Enforces city and state animal ordinances by apprehending and confining loose, dangerous, or unlicensed animals, issuing citations, and investigating cases of animal cruelty and of aggressive or dangerous animals. Patrols city limits and responds to citizen complaints. Compiles case reports and appears as a court witness as needed. Submits monthly activity records to administrative sergeant.

Job Scope:

This position involves recurring work situations with occasional variations from the norm. The Animal Control Officer operates from established and well known policies and procedures, but must frequently make judgment calls regarding the proper application and interpretation of these policies and procedures. A moderate degree of complexity is involved in the knowledge, interpretation, and application of various animal codes and ordinances, and in then communicating these codes and ordinances to the public. The incumbent will operate independently, under minimal supervision. All reports and citations are reviewed by a supervisor. An error in work could potentially impact the health and safety of citizens in the community.

Supervisory Responsibility:

This is not a supervisory position.

Interpersonal Contacts:

This position involves frequent communication with others both inside and outside the City. Internal contacts are usually made with Police Department staff or supervisors. External contacts are made with a wide variety of individuals, mainly citizens of Washougal and Camas. Most contacts are made on the incumbent’s own initiative. These contacts frequently contain discussion about confidential or sensitive matters, necessitating discretion at all times. A large majority of contacts are made face to face with the public but also may be made on the phone or by email.

Job Conditions:

The current working schedule is 4 on/4 off rotating schedule consisting of a primary day shift and a “swing/day” shift. The schedule includes alternating working days including weekends. On-call status and evening meetings may be required. Work is performed in both inside and outside environments, in the office, on patrol, and investigating cases. The incumbent may be exposed to high noise levels, confined spaces, adverse conditions, communicable diseases, possible verbal and/or physical abuse from hostile or disoriented individuals, dealing with armed or otherwise dangerous persons, dealing with dangerous or aggressive animals, and threat to personal safety. Heavy lifting may be required. The position will frequently deal with sensitive and stressful situations. The incumbent will be required to testify in court as necessary in various cases. Extensive local travel is involved for patrol and traveling to various locations to investigate. The job includes a significant amount of computer work, with eight or more hours per week being devoted to report writing. The Animal Control Officer is responsible for the various equipment and/or vehicle under his or her control. This position is also responsible for the handling of highly confidential records.

Essential Functions/Major Responsibilities:

Respond to citizen complaints and reports regarding animal control issues
Patrol cities of Washougal and Camas; identify violations of animal ordinances and determine correct course of action
Issue citations for city ordinance violations
Apprehend and confine loose or unlicensed animals
Subdue dangerous or frightened animals
Investigate cases of animal cruelty and animal deaths
Investigate aggressive animal and animal bite cases
Collect and assemble evidence as necessary; photograph and log case information into files
Transport sick and injured animals
Compile case reports; maintain animal control records
Testify in court as a witness as necessary
Remove animals from vehicles and/or residences to assist in issuance of search warrants, evictions, and/or arrests
Participate in ongoing trainings and certifications
Other duties as assigned

Secondary Functions:

Assist Washougal and Camas Police Departments, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Clark County Animal Control, and Clark County Sheriff’s Office when requested
Perform field euthanasia of nuisance, sick, or injured wildlife
Remove deceased animals
Participate in community events and educate citizens on animal care and safety and animal ordinances

Job Specific Skills and Knowledge:

Knowledge of and ability to interpret and apply animal codes and ordinances
Knowledge of a variety of animal breeds
Understanding of City landmarks and geography; understanding of general geography of neighboring cities/counties
Ability to subdue dangerous or frightened animals
Ability to remain calm, think clearly, and act quickly in emergency situations
Ability to use courage and discernment in potentially dangerous situations
Ability to use tact and communicate effectively with the public and coworkers
Ability to communicate and/or negotiate with angry or upset citizens and pet owners
Ability to use a digital camera and two-way radio
Skill in animal handling; knowledge of common practices and methods
Excellent analytical and investigative skills; attention to detail
Safe and efficient driving skills
Demonstrate knowledge of and ability to safely use and qualify with a weapon.
Working knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet software for report writing and analysis.

Mental Activities:

Interpersonal, teamwork, and customer service skills
Ability to speak, understand, read, and write English
Problem analysis and decision making skills
Creative skills
Negotiation skills
Ability to exercise independent judgment and/or independent action
Ability to exercise discretion in sensitive or confidential matters

Physical Activities:

Frequent standing, walking, stooping, repetitive motions of the feet, reaching, sitting, bending, kneeling, grasping, handling, feeling, repetitive motions of the hands and wrists
Continuous talking and hearing
Occasional running
Ability to push, pull, lift, and carry up to 80 pounds
Ability to drive for an extended period of time

High school education or equivalent
Washington State Criminal Justice Training System (WSCJTC) Animal Control Academy Certification (80 hours)
Completion of Field Training Officer Program (240 hours)
Taser Certification, Pepper Spray Certification, Bite Stick Certification
Two years’ experience in customer service

City of Washougal

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Animal Control Officer