The City of Laguna Beach is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Animal Services Officer to help protect the health and safety of both residents and animals. Under general supervision of Police administrative staff, this position provides information to the public and enforces laws pertaining to the possession, ownership and control of animals within the Cities of Laguna Beach and Laguna Woods.
Reports to/Supervises: Reports to the Police Civilian Supervisor and/or Watch Commander
Apply now to be part of the first review! Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis, with the next review on Monday, July 27, 2026.
What You'll Do
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Patrol neighborhoods, parks, beaches, and open spaces to respond to animal-related calls and enforce local and state animal control laws.
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Capture, transport, and safely handle stray, injured, sick, aggressive, or wild animals, ensuring appropriate care and shelter placement.
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Investigate animal complaints, bites, neglect, cruelty, and other animal-related incidents; issue warnings and citations as appropriate.
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Respond to emergencies, including after-hours calls, and assist with public safety incidents when needed.
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Educate residents on responsible pet ownership, licensing, vaccinations, and animal regulations through community outreach and presentations.
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Conduct licensing compliance efforts by canvassing neighborhoods, verifying vaccinations, and enforcing licensing requirements.
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Prepare reports, case files, citations, and court documents; testify in court and support legal proceedings involving animal control violations.
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Maintain accurate records of impounded animals, investigations, and enforcement activities.
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Assist with daily operations at the Animal Shelter, including animal care and kennel support as needed.
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Maintain assigned vehicles, equipment, and tools to ensure safe and effective field operations.
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Perform other related public safety and animal welfare duties as assigned.
The normal duties for the positions can be found in the job descriptions Animal Services Officer. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.
Any combination demonstrating the ability to effectively and successfully perform the duties of the position is considered qualifying. A typical combination is as follows:
Education: Graduation from high school or equivalent.
Experience: Considerable public contact experience and experience in handling domestic and other animals is required. Must have at least one year experience in an animal shelter facility, animal control, code enforcement, veterinary hospital or equivalent.
License/Certificate Requirements: Due to the performance of some field duties, which requires the operation of a personal or City vehicle, a valid California Driver's license and an acceptable driving record are required. In order to successfully pass probation, the employee must possess the following certifications within 12 months of hire: 1) P.O.S.T. P.C. 832 Certificate; and 2) Euthanasia by Injection Certificate from Cal Animals or a similar California animal welfare organization.
This recruitment will establish an eligibility list that may be used to fill future vacancies in the same or lower classifications.
Application/Selection Process: Applications will be screened carefully, and selected applicants will be invited to participate in the Structured Panel Interview. The appointing hiring authority will further review the job-related qualifications of those deemed eligible for hire before making selection decisions. The selection process may be modified based on the needs of the City.
Pre-employment Process: Selected candidates must successfully pass a Police background investigation, a thorough reference check/employment verification, and a pre-employment medical exam including a drug test.
Why work for Laguna Beach: Laguna Beach is a beautiful coastal city located in Orange County, California, with a vibrant art scene and cultural events. We offer competitive compensation and benefits packages, including City paid health insurance for employees, retirement plans, and paid time off. The City has a strong commitment to its employees, providing opportunities for professional growth and development through training and education programs.
Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Laguna Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. We encourage you to inform Human Resources at least two business days prior to the first phase of the selection process if you have a disability that may require an accommodation. EEO/ADA.
