Animal Control Officer
Position Overview:
Functions as an expert on animal control-related issues. Must be at least 21 years of age, have a high school diploma or equivalent, have a valid driver’s license, and submit to a background and motor vehicle check. Must successfully complete National Animal Control Association training. Must have a flexible schedule and be available to work an overnight, on-call shift in rotation with other Animal Control Officers (ACOs). Must successfully complete 60-day recruit training. Requires a strong commitment to the mission and purpose of Lexington-Fayette Animal Care and Control (LFACC) and the Lexington Humane Society (LHS). This is a non-exempt position reporting to the Assistant Chief of Animal Care and Control.
Key Accountabilities:
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Knows, understands, and enforces current laws and ordinances
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Completes all ACO activities consistent with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
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Prioritizes compassionate and humane treatment of animals
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Patrols the city and responds to calls from dispatch
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Picks up strays and animals in danger
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Achieves and maintains citation authority
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Interfaces with the public to inform, educate, and resolve animal-related issues
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Impounds, vaccinates, and houses animals per protocol
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Notifies owners of impounded animals
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Interprets situations, partners with the Vet Tech department when necessary, and provides basic care for animals as needed
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Responds positively to structured hierarchy and constructive feedback
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Maintains exemplary driving record
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Operates dispatch as needed
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Assists Cruelty Investigator as necessary
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Interfaces with other agencies and departments
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Compiles evidence and appears in court as necessary
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Processes incoming animals per protocol
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Completes paperwork as necessary
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Completes and maintains computerized documentation of animals
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
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Current laws and ordinances
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LFACC and relevant LHS SOP
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Word, Excel, and other applicable software
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Animal breeds, basic behavior, temperament, and care
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Excellent internal and external customer service skills
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Excellent verbal and written communication skills
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Strong organizational skills with an attention to detail
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Works in a team environment
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Self-motivates and works independently in a timely fashion
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Handles difficult situations
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Multitasks in a high- pressure environment
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Assimilates incoming information and immediately prioritizes
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Evaluates situations and determines correct level of response
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Makes decisions quickly and accurately
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Interfaces with other departments to ensure the humane care of animals
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Communicates respectfully with all levels of the organization
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Handles all types of animals, large and small
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Assesses animal sex, age, and breed type
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Lifts animals, sometimes weighing in excess of 60 lbs safely and humanely
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Handles vicious, sick, and dangerous animals
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Able to operate oversized vehicles lacking a rearview mirror
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Handles constant mental stress of life and death decision-making by other staff members
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Maintains flexibility and assists with what is needed for the betterment of the organization
