Animal Control Officer I
Requisition ID: 43872
rganization
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 engaging workplace. Working at the City of Vancouver and within the public service can be a rewarding career where you play a key role in ensuring impartial and equitable access to services, upholding ethical governance, and addressing the needs of citizens with integrity and dedication.
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.