Animal Protection Officer

The current vacancy is in Ukiah, CA. The list developed from this recruitment will be used for a limited period to fill open and promotional, regular full-time, and part-time positions should they occur.

Under direct supervision, in a learning capacity at the entry/trainee level, and general supervision at the journey level, enforces state laws and county ordinances pertaining to the control, and licensing of animals.

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

• Patrol in a county vehicle for violations of animal laws; issue citations for violations of applicable regulations, as well as verbal and written warnings.
• Respond courteously and diplomatically to the general public, including hostile or irate people, to provide appropriate level of customer service.
• Conduct inspections of pet stores, boarding kennels and related businesses for compliance with county ordinances and state statutes; inspects residential properties for compliance with animal permits and suitable containment of animals.
• Research and update computerized records; prepare a variety of department reports.
• Assist law enforcement agencies at crime scenes, evictions, accidents and other situations where animals are present.
• Transport sick or injured animals to the Animal Shelter or Veterinarian as appropriate; determine if a sick or injured animal presents a public health risk.
• Capture and impound wild, stray, unlicensed domestic animals and livestock running at large.
• Capture abused/neglected, injured, sick, abandoned, dead, or aggressive animals; quarantines animals suspected of being rabid, if needed.
• Investigate reported possible rabies exposure from animal bites to humans and wild animal bites to domestic owned animals.
• Investigate reports of animal abuse/neglect; animal bites, investigate livestock loss due to dogs.
• Promote good public relations by educating pet owners on laws, codes and ordinances pertaining to control of animals, spaying/neutering pets, vaccinating and licensing pets; filing of complaints; conduct or assist with education programs for schools and groups on animal control issues.
• Prepare documentation and court case reports; appears and testifies in court as required.
• Maintain records and logs relating to firearm discharges, and control and capture of animals. Maintain firearms and equipment.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

Education and Experience:

High School diploma or GED equivalent and six (6) months of progressively responsible experience involving public contact, animal control, professional handling of animals, or law enforcement experience.

Completion of Basic State (CA) Humane Officer Academy - within one (1) year of appointment.

Completion of Penal Code 832 Training - within one (1) year of appointment.

* Upon recommendation of the Director of Animal Care Services and approval by the Human Resources Director, Animal Protection Officer I incumbents may be promoted to Animal Protection Officer II upon the successful completion of the Basic State (CA) Human Officer Academy, PC832 and the field training program.

Special Requirements:

Must successfully pass pre-employment criminal history and other background checks; must not be prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.

Licenses and Certifications:

Valid Driver's License.
Basic State (CA) Human Officer Academy - within one (1) year of appointment.
Completion of Penal Code 832 training - within one (1) year of appointment.

Knowledge of:

• Applicable state, federal, and local ordinances, laws, rules, and regulations.
• Record keeping, report writing techniques and report preparation, filing methods, and records management techniques.
• Characteristic animal breeds (wild and domestic), common diseases, and animal behavior.
• Techniques and procedures for safe, humane and efficient handling of animals.
• Local geography, topography, and street locations.
• Customer Service practices including techniques for dealing with the public in a tactful and firm manner.
• General office procedures, policies, and practices, as well as basic knowledge of computer and other general office equipment.
• Correct English usage, including spelling, grammar,…