Animal Services Officer II

Department:                                 Sanitation/Public Works

Position Control Number:          0446-005

FLSA Status:                                  Non-Exempt, position is eligible for overtime

Safety Sensitive Designation:    This position is designated as safety-sensitive.

Random Drug/Alcohol Test:       Yes

Opening Date:                              March 01, 2025                          

Closing Date:                                March 16, 2025  at 11:59 PM

This job description should not be interpreted as all-inclusive.  It is intended to identify the essential functions and minimum qualifications of this job.  The incumbent(s) may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this job description.  Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign job-related responsibilities and tasks to this job at any time.  Certain functions are understood to be essential; these include, but are not limited to, attendance, getting along with others, working a full shift, and dealing with and working under stress.  Any essential function of this class will be evaluated as necessary should an incumbent/applicant be unable to perform the function or requirement due to a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  Reasonable accommodation for the specific disability will be made for the incumbent/applicant only to the extent medically and reasonably feasible.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

JOB SUMMARY: Responsible for the investigation of all complaints of stray animals/disturbances, issuing of warnings and/or citations for violations of the Pulaski County Animal Control Ordinance, and apprehension and impounding of stray animals; responsible for the investigation of suspected animal cruelty, abuse, and neglect and assistance in the enforcement of the animal cruelty law. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Receives calls from the public reporting suspected animal cruelty or abuse.
• Investigates reported animal neglect, cruelty, or abuse cases by field investigation, interviewing of owners and witnesses, and inspection of animals.
• Researches records from public agencies, property records, PAGIS mapping system, etc. to attempt to identify animal ownership as necessary.
• Completes reports summarizing conditions found and determination of abuse; discusses results with the animal owner.
• Confers with supervisor to determine if a case will be submitted to Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
• Explains animal cruelty law to the public; explains cases required for domestic animals and livestock.
• Performs follow-up inspections to ensure animal care instructions have been followed.
• Conducts on-site investigations concerning complaints and violations of the Pulaski County Animal Service Ordinance.
• Issues warning and/or citations to citizens for violations of the ordinance.
• Apprehends stray animals or animals who have bitten someone by using a trap or snare pole as needed; uses a tranquilizer gun, if necessary, to subdue the animal.
• Conducts quarantine impoundments and follow-up observation; relays information concerning the status of animals to bite victims and medical staff.
• Completes daily reports for each investigation made describing the location, complaint, and action taken; submits to supervisor.
• Explains the animal control ordinance, animal cruelty statute, and all applicable regulations governing the ownership and care of pets to the public.
• Picks up dead animals utilizing appropriate safety and disposal methods.
• Cleans and inspects vehicles for proper working order on a regular basis.
• Testifies in court when needed concerning animal cruelty cases, citations issued, violations of the ordinance, or other related issues as needed.
• Documents usage of tranquilizer drugs; reports documentation of usage to the provider of chemical capture drugs; maintains usage documentation records and attaches documentation to animal call response report.
• Serves as an animal care technician ensuring the welfare and proper care of animals within the shelter facility; provides food and water and any additional care required. 
• Cleans kennels and surrounding work areas within the shelter in accordance with proper disease control requirements; maintains supplies and equipment in a sanitary condition. 
• Assists in performing euthanasia of animals in accordance with applicable policies, procedures, and animal control ordinances. 

SECONDARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensures abused animals receive all necessary medical testing and care to address conditions if resources are available.
• Assists with the maintenance of euthanasia records; completes necessary reports and makes appropriate entries in the logbook. 
• Performs other related duties as required.

PERSONNEL SUPERVISED:     None

WORKING CONDITIONS: Duties performed regularly in an outdoor environment with exposure to all types of weather conditions.  Duties involve occasional contact with aggressive animals.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

• • Considerable knowledge of the Pulaski County ordinance and regulations governing animal control, ownership, and care.
  • Considerable knowledge of the State animal cruelty statute and the corresponding animal care requirements.
  • Considerable knowledge of safe and effective methods of animal apprehension.
  • Considerable knowledge of the signs and symptoms of rabies, abuse, and neglect within domestic animals.
  • Considerable knowledge of safe and effective methods of animal euthanasia.
  • Good knowledge of the general care, nutrition, and handling of a variety of animals.
  • Good knowledge of street and road locations within the boundaries of Pulaski County.
  • Ability to deal tactfully and effectively with pet owners, shelter staff, and the public.
  • Ability to deal safely with dangerous and vicious dogs.
  • Ability to follow safety guidelines and procedures when handling medications and equipment used in tranquilizing and euthanizing animals.
  • Ability to read and interpret State and County statutes, ordinances, and regulations.
  • Ability to prepare written reports reflecting investigative results.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in writing.
  • Ability to identify ordinance and statute violations in the field and determine appropriate action. 
  • Ability to attend work regularly and reliably. 
  • Skill in the use of a tranquilizer gun.
  • Skill in the use of euthanasia drugs.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• • Ability to run, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl as needed to search for and apprehend animals.
  • Visual acuity is necessary for the location and inspection of animals in the field.
  • Ability to lift and carry loads up to 60 pounds.
  • Ability to hear and speak sufficiently to communicate information in person and by two-way radio.
  • Ability to work in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner.
  • Ability to concentrate for long periods of time.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Completion of high school or GED equivalency; considerable experience with animal control, animal care, or a related area; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities.