Animal Control Officer - Animal Services Division

• Responds to telephone and radio requests and locates reported stray animals.
• Checks animals for proper identification and vaccination. Investigates violations of the Animal Control Ordinance and related state statutes.
• Traps and tranquilizes feral animals.
• Issues warnings and/or notices to appear for non-compliance and monitors all complaints to completion.
• As required, provides testimony/evidence at court proceedings.
• Appears before a hearing officer on dangerous dog appeals.
• Investigates animal bite cases in accordance with state health rules.
• Apprehends and transports animals to humane societies or veterinarians.
• Attempts to locate animals' owners and obtains necessary information to satisfy complaints.
• Explains the ordinance and related laws to the public.
• Advises citizens on the responsibility of animal ownership.
• Advises all parties in the proper procedure for processing complaints.
• Coordinates investigations with outside agencies when necessary.
• Completes all case paperwork.
• Reports to field supervisor on  casework.
• Answers emergency calls during and after working hours, shifts, and weekends.
• Conducts presentations about the division to the public.
• Assists in training of new officers.
• May be assigned to other county locations based upon operational needs.
• Attends work on a regular and consistent basis.
• Must adhere to Federal, State, County and Local ordinances.
• Works before, during, and after hurricanes or other natural disasters, including but not limited to pet friendly evacuation shelters.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Graduation from high school or possession of a GED certificate AND one (1) year of experience as an Animal Control Officer. One (1) year of experience working as a Law Enforcement Officer, Veterinary Assistant, or in a position that requires animal handling will be considered equivalent experience.

*Must attain an Animal Control Certification within one (1) year of appointment.

*Must possess and maintain a valid Florida driver's license at the time of hire.

NOTE: A pre-employment skills test may be required

• Knowledge of the care, humane treatment and safe handling of animals.
• Knowledge of the Animal Control Ordinance.
• Knowledge of the symptoms of rabies in dogs and cats.
• Knowledge of the geography of County unincorporated areas.
• Knowledge of state statutes and codes relative to animal control
• Ability to explain regulations to the public.
• Ability to deal effectively with the public and animal owners in adverse situations.
• Ability to work alone in the field.
• Ability to investigate complaints of stray or wild animals.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to apprehend animals in the field, including aggressive or dangerous animals.
• Ability to utilize special industry tools (e.g. catch pole, traps, tranquilizer gun, blowgun.)
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work under stressful conditions.
• Ability to interact effectively with others.
• Must be able to relocate to other county locations based upon operational needs.