Animal Control Officer
Organization: Northeastern Connecticut Council of Governments (NECCOG)
Location: Dayville & Norwich, Connecticut
Position Type: Full-Time
Schedule: Varies (includes evenings, weekends, holidays, and on-call rotation)
Position Overview
The Northeastern Connecticut Council of Governments (NECCOG) is seeking a dedicated, professional, and community-oriented Animal Control Officer (ACO) to support operations at our Dayville and Norwich facilities. This position requires shared responsibilities between both locations and active fieldwork throughout our member municipalities. The ACO plays a critical role in protecting public safety, ensuring humane treatment of animals, enforcing state and local animal control laws, and supporting the overall mission of NECCOG’s Animal Services Program.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Respond to animal-related complaints, emergencies, and service calls
- Enforce Connecticut animal control statutes and local ordinances
- Capture and transport stray, injured, or dangerous animals safely and humanely
- Conduct field investigations involving bites, neglect, cruelty, nuisance complaints, and livestock issues
- Prepare reports, citations, and court documentation as required
- Assist with shelter operations including intake, care coordination, and reunification efforts
- Work collaboratively with law enforcement, veterinary providers, and municipal officials
- Participate in adoption events and community outreach
- Maintain vehicles, equipment, and facilities
- Rotate on-call coverage as scheduled
Minimum Qualifications
- Must be at least 20 years old
- Certification as an Animal Control Officer in the State of Connecticut (or ability to obtain certification within required timeframe)
- High school diploma or GED (Associate’s degree in animal field preferred)
- Valid Connecticut driver’s license with clean driving record
- Ability to handle animals of all sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently and make sound decisions under pressure
- Ability to lift 50+ pounds and work in various weather conditions
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior animal control, law enforcement, veterinary, or animal shelter experience
- Knowledge of Connecticut animal control laws and regulations
- Experience with report writing and court testimony
- Familiarity with shelter management software
Physical & Environmental Requirements
This position involves outdoor fieldwork in all weather conditions, exposure to potentially dangerous animals, and occasional high-stress situations requiring sound judgment and professionalism.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit resume and cover letter to [email protected]
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
NECCOG is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
