Snohomish County Planning and Development Services
Animal Control Officer
Snohomish County Planning and Development Services, Everett, Washington, us, 98213
Salary :
$65,669.04 - $79,749.96 Annually
Location :
Snohomish County, WA
Job Type:
Full-Time
Job Number:
2024-ACO
Department:
Auditor
Division:
AuditorAnimal Services
Opening Date:
09/09/2024
Closing Date:
Continuous
Description
Do you want to be part of a dynamic team that supports a safe and humane community by investigating animal related complaints, educating community members, inspecting animal businesses, commercial and private kennels, and enforcing state laws and county ordinances pertaining to animals? Snohomish County Animal Services may be the perfect place for you!
The ideal Animal Control Officer candidate must be service oriented and have strong skills and abilities in a wide variety of areas including communication, critical thinking and problem solving.
Law enforcement officers, park rangers, and/or corrections officers looking for a change of scenery in the public safety arena are encouraged to apply. Animal Control Officers are armed and receive a limited commission from the Snohomish County Sheriff. Animal Control Officers can promote to Senior Officers based on experience.
Officers will receive all the necessary training and equipment. Training includes a 16-week robust field training program, 80-hour animal control academy and the basic law enforcement reserve academy or equivalent.
Please Note:
Interviews for this position will be conducted on an ongoing basis. Review of applicants will take place weekly. It is in the candidate's best interest to apply as soon as possible. The hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at any time.
Job Offers are contingent on successful completion of reference and background checks. Snohomish County will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States.
BASIC FUNCTION
Investigate animal related complaints and enforce state laws and county ordinances pertaining to animals.
Job Duties
STATEMENT OF ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
Investigates animal complaints received from the public and/or other agencies regarding leash law violations, dog bites/attacks, nuisance animals, vicious animals, barking dogs, livestock at large and unlicensed dogs and/or cats.Captures and impounds stray, injured and abused animals.Conducts inspections of private and commercial kennels, grooming parlors and pet shops.Conducts animal welfare checks associated with active cases under direction of Senior Animal Control Officers.Seizes and secures animals for law enforcement officers as required.Educates animal owners about responsible pet ownership and county and state animal laws.Issues civil violation notices and/or citations and refers criminal investigations to the Prosecuting Attorney's Office for charging decisions.Assists Senior Animal Control Officers with the extraction of animals from environments in which they are abandoned or kept in cruel and inhumane conditions.Assists Senior Animal Control Officers with search and seizure warrants.Provides testimony in court and/or before the Hearing Examiner.Performs related job duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
One (1) year experience providing service to the public, experience working with animals and experience in using conflict resolution skills; OR, any equivalent combination of training and/or experience which provides the required knowledge and abilities. Must pass job-related tests.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Previous experience as an animal control officer or law enforcement officer.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Pre-employment examinations include a complete background investigation, fingerprinting, criminal record check, polygraph, a psychological evaluation, and physical capabilities test.
Proficiency access testing of the county's emergency dispatch system and be certified through the Criminal Justice Information Service within one month of hire date.
Graduation from the Basic Law Enforcement Reserve Academy (or equivalent) and the Washington Animal Control Academy contingent on funding and schedule.
Successful completion of Animal Control Officer's Field Training.
Field proficiency testing with animal control vehicles within six (6) months of employment.
Washington State Driver's License, unrestricted except as to vision.
Department issued uniform and related safety equipment must be worn while on duty.
Qualify with a firearm and carry firearm while on field duty.
Lift and carry up to 100 pounds.
Additional Information
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of:
customer service practices and techniquesbasic animal husbandry and livestock handlinginterview practices and techniquesconflict resolution/de-escalation techniquesreport writing basicscase management practicestime management basicsMicrosoft Office applicationsAbility to:
understand and enforce applicable state and local laws, county codes and regulations pertaining to animalsfollow written Standard Operating Proceduresapply knowledge of laws and ordinances to field situationsoperate a specialized vehicle on public roads including towing and backing of livestock trailershandle animals in a humane mannerrecognize signs of illness or injury in animalsrestrain, capture, and control large and small animalscommunicate effectively both verbally and in writing with diverse individualsparticipate in continuous improvement activities within the division/officegain cooperation of the public under stressful situations using tact and diplomacymaintain composure and exercise sound judgment under hostile, dangerous and/or stressful conditionsmaintain accurate, well written and organized case reportswork effectively independently, as a partner or in a team environment and be self-motivatedestablish and maintain effective working relationships with Auditor's Office and Sheriff's Office personnel, other agencies, and the general publicSUPERVISION
Employees in this classification receive direction from the Animal Services Manager and Lead Animal Control Officer.
WORKING CONDITIONS
The majority of the work is performed outdoors in all types of weather and environmental conditions. The work may involve interaction with intimidating or hostile individuals where personal safety may be at an elevated risk. Employees may be exposed to various communicable, bacterial and/or viral zoonotic diseases, odors, animal blood, feces, urine, fleas, ticks, and mites. Employees are required to wear and work in personal protective equipment when working in conditions where air contaminants and/or other physical hazards are present. Employees must qualify in the use of air-purifying respirators. Employees are required to work overtime, evenings, weekends and holidays as necessary and are required to participate in on call duty on a rotating schedule. Out of state travel may be required for training.
Snohomish County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer.Accommodations for individuals with disabilities are provided upon request.
Snohomish County offers a comprehensive benefits package to employees that receive a regular appointment who work at least 20 hours a week.Visit to learn more about the following benefits.
County Benefits
Medical InsuranceVision InsuranceDental InsuranceRetirementBasic Group Term Life Insurance/ Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) InsuranceLong Term Disability (LTD)Commuting BenefitsEmployee Assistance Program (EAP)Partners for Health Employee Wellness ProgramLeave & HolidaysVoluntary Benefits
Deferred Compensation 457(b)Supplemental Group Term Life InsuranceAdditional Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance (AD&D)Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)Supplemental Individual Insurance PoliciesHealthcare Premiums
Regular full-time employees: If you work 35 or more hours per week, you will pay these for medical insurance. The County pays the for vision, dental, and basic life insurance.Regular part-time employees: If you work between 20 and 34 hours per week, you will pay for medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. The County's contribution toward the premium for an employee in a regular part-time appointment will be pro-rated in an amount equal to the F.T.E. percentage the employee is assigned.Note: Temporary employees, seasonal employees and paid interns may be eligible for medical insurance benefits. Review the County's to learn more.
01
Following are a series of supplemental questions designed to assess your job related experience and qualifications. Please note that as part of the screening process your responses will be reviewed in conjunction with your general online application. The employment history and education detailed in your general application must validate/support your responses to the supplemental questions. If your responses cannot be validated, you will not proceed to the next steps of the review/selection process.A resume may be submitted, but it will not substitute for the general online application or supplemental questions; responses such as "see resume" or "see application" will not be considered.
Do you agree to answer each question truthfully and that your responses can be supported by your general application/work history and by your references?
YesNo
02
Snohomish County Animal Control Officers have a special deputy commission issued by the Snohomish County Sheriff and are armed. If selected, a background investigation will begin. This includes the following:*Criminal history investigation*Personnel and professional references*Employment history*Credit check*Drivers record investigation*Polygraph examination*Psychological evaluation*Medical examinationDo you understand these pre-employment screening requirements?
YesNo
03
You will be required to successfully complete a basic reserve law enforcement academy, if you have not already done so. During the academy, employees will need to work a flexible work schedule that includes commuting to attend weeknight and Saturday classes. Are you able to meet this requirement?
YesNo
04
Can you meet the physical requirements for this position including the lifting and carrying of 80 lbs. with or without accommodation? Pre-employment screening includes a physical capabilities test.
YesNo
05
Please describe your experience in handling and working with animals including where you obtained this experience. Please provide specific details.
06
Please describe your experience providing service to the public in the private or public sector. How does this experience prepare you for this position?
07
Animal Control Officers frequently use mediation skills in the course of their duties to resolve disputes and conflict between citizens. Describe your experience using mediation or conflict resolution skills in similar situations.
08
Frequently, Animal Control Officers are asked to assist other Animal Control Officers on their cases and/or search warrants. Describe your abilities working as part of a team and give examples.
09
Report writing is a core function of this job. Please describe your experience in writing accurate, detailed reports. What did you do to ensure accuracy?
10
This position requires the ability to investigate animal complaints received from the public and /or other agencies including; leash law violations, dog bites/attacks, nuisance animals, vicious animals, barking dogs, livestock at large, unlicensed dogs and/or cats. Describe your experience in conducting investigations. What are some of the factors you would consider when investigating animal complaints?
Required Question
$65,669.04 - $79,749.96 Annually
Location :
Snohomish County, WA
Job Type:
Full-Time
Job Number:
2024-ACO
Department:
Auditor
Division:
AuditorAnimal Services
Opening Date:
09/09/2024
Closing Date:
Continuous
Description
Do you want to be part of a dynamic team that supports a safe and humane community by investigating animal related complaints, educating community members, inspecting animal businesses, commercial and private kennels, and enforcing state laws and county ordinances pertaining to animals? Snohomish County Animal Services may be the perfect place for you!
