Animal Control Officer

POSITION SUMMARY

We are pleased to offer the current job opportunity for an Animal Control Officer position in the Animal Services Department. DuPage County Animal Services (DCAS) is an immediate open admission shelter caring for more than 2,300 animals of varying species annually. The Animal Control Officer assists in the safe and effective apprehension, rescue and control of animals, both wild and/or domestic.

This position is eligible for our complete benefit package including medical, dental and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, pension, deferred compensation plan, tuition reimbursement, pre-paid legal and credit union. As a team member at DuPage County, you will also have access to time off with pay on Designated Holidays or holiday pay if required to work, Vacation time, Sick time and Paid Leave. To learn more about the cost and coverage of the benefits plan, visit Employees Benefit Information.

For detailed information on paid time off, visit Employee Policy Manual, Section 5

DuPage County is an equal opportunity employer

RESPONSIBILITIES

Investigates and responds to stray, unwanted, neglected, sick and injured animals as required for rabies control and humane treatment

Responds to complaints from residents

Investigates animal law violations, public safety concerns, alleged nuisances and humane complaints

Investigates and processes dangerous/vicious dog reports and declarations

Records and maintains written logs related to animal bites, and other animal control reporting requirements

Performs follow-up work on bite reports, complaints and ordinance compliance

Contacts victims and owners and coordinates rabies observation efforts with appropriate authorities

Counsels and provides education for citizens in responsible pet ownership including dangerous dogs and basic humane care

Serves as a resource for citizens, veterinary community, and local authorities for questions pertaining to the Animal Control Act, Humane Care Act, and responsible pet ownership

Issues citations for violation of the Animal Control Act and Humane Care Acts and County ordinance

Testifies in court

Assists public in surrendering or reclaiming animals

Performs emergency euthanasia for suffering animals

Collects, prepares, documents and delivers specimens for rabies testing

Maintains cages and related equipment

Maintains records and prepares reports

REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE

Requirements include the following experience or equivalent combination of training and experience:

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Completion of a High School Diploma or general Equivalency Diploma equivalent and

One (1) year of animal science or related course work and

One (1) year of experience working as an officer in an animal control or animal shelter

Credit to meet these qualifications will be granted to former interns of DuPage County Animal Care and Control.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

Must possess and maintain in good standing a valid Illinois Driver’s License.

Must obtain Euthanasia Technician Certificate within one year of hire.

A pre-employment background check is required.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Heavy Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Use of arm and /or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than for medium work.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The work will occur in an office and field environment. The work will occur in an environment with highly emotional situations. While performing the duties and responsibilities the employee will be exposed to animal bites and/or scratches, loud noises, noxious odors, unsanitary conditions, exposure to human and animal remains in varying states of decomposition, varying weather conditions and situations. The position is subject to 24/7 call out due to after hours on-call assistance on a pre-assigned, seven-day rotating schedule (including nights, weekends and holidays).