Job Description: Animal Control Officer
Reports To: Parish Administrator
FLSA Status: Exempt
Position Overview
The Animal Control Officer (ACO) for the Jefferson Davis Parish Police Jury is responsible for planning, developing, implementing, and managing the Parish's animal control and shelter operations. This position serves as the lead authority for enforcing Jefferson Davis Parish animal control ordinances, overseeing shelter operations, conducting investigations, and ensuring the humane treatment and care of animals.
The Animal Control Officer exercises independent judgment in the administration of the Parish's animal control program, including making decisions regarding impoundment, quarantine, rehabilitation, adoption eligibility, euthanasia, and disposition of animals in accordance with applicable laws, ordinances, policies, and accepted animal welfare practices. The ACO is also responsible for supervising shelter personnel, promoting animal adoptions, maintaining compliance with all applicable regulations, and continually improving shelter operations.
Key Responsibilities
Program Administration and Leadership
- Develop, implement, and administer the Jefferson Davis Parish Animal Control and Animal Shelter Program.
- Serve as the primary administrator responsible for enforcement of all Parish animal control ordinances and related policies.
- Supervise, hire, train, schedule, evaluate, and discipline subordinate shelter and animal control personnel.
- Establish standard operating procedures and ensure compliance with Parish policies and industry best practices.
- Develop annual operational goals and recommendations for improving animal control services.
- Maintain cooperative relationships with veterinarians, rescue organizations, volunteers, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations.
Animal Control Operations
- Enforce all Jefferson Davis Parish animal control ordinances and applicable state laws.
- Respond to complaints involving stray, dangerous, nuisance, neglected, abandoned, injured, or abused animals.
- Conduct investigations involving animal cruelty, neglect, dangerous dogs, livestock issues, and ordinance violations.
- Coordinate with law enforcement, the District Attorney, veterinarians, and other agencies as necessary.
- Prepare written reports, citations, investigative summaries, and court documentation.
- Appear in court and administrative proceedings when required.
Shelter Operations
- Direct the daily operation of the Jefferson Davis Parish Animal Shelter.
- Oversee animal intake, identification, medical evaluations, vaccinations, quarantine, and housing.
- Make final decisions regarding animal disposition, including adoption, transfer, rescue placement, or euthanasia, consistent with Parish policy and applicable law.
- Ensure proper sanitation, disease prevention, recordkeeping, and facility maintenance.
- Oversee inventory of food, medications, equipment, and shelter supplies.
Adoption and Community Outreach
- Develop and implement programs to increase animal adoptions and live-release outcomes.
- Coordinate adoption events, community outreach activities, volunteer programs, foster programs, and rescue partnerships.
- Promote responsible pet ownership through education and public engagement.
- Work with Parish administration and media to increase public awareness of shelter services and adoption opportunities.
Ordinances and Program Development
- Review existing animal control ordinances and recommend updates to improve effectiveness and reflect current best practices.
- Assist in developing policies, procedures, and educational materials for the public.
- Research grant opportunities and assist with implementation of grant-funded programs when requested.
Compliance and Safety
- Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing animal control and shelter operations.
- Maintain compliance with occupational safety requirements and proper handling of pharmaceuticals, controlled substances, and euthanasia solutions.
- Ensure humane animal handling practices at all times.
Administrative Responsibilities
- Prepare reports for the Parish Administrator and Police Jury as requested.
- Maintain accurate records of animal intake, disposition, investigations, citations, licenses, and shelter operations.
- Develop operational budgets and monitor expenditures.
- Respond professionally to citizen inquiries and complaints.
- Coordinate purchasing of shelter equipment, supplies, and services.
Additional Duties
- Assist with emergency response involving animals during hurricanes, floods, or other disasters.
- Represent Jefferson Davis Parish at meetings, conferences, and training related to animal control and shelter operations.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Parish Administrator or Police Jury.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Must possess and maintain a valid Louisiana driver's license.
- Previous supervisory or leadership experience required.
- Demonstrated experience handling domestic animals in a safe and humane manner.
- Ability to communicate effectively with the public and maintain professional working relationships.
- Ability to prepare reports, maintain records, and exercise sound judgment in difficult situations.
Preferred Qualifications
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, Public Administration, or a related field.
- Previous experience in animal control, animal shelter management, veterinary services, law enforcement, or a closely related field.
- Experience supervising employees and managing daily operations.
Required Certifications
The following certifications are required and shall be obtained at the following employment if not already possessed:
- Certification in the safe use of chemical immobilization (animal tranquilizers), including all required federal and state permits.
- Certification in humane euthanasia techniques and euthanasia drug administration.
- Animal Control Officer certification, if available through the State of Louisiana or nationally recognized organizations.
- Any additional certifications required by Louisiana law or Parish policy.
Failure to successfully complete required certifications within the timeframe established by the Parish may result in demotion.
Desired Skills and Attributes
- Strong leadership and supervisory abilities.
- Excellent decision-making and sound professional judgment.
- Thorough knowledge of animal behavior, humane handling techniques, and shelter management.
- Ability to conduct investigations and prepare detailed reports.
- Strong communication and public relations skills.
- Ability to effectively manage stressful or emotionally difficult situations.
- High level of organization and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently while exercising discretion and professionalism.
- Commitment to humane animal care and public service.
Working Conditions
- Work includes both office and outdoor environments with exposure to varying weather conditions.
- Frequent lifting, restraining, transporting, and handling of animals of various sizes and temperaments.
- Exposure to potentially dangerous animals, animal waste, chemicals, and zoonotic diseases.
- May require evening, weekend, holiday, or emergency response work.
- Must be able to respond to emergencies outside normal working hours.
Salary and Work Hours
- Salary: To be established by the Jefferson Davis Parish Police Jury.
- Hours: Standard workweek is Monday through Friday, with flexibility required for evenings, weekends, emergencies, disaster response, animal investigations, and special events.
Jefferson Davis Parish Police Jury is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Pay: From $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person
