devices in the pickup and capture of injured, sick and vicious animals to avoid or minimize personal risk. Incumbents may also humanely destroy animals in accordance with established procedures using approved methods.

OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE Our ideal candidate is a dedicated, passionate individual who embodies exceptional customer service and teamwork. This candidate will thrive in challenging situations, demonstrating proficiency in effectively interacting with individuals who may be difficult, hostile, or distressed. They will possess a deep understanding of and sensitivity to cultural diversity, allowing them to relate well to people from varied backgrounds. This individual will be committed to working collaboratively with teammates and community members to achieve shared goals and objectives. A strong problem-solver, the candidate will approach each situation with empathy and professionalism, ensuring that all animals are treated with care and respect while upholding important community standards. If you have a genuine love for animals, the ability to connect with diverse populations, and a passion for public service, we invite you to join our team and make a positive impact in our community.

MINIMUM AND DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined above is graduation from high school or G.E.D. equivalent; and two years of experience in the care and handling of animals; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Licenses; Certificates; Special Requirements:

• Possession of a valid California driver's license, and the ability to maintain insurability under the City's vehicle insurance policy.
• A California Penal Code Section 832 certification, or the ability to obtain certification within six months from the date of hire.
• Ability to obtain a State Humane Academy certification and certification in euthanasia administration.
• Employees are assigned to work on weekends and holidays and are subject to emergency call-outs.

WHO WE ARE The City of Moreno Valley prides itself on delivering quality service to our residents and businesses efficiently and effectively through Collaboration, Innovation, Customer Service, and Human-Centric Design. Strategically located in Southern California's Inland Empire, Moreno Valley is the second-largest city in Riverside County and is close to major hubs such as Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego. This spacious, thriving, and diverse City has a population of over 200,000 residents and offers a variety of business opportunities.

THE SELECTION PROCESS Applicants possessing the MOST DESIRABLE qualifications at each level, based on a screening of required application materials, including the completed Supplemental Questionnaire, will be invited to continue in the selection process. The City of Moreno Valley prioritizes and is committed to continuously providing a workplace where equal employment opportunity is afforded to all people. Recruitment Process: Human Resources (HR) reviews all application materials to determine whether candidates meet the established minimum and preferred qualifications after the position closes. Those who qualify will be advanced to the next stage of the recruitment process. All applicants will receive email notifications regarding their status. Application Screening Applications and supplemental materials will be reviewed to identify candidates whose qualifications best align with the position's essential requirements. Only those applicants who meet the criteria outlined in the job bulletin will advance to the next phase of the selection process.

Video Appraisal Interview Applicants may complete a self-guided video interview by recording responses to a series of structured questions. These questions are designed to assess each candidate's qualifications and suitability for the position. There is no live interviewer or proctor; candidates will record their answers independently and submit the videos for evaluation. Technical Interview: Selected applicants will be invited to participate in a structured technical interview designed to evaluate job-related knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in key competencies required for the position. Candidates will respond to a series of standardized questions, and their performance will be assessed using predetermined evaluation criteria to ensure a fair and consistent appraisal process. Based on the Department's needs, the selection procedures listed above may be modified. All candidates will be notified of any changes in the selection procedure. Eligible List: Once the appraisal is complete, HR will establish an eligible list of candidates. Candidates placed on the eligible list may be referred to a selection interview to be considered for present and future vacancies.

BENEFITS: For an overview of the City of Moreno Valley's excellent benefit offerings, please click the following link: City of Moreno Valley Benefits Overview

SELECTION PROCESS: Following an administrative review of each application, only the most qualified applicants will be invited to an oral interview and/or testing. The successful candidate will be required to pass a medical examination, and to submit original documentation to establish both work authorization and identity (per the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986). Criminal background investigations will be conducted, and, in accordance with our Drug Free Workplace Policy, a Drug Screening Test will be required. The City of Moreno Valley is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. For further information regarding this position, contact the Human Resources Department at (951) 413-3045.

The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract.