Animal Services Officer I
Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Experience: One (1) year of animal handling and/or customer service. Any work-related experience resulting in acceptable proficiency levels in the above Minimum Qualifications is an acceptable substitute for the above specified education and experience requirements. Licenses and Certifications: Must possess a valid Texas Driver’s License (must obtain within 30 days of hire per state law). Must possess or have the ability to obtain the Texas Basic Animal Control Officer Certification within one (1) year of hire; must obtain the Texas Certified Euthanasia Technician certification within 120 days from the date of hire per state law. Must obtain and maintain all required licenses and certifications in accordance with applicable State laws and/or City policies.
Under close supervision, the Animal Services Officer completes a designated training period to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to enforce State laws and City of Plano ordinances regarding animal regulations. Provides excellence in customer service to citizens, and provides appropriate and humane care to Shelter animals Distinguishing Characteristics: This is the entry-level classification in the Animal Control Officer series. The incumbent follows routine procedures and guidelines in the application of prescribed duties and works under close supervision with work frequently reviewed by a superior. This classification is distinguished from the Animal Services Officer II in that the latter performs more complex technical duties requiring a higher level of knowledge and skill.
Are you passionate about animal welfare and ready to embark on a dynamic career where you make a real difference every day? The City of Plano is excited to announce an exciting opportunity for individuals eager to join our team as an Animal Services Officer.
As a trainee Animal Services Officer, you will be at the forefront of ensuring the well-being of our community’s animals. Here’s what you’ll be learning:
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Dive into the world of animal control by mastering the operation of computer-aided dispatch (CAD) and shelter software system. You’ll be dispatching field calls, processing daily reports, and embracing the latest technology to enhance your efficiency.
- Safe Operations: Learn to operate City animal services vehicles with precision, always adhering to State laws and City policies. Acquire the skills to utilize CAD and operate two-way radio systems using correct codes and signals.
- Animal Control Expertise: Respond to animal complaints, remove wild animals from residences, and enforce City of Plano ordinances and regulations. Operate patrol vehicles within City limits to impound animals, utilizing proper equipment and techniques for safe capture and containment.
- Compassionate Care: Develop the skills to euthanize animals with care and compassion, especially those that are trapped, high-risk, rabid, critically injured, or sick. Learn to remove deceased animals from various locations and maintain meticulous records of all procedures.
- Community Engagement: Educate citizens on compliance with animal laws, responsible pet ownership, and quarantine requirements. Represent the Local Rabies Control Authority, issue citations or warnings, and handle citizen complaints, ensuring the City’s regulations are up held.
- Administrative Proficiency: Maintain daily paperwork, utilize shelter software for various transactions, and respond to high-volume phone calls and walk-in customers. Develop the ability to enter and track data efficiently, file citations and warrants, and prepare necessary reports.
- Event Participation: Assist with off-site events such adoption fairs, providing valuable adoption counseling to prospective pet owners.
- Animal Health and Welfare: Learn and apply proper disinfection techniques, ensure proper identification of adoptable animals, and provide necessary medical care, including implanting microchips, performing heartworm tests, and administering vaccinations.