Animal Control Officer

CITY OF LUFKIN; Lufkin (TX); On-site; USD 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Lufkin is seeking an Animal Control Officer in the Animal Services Department. You will enforce animal control ordinances, respond to public complaints, and help protect the welfare of animals and the community.

This essential role requires field work, on-call availability, and a commitment to humane practices. Qualifications include a high school diploma, a Texas driver’s license, and ACO certification within six months.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Valid Texas Driver's License at time of placement is required.
• Must complete and pass ACO Certification Course within the first 6 months of employment.

Responsibilities

• Patrols to identify animal-related issues and respond to complaints and emergencies within designated areas of the city.
• Investigates reports of animal cruelty, neglect, and ordinance violations, taking appropriate actions.
• Safely capture and restrain animals using humane methods.
• Impalnd animals as necessary with proper documentation and care.
• Provide education to the public on responsible pet ownership and local ordinances.
• Enforce licensing and permit regulations, issuing citations and educating pet owners.
• Perform euthanasia procedures when required following protocols.
• Respond to emergency situations, including disasters or disease outbreaks, to assist in rescues and sheltering.
• Provide testimony in court proceedings and maintain accurate records.
• Available for emergency calls.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Knowledge of animal laws

Problem solving

Communication skills

Physical strength

Education

High School Diploma

Job description

Position: Animal Control Officer

Department: Animal Services

Reports To: Animal Services Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Pay: $17.51

DESCRIPTION

Responsible for enforcing animal control ordinances, responding to public complaints, and ensuring the safety and well-being of both animals and the community.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Certification in safe and humane animal handling techniques is preferred.
• Previous experience in animal control, law enforcement, or a related field is preferred.
• Valid Texas Driver's License at time of placement is required.
• Must complete and pass ACO Certification Course required by Texas Department of Health and Euthanasia Certification within the first 6 months of employment.
• Must live in Angelina County or be within 30 minutes for on-call purposes.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge and thorough understanding of local, state, and federal animal control laws and regulations.
• Skills in strong problem-solving to assess and address a variety of animal-related situations in the field.
• Skills in effective communication, both verbal and written, for interacting with the public, fellow officers, and other stakeholders.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting, carrying, and restraining animals of various sizes.

MAJOR DUTIES

• Conduct routine patrols to identify and respond to animal-related issues, complaints, and emergencies within designated areas of the city.
• Investigate reports of animal cruelty, neglect, and violations of animal control ordinances, taking appropriate actions in accordance with established procedures.
• Safely and humanely capture and restrain animals, utilizing appropriate equipment and techniques, with a focus on minimizing stress and harm.
• Carry out the impoundment of animals as necessary, ensuring accurate documentation, and adherence to protocols for proper care and housing.
• Provide education to the public on responsible pet ownership, local ordinances, and safety measures related to interactions with animals.
• Enforce animal licensing and permit regulations, issuing citations for non-compliance and educating pet owners on the importance of compliance.
• Perform euthanasia procedures when required, following established protocols and ensuring humane practices.
• Respond to emergency situations, including natural disasters or disease outbreaks, to assist in animal rescue, evacuation, and sheltering.
• Provide testimony in court proceedings related to animal control cases, presenting evidence and ensuring accurate documentation.
• Maintain accurate records of activities, investigations, citations, and impoundments in accordance with departmental policies.
• Available for emergency calls.
• Other duties as assigned.

This position is an essential service position and will require providing services during emergency situations.

Visit our website www.cityoflufkin.com or contact the Human Resources Department at Lufkin City Hall, 300 E. Shepherd Ave., Suite 226, Lufkin, TX 75901, Phone [phone].