Animal Control Officer

Job Summary:  

Provide effective and efficient assistance to animal-related calls within the District of Columbia by assisting the public with all animal-related matters in a manner consistent with HRA values. Rescue both domestic and wild animals who may be injured or in dangerous situations, as well as act as a first responder to all animal-related emergencies in the District.  ACOs are essential members of the community and are expected to bring the multitude of resources provided by HRA into the community they serve.

A relocation stipend for up to $1,000 for non-reimbursable expenses may be offered.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Rescue domestic and wild animals from dangerous situations, as well as picking up sick, injured, and trapped animals and impounding animals, when needed.
2. Work with local and federal law enforcement agencies and assist with the execution of search warrants, arrest warrants, and evictions as needed.
3. Interact with and educate the public on the responsibility of companion animal ownership, explaining provisions of the DC Animal Control Act.
4. Provide prompt, courteous service to customers inquiring about HRA shelter policies and programs.
5. Demonstrate advanced proficiency in PetPoint.
6. Always represent HRA in a professional and courteous manner. Provide quality service to the public, volunteers, and employees recognizing their individual contributions to the success of the organization. 
7. Perform other related duties and special projects as assigned by Animal Control Manager.

Training:

Successfully complete required ACO training as listed:

1. Possess and maintain certification for Chemical Capture, or obtain certification within one year of hire
2. Possess and maintain certification for Bite Stick, or obtain certification within six months of hire
3. Possess and maintain certification for Pepper Spray (OC) or obtain certification within six months of hire
4. Successfully complete HRA (DCAC) Animal Control Officers training program within the 90-day probationary period. 
5. Possess and maintain certification for Euthanasia by Injection (EBI) or obtain certification within six months of hire

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Knowledge/experience in state/local animal laws and enforcement techniques.
• Knowledge of and ability to handle domestic, exotic, and wild animals.
• Possess and maintain a clear criminal background record.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license with a good driving record.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a customer service orientation. Ability to communicate effectively, courteously, and professionally with a variety of individuals representing the public, board members, volunteers, donors, and employees.
• Ability to work on-call nights and weekends.
• Computer literacy with proficient use of programs including Microsoft Office programs, email, Internet, and database management software. 
• Ability to manage the emotional aspect of work in an animal shelter environment in a positive professional manner, including providing input on euthanasia decisions.  
• Passion for the Humane Rescue Alliance mission, for caring for all animals regardless of age, breed, temperament, or species, and supporting and educating members of the public, free of judgment or bias. 

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 

• Ability to wear a ballistic vest at all times in the field.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds unassisted regularly, 50 pounds assisted.
• Ability to be comfortable working with cats, dogs, small animals, reptiles, fish and wildlife.
• Ability to perform strenuous physical activity on a daily basis, including but not limited to: lifting and carrying, reaching, stooping, squatting, standing, and bending.
• Due to nature of shelter work, may be exposed to deceased, fractious, or aggressive animals; hostile or irate persons; zoonotic or other diseases; unpleasant noises, odors, or sights; and extreme temperatures.

Education and Experience: 

• A clear criminal background check and current driving record must be made available prior to confirmation of employment.