Position Summary
Animal Control Officers (ACOs) are responsible for enforcing local animal ordinances and responding to animal-related concerns throughout Anson County. This position plays a critical role in protecting public safety while ensuring the humane treatment of animals.
ACOs respond to calls involving stray, injured, dangerous, or neglected animals and safely transport animals to the Anson County Animal Shelter. This role works closely with the Shelter Director, shelter staff, veterinary providers, and the community to ensure safe, lawful, and humane outcomes.
Animal Control Officers also serve as educators and representatives of Anson County and FACAS, promoting responsible pet ownership, compliance with local laws, and awareness of available animal services.
Essential Qualifications
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly document incidents and communicate effectively with the public and internal staff
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and make sound decisions in high-stress or emergency situations
- Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and ability to conduct thorough investigations
- Ability to interact professionally, respectfully, and effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including in emotionally charged situations
- Ability to work independently while maintaining communication with supervisors and team members
- Basic computer proficiency or willingness to learn systems used for reporting, recordkeeping, and communication
Animal Handling Requirements
- Ability to safely and humanely handle animals of various sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions
- Willingness to work with frightened, injured, or aggressive animals using appropriate tools and techniques
- Commitment to maintaining humane animal handling practices at all times
Physical Requirements
This position requires the ability to:
- Lift and carry up to 50 pounds unassisted
- Walk, stand, bend, kneel, and perform physical tasks for extended periods
- Work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Safely operate an assigned vehicle and animal handling equipment
These requirements may be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.
Minimum Requirements
- High school diploma or GED preferred
- Valid driver’s license and ability to safely operate an assigned vehicle
- Clean driving history
- Reliable transportation to and from work
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including after-hours or emergency response as needed
Preferred Experience
- Experience in animal welfare, veterinary care, animal handling, law enforcement, or a related field
- Experience with report writing, investigations, or public-facing roles
Key Responsibilities
- Respond to calls regarding stray, injured, dangerous, or nuisance animals
- Safely capture, handle, and transport animals to the shelter or veterinary care as needed
- Investigate reports of animal cruelty, neglect, abandonment, and ordinance violations
- Provides impartial testimony in criminal proceedings regarding animal welfare and ordinance enforcement; accurately presents physical evidence, documents, and affidavits to the court
- Enforce local animal control ordinances in a fair, consistent, and professional manner
- Issue warnings or citations in accordance with county policies
- Prepare accurate, detailed reports of all incidents and actions taken
- Maintain and safely operate animal control vehicles and equipment
- Ensure vehicles and equipment are clean, organized, and in good working condition
- Assist in emergency and disaster response situations involving animals
- Coordinate with shelter staff to ensure proper intake, documentation, and care of animals
- Transport animals to veterinary clinics when necessary
- Maintain accurate records of animals impounded, returned to owners, or transferred
- Educate the public on responsible pet ownership, including licensing, vaccinations, and spay/neuter programs
- Respond to and maintain communication through official email and reporting systems
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Shelter Director
Work Environment & Expectations
Animal Control Officers frequently interact with the public and must demonstrate professionalism, fairness, and sound judgment at all times. This role requires the ability to manage stressful and sometimes emotionally difficult situations while prioritizing public safety and animal welfare.
ACOs are expected to:
- Maintain clear and consistent communication with supervisors
- Work collaboratively with shelter staff, law enforcement, and community partners
- Follow established procedures for investigations and documentation
- Accept feedback, demonstrate accountability, and continuously improve job performance
Additional Information
As part of our commitment to animal welfare and community safety, Friends of Anson County Animal Shelter requires a comprehensive background check for all final candidates. We evaluate criminal history in relation to the specific duties of the role, such as animal care, public interaction, and financial handling, in accordance with applicable fair hiring laws.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Friends of Anson County Animal Shelter is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status under applicable law.
Pay: From $48,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
