Supervisor Animal Control

Requisition ID: 43559 

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

This specialized position is responsible for the daily supervision and leadership for designated field officers The Supervisor(s) will conduct and oversee investigation, patrol and regulatory work, and ensure staff is assigned to designated areas of the municipality to educate citizens on animal related regulations and enforce bylaws as needed.  The work requires considerable public relations contact which requires the exercise of independent judgement, action, tact, diplomacy, and some discretion in enforcing regulations and making field decisions as to the disposition of complaints within policy, bylaw and regulation limits. 

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee, schedule and assign field officers to proactively address animal contraventions in order to respond to public complaints.
• Assign and manage high priority tasks using a risk-based approach to prioritize staff workload and ensure that patrol/investigative teams are deployed in a manner that satisfies public safety & licensing requirements.
• Ensure field officers are properly orientated and trained.
• Check and review work of assigned staff for accuracy, completeness, and conformance with legal frameworks and operational policies and procedures.
• Manage attendance and conduct performance reviews for all directly assigned staff.
• Ensure that vehicles and equipment are maintained and that accident reports are completed.
• Investigate, track and oversee complaints; ensure affected parties are updated on action taken by Animal Control Officers.
• Educate citizens and enforce the Animal Control Bylaw and licensing regulations.
• Issue warning notices, offence notices, orders to comply and tickets.
• Gather evidence required for court and attend court to present evidence.
• Capture and oversee the seizure/impound of animals, and transportation of stray and dangerous animals.
• Investigate and oversee complaints regarding animal related bylaw violations, including biting, barking dogs or dangerous/aggressive behaviour.
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Completion of Grade 12 supplemented by two years post-secondary courses in Criminal Justice, Business Administration or equivalent
• Considerable related experience in by-law enforcement and investigation including experience in a supervisory position.
• Experience in the care and handling of dogs and other animals.
• Courses related to enforcement, investigation and conflict resolution (i.e. Bylaw Enforcement and Investigative Skills Certificate, Justice Institute of British Columbia) considered an asset.
• Valid class 5 British Columbia Driver’s Licence with a safe and responsible driving record
• RCMP/Police Security Clearance

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated ability to successfully create, lead, coach and motivate an effective team.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, supervise and review the work of assigned staff tasked with compliance and enforcement initiatives.
• Ability to prepare and oversee cases for trial, testify and oversee court prosecutions, prepare long form prosecutions and liaise with legal counsel.
• Considerable knowledge of investigative, and court processes and experience providing evidence in court.
• Ability to plan, develop, implement and ensure policies and procedures for animal control are followed.
• Considerable knowledge of the bylaws and regulations governing the work performed as well as the knowledge of the methods, procedures and equipment used in catching and handling at large, dangerous, stray, sick, and maimed animals.
• Considerable knowledge in and the ability to use equipment used for capturing and handling dangerous animals.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Proven ability to successfully contact the public in a diplomatic, tactful and reasonable discreet manner and to use established leadership skills to maintain positive relationships with staff.
• Ability to safely operate vehicles in the Animal Control Fleet.
• Considerable knowledge of canine temperament and behaviour, canine breeds and breed specific characteristics and related theory and technique.

Where operationally appropriate and subject to change, the City of Vancouver has a Flexible Work Program. This program allows staff to work remotely 1 – 4 days a week from locations that are a daily commutable distance from their work at a City worksite.  At this time this position is eligible to be part of the Flexible Work Program.

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-021: $37.2 to $43.78 per hour

Application Close: April 4, 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. 

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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.