Animal Control Officer

Animal Control OfficerAre you passionate about the well-being of animals? Do you want to provide high quality animal protection services through compassion, education and enforcement of laws and regulations? The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Animal Services Division is seeking an enthusiastic Animal Control Officer to join our team of dedicated professionals to provide compassionate and effective animal services for the County of Humboldt. Job Highlights: This position is responsible for a variety of duties, including:Promotes responsible pet ownershipCapture stray and unlicensed animals for impounding and transport injured animalsProcess animal bite reports and investigates animal bitesConduct initial investigations of complaints regarding animal crueltyWork Location: This position is located in the Humboldt County Animal Shelter 970 Lycoming, McKinleyville, CA 95519 This position is represented by the AFSCME bargaining unit.Under general supervision, enforces County laws regarding stray, dangerous and nuisance animals; promotes responsible pet ownership; investigates complaints, patrols assigned areas and captures animals; administers the animal licensing program, including collecting and accounting for fees; performs related work as assigned.This is a skilled, experienced classification in animal control and licensing, responsible for enforcing applicable regulations in a police officer capacity with limited peace officer authorities. Successful performance of the work requires independent decision-making skill to effectively promote responsible pet ownership.Knowledge of:Basic species and breed identification of a variety of domestic and common wild animals.Symptoms and behavior associated with rabies and other common diseases of animals.Behavior and handling of common domestic or wild animals.Methods and equipment used in the care and control of animals.State and local laws and ordinances pertaining to the proper care and control of animals.Safe working practices.Basic recordkeeping principles and practices.Skill in:Handling, capturing and controlling animals humanely and effectively under stressful or emergency circumstances.Assessing animal behavior and making effective decisions regarding handling, capturing or destroying the animal.Identifying symptoms and behaviors associated with rabies and other common domestic animal diseases.Operating County vehicles, radios, and other animal control tools and equipment.Reading maps and following oral and written directions.Maintaining accurate records and preparing reports of work performed.Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work, including groups and/or hostile or irate citizens.Other Requirements: Must possess a valid California driver's license. Must be medically capable of working with animals and being able to lift and carry up to 80 pounds. Desirable Education and Experience: A typical way to obtain the knowledge and skills outlined above is: Two years of experience in animal care or control or as law enforcement support, plus some college level coursework in animal control, animal behavior, public relations, law enforcement or a related field is desirable.