WHO WE ARE
For over a century Associated Humane Societies have offered a haven to abused and neglected animals. Founded in 1906, AHS is the LARGEST animal sheltering system in New Jersey. We operate four shelters located in Newark, Tinton Falls, Forked River and Vineland. Our Forked River facility also includes Popcorn Park. Established in 1977, Popcorn Park is a sanctuary for abandoned, injured, ill, exploited, abused or elderly-exotic animals, birds, farm animals and wildlife (both domestic and exotic).
TALENT + CULTURE AT AHS
At AHS, we want our team and the animals in our care to feel safe, secure and valued. Animal Rescue is a very challenging and very rewarding environment. At AHS, we want to provide the best possible experience for our employees by providing a caring learning environment with opportunities for growth.
WHO WE NEED
AHS is looking for an energetic & enthusiastic Animal Control Officer. In this vital role, the Animal Control Officer will be promoting animal welfare and ensuring public safety by working closely with local health departments, law enforcement, and the community at large. The Animal Control Officer role is integral to harmonizing the needs of both animals and humans, reflecting our belief that animal welfare is an essential and vital aspect of public service.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO DO
- Responds to calls about stray, injured, or dangerous animals while providing appropriate assistance and intervention to ensure the welfare of animals is held to the highest esteem.
- Actively engages with the community to inform the public about responsible pet ownership, animal behavior, and responsible veterinary care.
- Investigates claims of animal cruelty, neglect, or dangerous animal behavior, thoroughly documenting findings and preparing reports for further action as necessary.
- Responds to emergency situations involving animals, ensuring public safety while delivering compassionate care to animals in distress, including during times of natural disasters or in cases of large volume.
- Serves as a liaison between community and government agencies; addressing concerns related to public safety and animal cruelty by working closely with health departments and local precincts while complying with state and local ordinances.
- Accurately records and maintains detailed notes in the shelter database for all animals brought in by the field team, ensuring all relevant information is stored accordingly.
- Organizes workshops, community events, school lectures, and informational sessions to enhance awareness of animal welfare issues while partnering with local community groups.
- Transports animals to partner shelters and rescues as well as to offsite veterinary appointments as needed.
- Frequently patrols in contracted towns to ensure a public presence.
- Assists with tasks inside the shelter as needed including walking dogs and cleaning enclosures.
WHAT YOU NEED
Must have at least 2 years of animal shelter experience. - Must hold valid certification as an animal control officer in the state of NJ. - Genuine commitment to animal and human welfare.
Possess a valid driver's license and demonstrates flexibility to work irregular hours, including weekends and holidays. Field Specialists are required to be on-call for overnight shifts at least two nights per week - Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to engage effectively with diverse community members. Spanish speaking is a plus. - Experience in animal handling and knowledge of animal behavior; embracing the fear free philosophy. - willing to work with different species of animals including cats, dogs, small animals, and different forms of wildlife. - Have good physical stamina as this role is often labor intensive, particularly when handling large dogs. - Ability to work in a high-stress environment with a calm and compassionate demeanor, understanding that euthanasia is also sometimes performed.
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in fundraising in a non-profit organization.
- Demonstrated strength in relationship management.
- Demonstrated ability to cultivate, solicit & close gifts.
- Exceptional leadership skills, strategic judgment, and creative vision.
- Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to identify, cultivate, acquire, and steward grants and sponsorship funding from foundations and corporations.
- Ability to communicate, represent and discuss strategies with donors and board members.
- Ability to work independently and travel to meetings and conferences as needed.
- Ability to plan and oversee donor site visits.
- Experience with developing and following a budget and managing organizational financial resources.
- Ability to self-energize and to self-assess and seek to learn areas of the job that may require training and study to master.
- Knowledge of the social, philanthropic, and business leadership of New Jersey & the tri-state area.
- Ability to mobilize others to fulfill the mission and vision of AHS with passion and optimism.
- Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.
AHS believes strongly in diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We’re looking forward to meeting you!
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $23.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Experience:
- Animal Control: 1 year (Required)
- Animal Welfare: 1 year (Required)
Work Location: In person
