Animal Care Technician

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The Animal Care Technician is responsible for performing entry level duties in the observation, care, treatment, and euthanasia of dogs, cats, and other wild and domestic animals; relating to control of animals, disease control, public safety, and education; and to keep detailed records of all animal shelter functions. Difficult problems are referred to a supervisor. Courtesy, tact and firmness are required in dealing with the general public in a variety of situations, some of which may be stressful. General supervision is received from a Shelter Supervisor, who evaluates performance based on observation and discussions concerning the effectiveness of carrying out instructions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This list is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate.

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  Includes knowledge of basic, routine, or repetitive tasks or operations, such as the ability to operate or use simple tools and equipment.

• Inspects kennel areas checking each animal individually for any abnormal activity such as vomiting, diarrhea, or blood in kennels. Reports all abnormal activity to supervisors, or veterinarian and make appropriate notes so animal can be examined.

• Requires handling or using catchpoles, syringes for injections, DEA regulated drugs administering medications and using machinery as needed.

• Cleans and disinfects cages, kennels, cat litter boxes, food bowls, and outdoor years as needed, including changing soiled bedding.

• Operates washer and dryer to clean kennel bedding.

• Performs routine work of sheltering and caring for impounded animals and completes all necessary paperwork.

• Responsible for general cleaning of building and premises

• Feed and waters animals daily

• Inspects animals on a routine basis, gives shots, baths, and dips and cares for animals to include daily walking.

• Assists with the euthanasia of animals as necessary.

• Observes all safety regulations and communicates potential risks.

• Demonstrates continuous effort to improve operations and to provide quality seamless customer service.

Additional Requirements:

• This position requires the use of City vehicles. Individuals must be physically capable of operating vehicles safely and possess a valid driver's license.

• Some positions will require the performance of other essential and marginal functions depending upon assignment.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED & EXERCISED

• General supervision is received from the Animal Shelter Supervisor.

• This position has no supervisory responsibility.

QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES

Knowledge of:

• General principles of animal care and disease treatment and prevention.

• Basic mathematical principles.

• English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

• Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment.

• Principals and procedures of record keeping and reporting.

• Safe driving principles and practices.

Ability to:

• Operate a variety of animal control equipment and tools in a safe and effective manner.

• Operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and software.

• Operate a motor vehicle safely.

• Communicate clearly and concisely in Spanish and English, both orally and in writing.

• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.

• Work cooperatively with other City employees and the general public.

• Respond to requests and inquiries from the general public.

Education & Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent; or six (6) months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Licenses, Certificates & Registrations:

• Euthanasia Certification required; or must be able to obtain within the first twelve (12) months of employment.

• Animal Control Certification preferred.

• Valid Texas Driver’s License.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The employee is frequently required to use hands to handle and feel; reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel and crouch, and lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The employee is exposed to outdoor weather conditions, blood borne pathogens, moving vehicle traffic and disagreeable elements. Regular exposure to animals, cleaning chemicals, fumes, dust, animal feces, bites, scratches. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

SAFETY SENSITIVITY

This position is not classified as a safety-sensitive position.