Animal Control Officer

Animal Control Officer

Under general supervision, assists in the licensing, impounding, caring for, and disposing of animals in accordance with State, County and local laws, ordinances and regulations; and does other related work as required.

Typical tasks and representative duties include patrolling assigned areas in a community service approach. Attempt to solve neighborhoods' animal-related problems in a positive manner. Investigates complaints concerning stray, noisy, vicious, or dead animals, and handles violations of animal control laws or regulations; captures and impounds sick, injured, stray, biting, or vicious animals as necessary; removes and disposes of dead animals; investigates animal bite incidents and issues quarantine notices; conducts public information programs to explain pet owner responsibility; enforces State, County and local laws, ordinances and regulations pertaining to animal control; issues notices or citations, makes arrests, and appears in court on matters pertaining to violations of animal control laws, ordinances or regulations; feeds, waters and cares for impounded or quarantined animals; destroys animals using proper methods; issues licenses and collects fees; assists in licensing, immunization or spay / neuter clinics; assists in training and supervising subordinate personnel; maintains records and prepares reports.

The ideal candidate has knowledge of the proper care and handling of various breeds of animals; State and local laws, regulations and ordinances pertaining to animal control. Ability to learn and properly enforce animal control laws, regulations and ordinances; establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees, law enforcement agencies and the public; analyze situations and adopt effective courses of action; follow oral and written instructions; write clear and concise reports.

Education and experience licenses and certificates required include a valid driver's license. A valid CALIFORNIA driver's license is required at the time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment. Physical : Must take and pass a job-related medical examination and psychological examination at time of appointment. Character : Good moral character as determined by a thorough background investigation, to include a polygraph / computerized voice stress analyzer exam. No conviction by any State, the Federal Government or a foreign government of a crime which could have been punishable by imprisonment in a Federal Penitentiary or State prison.

Applications, including answers to supplemental questions, must be submitted online by the final filing date. Most County recruitments require you to respond to supplemental questions as part of the application process. We recommend that you review these questions prior to beginning your application. An initial application review will be conducted. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and are best qualified will be invited to participate in selection activities which may include online assessments, performance exams, written exams, and interviews.

Final candidates will be required to have an in-depth background review performed before proceeding in the process. Please note that references will not be contacted until the end of the process. If you have questions or would like to discuss the opportunity further, please contact Human Resources at hr@co.slo.ca.us. Confidential inquiries are welcomed.

Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment. If you are applying for employment with the County of San Luis Obispo and you served in the United States Armed Forces, you may be eligible for veteran's preference points as part of the recruitment process. Some dependents and survivors of eligible veterans may also be eligible for preference points. The County is an equal opportunity employer. Objectives are directed toward assuring equal opportunity in selection / promotion, pay, and job assignments.

Employees of the County of San Luis Obispo are public servants who impact the lives of our community every day. Your annual salary is supplemented by a generous benefit package. Some benefits include : medical, dental, and vision insurance; health enhancing programs; cafeteria contributions; free visits to the employee health clinic; mental health resources / benefits; voluntary insurance plans; a lifelong retirement benefit; optional deferred compensation plan; tax savings accounts; paid personal, sick and vacation days; 12 paid holidays; employee assistance program; education and wellness allowance; post employment health plan; family friendly workplace policies; flexible work schedule options; rideshare commuter benefits; and pet insurance.

The County prioritizes your learning, personal and professional development, and career growth. Employees have access to over 1500 on-demand courses, instructor led courses, and job-specific trainings. Examples of courses include : emotional intelligence; supervisor / manager academies; Microsoft Suite courses; defensive driving; financial management; retirement preparedness; teambuilding; written communication; conflict management; Clifton StrengthsFinder and DISC; and job specific conferences / trainings.

Did you know that if you are employed by a government agency you may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program? County employees also have access to GotZoom, a program that offers tools and support to navigate your federal student loans. Employees have access to the "Assist-to-Own" program sponsored by Golden State Finance Authority to get a loan for the down payment.

Have you completed 12 semester units in Administration of Justice courses and / or animal science courses from an accredited college or university? Do you have one year of experience involving public contact work, including six months of experience in the handling of dogs? Do you have possession of a Class I Certificate as a full-time or reserve Police or Sheriff's Officer? Required Question

For further information regarding the County of San Luis Obispo, visit our website at www.slocounty.ca.gov.