Animal Control Officer I

Requisition ID: 43552 

Organization

Located on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Peoples, Vancouver has a commitment to becoming a City of Reconciliation. Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable and environmentally sustainable cities. Named among Canada's Top 100 Employers, BC's Top Employers, and Canada's Greenest Employers, the City of Vancouver seeks colleagues who can help shape and embody our core commitments to sustainability, reconciliation, equity and outstanding quality of life for all residents.

Consider joining our committed team of staff and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.

Main Purpose and Function
The Animal Control Officer I position performs a variety of animal control and compliance functions, including patrolling assigned areas; enforcing the animal control by-law and regulations; responding to animal control inquiries and complaints from the public; issuing citations and warnings; educating the public on responsible pet ownership and animal control by-laws; and performing all animal related public safety duties.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Investigates complaints related to by-law infractions and issues written notices or tickets for violations.  Attends complaints regarding barking or biting dogs and advises owners and complainants of the result. Assists Animal Control Officer II investigations as required.
• Communicate with and advise owners of loose animals.
• Patrol City streets, parks, neighborhoods, and/or other designated areas in order to monitor, remove, transport, and locate stray, vicious, trapped, injured animals.
• Impound stray animals; photograph, and process impounded animals prior to kenneling; transport injured animals to veterinary hospitals for treatment when required.
• Assist law enforcement personnel and other agencies by taking animals into custody due to death, emergencies, arrests, and/or police investigations. 
• Educate the public regarding animal control laws, licensing requirements, owner responsibilities.
• Make appropriate decisions regarding enforcement action when necessary.
• Compile case evidence and prepare animal control cases, including recommending charges for charge approval.
• Provide evidence in court.
• Safely defend the public from vicious or uncontrollable animals as necessary.
• Maintain and safeguard assigned equipment and supplies such as notebooks, computers, and animal control vehicles. 
• Operate a computer and a two-way radio to maintain close communication with dispatching personnel and officers. 
• Prepare and maintain a variety of animal control records, documentation, and reports.
• Provide courteous and professional customer service to those contacted in the course of work. 
• Other related duties/responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Completion of the twelfth school grade supplemented by courses related to animal care and experience in enforcement & investigation, OR equivalent combination of related experience and education
• Experience in the care and handling of dogs and other animals.
• Experience in customer service and/public education is an asset.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the by-laws, regulations, policies and procedures as it relates to the work performed.
• Considerable knowledge of City geography.
• Considerable knowledge of the principles, methods and equipment used in handling and caring of vicious, stray, sick and/or maimed animals.
• Ability to deal tactfully and responsibly with public complaints and inquiries.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to interpret and explain City By-law policies and regulations.
• Ability to promote and maintain harmonious relationships with Departmental staff, outside agencies and the business community.
• Ability to maintain detailed records on various aspects of the program.
• Ability to prepare and present evidence and to conduct oneself in a suitable manner in court.
• A current and valid BC Driver’s License is a requirement of this position. The license must not include any restrictions that would affect the ability to legally and safely carry out job responsibilities.
• A Police Record Check clearance is required for this position. A clearance requires the absence of any criminal charges or convictions related to this position.

This position will operate on a fortnight schedule on a compressed work week across Wednesday - Sunday.

 A Police Record Check is a requirement of this position.  A clearance requires the absence of any criminal charges or convictions related to this position.

Drivers License and Record Checks

Candidates must attach the following records and satisfy the City’s driving requirements to be considered for this role:

• Copy of your five-year ICBC Commercial Driver’s Abstract (N Print) directly from ICBC dated within 14 days of this posting
• Copy of your five-year ICBC Driver’s Claims History directly from ICBC within 14 days of this posting
• If you have less than five years driving experience in BC, a request must be made for out of province/country abstract and claims history

Business Unit/Department: Development, Buildings & Licensing (1250) 

Affiliation: CUPE 15 Non Pks 

Employment Type: Regular Full Time 

Position Start Date: April 2025 

Salary Information: Pay Grade GR-018: $32.92 to $38.75 per hour

Application Close: April 6, 2025

At the City of Vancouver, we are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that represents the community we so proudly serve. Indigenous peoples, people of colour, 2SLGBTQ+ persons including all genders and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.  Accommodations will be provided upon request during the selection process. Learn more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion. 

Before you click Apply now

Once you start your application you can save your work and leave the applications page, however please remember to submit your profile to the specific job requisition before the posting closing date.

In addition to uploading your cover letter and resume, part of the application process may include answering application questions related to the preferred requirements of the role which may take approx. 5-10 minutes. Cover letters should express interest and highlight additional information relevant to the position and resumes should include a summary of skills and experience related to the position.