Animal Services Officer

The purpose of this classification is to preform specialized/general work functions associated with responding to animal complaints, picking up abandoned, stray and injured animals and enforcing all applicable animal control ordinances. This classification is considered the entry level for the Animal Services Officer series.

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Responds to incoming calls from citizens concerning various animal control issues, such as stray/nuisance animals, aggressive animals, injured animals, loose livestock, animal behavior problems, and animal control laws; provides information and assistance, performs follow-up as appropriate.

Handles animals, restraining as appropriate/necessary, loads animals into cages and animal control vehicle and checks animals for injuries.

Patrols county roads to enforce the county animal control code/ordinances, locate and pick up stray animals; assist animals in problem situations; transports animals to the county animal shelter, veterinarian office, emergency veterinarian care or other locations; transports deceased animals to the county animal shelter and assist other agencies as requested.

Acts as a liaison between county and public on education and implementation of TNR programs.

Provides information and assistance concerning codes/ordinances, code interpretation, code compliance, and related issues; discusses violations and problems with animal owners, care givers, or other individuals; recommends solutions to problems; responds to questions or complaints concerning violations.

Identifies animal control code violations, deficiencies, or other areas of non-compliance; issues warnings and/or citations as appropriate; performs follow-up site visits to verify compliance.

Prepares case documentation for prosecution of cases in court; attends court and testifies in court proceedings

Interprets, explains, and enforces the provisions of applicable animal control codes/ordinances.

Operates a computer to enter, retrieve, review or modify data in computer database; verifies accuracy of entered data and makes corrections as necessary; utilizes excel, word, outlook, power point, pet point or other software programs.

Maintains records of animal control activities; prepares work plans; maintains database records of complaints, or other work activities, completes monthly activity report.

May assist with investigating cruelty and abandonment of domestic animals and livestock. Works closely with senior officers to gather information used to prosecute violators.

Assist field officers in unloading, checking in and relocating animals in the shelter.

Assist with special events to promote public awareness and education on local animal control to schools, clubs, groups, organizations and businesses.

Maintains communication via telephone and/or two way radio with dispatch, department or other agencies; provides information; takes and relays messages; responds to request for service or assistance.

Maintains assigned animal control vehicle and work areas; preforms various cleaning, sanitary and maintenance task; operates various machinery, equipment, and tools associated with animal control activities, which includes assigned vehicle, catch poles, snake tongs, animal traps, leashes, mechanical tools, freezer, camera, computer, portable radio and other communication equipment. Performs general maintenance task to ensure the proper operation of animal control equipment.

Monitors equipment operation to maintain efficiency and safety; reports faulty equipment

Responds to after-hours emergency calls for service on a rotating basis.

This position may work days, nights, weekends, holidays and on call.

Operates a motor vehicle to conduct work activities.

This classification is designated as a safety sensitive position which is subject to random drug and alcohol testing and any other drug testing methods as stated in policies adopted by Forsyth County concerning drug and alcohol.

Performs general/clerical tasks, which may include answering telephone calls, making copies, sending/receiving faxes, filing documentation, or processing incoming/outgoing mail.

Performs other related duties as required.

High school diploma or GED; supplemented by at least six (6) months of previous work experience that provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.