Animal Control & Welfare Officer

City of Decatur, AL; Decatur (AL); On-site; USD 32,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Decatur, AL is seeking an Animal Control Officer to enforce local ordinances and state laws while protecting the health and welfare of animals and the community.

The role involves field and shelter work, responding to complaints, transporting animals, educating the public, and preparing cases for enforcement. It requires calmness, professionalism, and teamwork with veterinarians and staff.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to read, write, and perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Experience sufficient to demonstrate the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the essential functions; animal control, animal shelter, veterinary, kennel, law enforcement, or related experience is preferred.
• Proficiency with computers, including Microsoft Office and job-related software.

Responsibilities

• Respond to citizen complaints, animal-related calls, and emergency situations, including after-hours emergencies as assigned.
• Enforce City animal control ordinances and applicable state laws and regulations.
• Capture, restrain, remove, and safely transport stray, dangerous, injured, abused, or otherwise uncontrolled animals.
• Investigate reports involving animal bites, attacks, cruelty, neglect, abandonment, and other animal-related violations.
• Interview complainants, witnesses, animal owners, and other involved parties; gather information and evidence; and prepare detailed written reports.
• Issue warnings and citations for violations when authorized and appropriate, and coordinate with law enforcement when additional enforcement action is necessary.
• Prepare documentation and evidence for cases referred for prosecution and testify in court when required.
• Locate and notify animal owners when their animals are impounded and assist owners with information regarding applicable procedures.
• Examine animals for visible signs of injury, illness, neglect, malnutrition, or other concerning conditions and arrange for veterinary care when necessary.
• Provide appropriate food, water, cleaning, handling, and general care for animals housed at the shelter.
• Assist with animal euthanasia procedures as required and in accordance with applicable laws, policies, and certification requirements.
• Educate pet owners and members of the public regarding responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and applicable animal control laws and regulations.
• Maintain accurate records of animal impoundments, dispositions, enforcement activities, and related cases.
• Operate animal control vehicles, equipment, and related tools safely and appropriately.
• Work cooperatively with veterinarians, animal rescue organizations, shelter volunteers, law enforcement, City employees, and members of the public.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Animal control

Animal shelter

Law enforcement

Public safety

Customer service

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job-related software

Job description

The City of Decatur, AL is seeking an Animal Control Officer to enforce local ordinances and state laws while protecting the health and welfare of animals and the community.

The role involves field and shelter work, responding to complaints, transporting animals, educating the public, and preparing cases for enforcement. It requires calmness, professionalism, and teamwork with veterinarians and staff.