Humane Officer

Overview

Norfolk, Virginia is America s most authentic and urban waterfront city. Norfolk is approximately 66 square miles with a population of 244,000 and growing. Home to the world s largest naval station and the business, arts, and cultural center of Coastal Virginia, Norfolk has been rated a top place to live, work, play, and raise a family by numerous publications. The Norfolk Animal Protection Unit is committed to ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of both animals and citizens in the City of Norfolk.

Humane Officers serve as educators, enforcers, and advocates, promoting responsible pet ownership and compassion for animals. Our goal is to alleviate the suffering of animals, uphold public safety, and build stronger community awareness through humane education and law enforcement.

Performs duties involving the protection and control of animals, enforcement of animal related codes and protection of public safety. Apprehends, transports, secures, and disposes of animals in accordance with state and local laws under direction of Humane Officer II.

*** The departmental hiring rate for this position is $45,858.46 annually***

• Investigate reports of animal cruelty, neglect, abandonment, and other animal related violations.
• Collect evidence, interview witnesses, and take appropriate enforcement actions in accordance with local, state and federal laws.
• Respond to complaints regarding stray, nuisance, or dangerous animals.
• Enforce leash laws, rabies vaccination requirements, and other regulations.
• Safely capture and transport animals using specialized equipment and city vehicles.
• Educate the public on responsible pet ownership and humane treatment practices.
• Prepare accurate reports, maintain records, and compile case files for court.
• Testify in legal proceedings related to animal violations.
• Collaborate with the Norfolk Animal Care Center (NACC), other local animal control agencies, animal shelters, and animal rescue groups.
• Perform routine patrols and welfare checks across the city of Norfolk

Work requires knowledge necessary to understand basic operational, technical, or office processes. Level of knowledge equivalent to a High School Diploma or equivalency.

One year of experience as a sworn Police Officer; or one year of animal handling experience in an animal shelter, veterinary practice, animal control or equivalent. Valid Driver s License.

Animal Control Officer Basic Academy, Special Police Officer, Euthanasia Certification (within 12 months of employment).

Various days of the week with possible schedule rotations