The ideal Animal Control Officer candidate must be service oriented and have strong skills and abilities in a wide variety of areas including communication, critical thinking and problem solving.
Law enforcement officers, park rangers, and/or corrections officers looking for a change of scenery in the public safety arena are encouraged to apply. Animal Control Officers are armed and receive a limited commission from the Snohomish County Sheriff. Animal Control Officers can promote to Senior Officers based on experience.
Officers will receive all the necessary training and equipment. Training includes a 16-week robust field training program, 80-hour animal control academy and the basic law enforcement reserve academy or equivalent.
Please Note:
Interviews for this position will be conducted on an ongoing basis. Review of applicants will take place weekly. It is in the candidate's best interest to apply as soon as possible. The hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at any time.
Job Offers are contingent on successful completion of reference and background checks. Snohomish County will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States.
BASIC FUNCTION
Investigate animal related complaints and enforce state laws and county ordinances pertaining to animals.
Job Duties
STATEMENT OF ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
Investigates animal complaints received from the public and/or other agencies regarding leash law violations, dog bites/attacks, nuisance animals, vicious animals, barking dogs, livestock at large and unlicensed dogs and/or cats.Captures and impounds stray, injured and abused animals.Conducts inspections of private and commercial kennels, grooming parlors and pet shops.Conducts animal welfare checks associated with active cases under direction of Senior Animal Control Officers.Seizes and secures animals for law enforcement officers as required.Educates animal owners about responsible pet ownership and county and state animal laws.Issues civil violation notices and/or citations and refers criminal investigations to the Prosecuting Attorney's Office for charging decisions.Assists Senior Animal Control Officers with the extraction of animals from environments in which they are abandoned or kept in cruel and inhumane conditions.Assists Senior Animal Control Officers with search and seizure warrants.Provides testimony in court and/or before the Hearing Examiner.Performs related job duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
One (1) year experience providing service to the public, experience working with animals and experience in using conflict resolution skills; OR, any equivalent combination of training and/or experience which provides the required knowledge and abilities. Must pass job-related tests.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Previous experience as an animal control officer or law enforcement officer.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Pre-employment examinations include a complete background investigation, fingerprinting, criminal record check, polygraph, a psychological evaluation, and physical capabilities test.
Proficiency access testing of the county's emergency dispatch system and be certified through the Criminal Justice Information Service within one month of hire date.
Graduation from the Basic Law Enforcement Reserve Academy (or equivalent) and the Washington Animal Control Academy contingent on funding and schedule.
Successful completion of Animal Control Officer's Field Training.
Field proficiency testing with animal control vehicles within six (6) months of employment.
Washington State Driver's License, unrestricted except as to vision.
Department issued uniform and related safety equipment must be worn while on duty.
Qualify with a firearm and carry firearm while on field duty.
Lift and carry up to 100 pounds.
Additional Information
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of:
customer service practices and techniquesbasic animal husbandry and livestock handlinginterview practices and techniquesconflict resolution/de-escalation techniquesreport writing basicscase management practicestime management basicsMicrosoft Office applicationsAbility to:
understand and enforce applicable state and local laws, county codes and regulations pertaining to animalsfollow written Standard Operating Proceduresapply knowledge of laws and ordinances to field situationsoperate a specialized vehicle on public roads including towing and backing of livestock trailershandle animals in a humane mannerrecognize signs of illness or injury in animalsrestrain, capture, and control large and small animalscommunicate effectively both verbally and in writing with diverse individualsparticipate in continuous improvement activities within the division/officegain cooperation of the public under stressful situations using tact and diplomacymaintain composure and exercise sound judgment under hostile, dangerous and/or stressful conditionsmaintain accurate, well written and organized case reportswork effectively independently, as a partner or in a team environment and be self-motivatedestablish and maintain effective working relationships with Auditor's Office and Sheriff's Office personnel, other agencies, and the general publicSUPERVISION
Employees in this classification receive direction from the Animal Services Manager and Lead Animal Control Officer.
WORKING CONDITIONS
The majority of the work is performed outdoors in all types of weather and environmental conditions. The work may involve interaction with intimidating or hostile individuals where personal safety may be at an elevated risk. Employees may be exposed to various communicable, bacterial and/or viral zoonotic diseases, odors, animal blood, feces, urine, fleas, ticks, and mites. Employees are required to wear and work in personal protective equipment when working in conditions where air contaminants and/or other physical hazards are present. Employees must qualify in the use of air-purifying respirators. Employees are required to work overtime, evenings, weekends and holidays as necessary and are required to participate in on call duty on a rotating schedule. Out of state travel may be required for training.
Snohomish County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer.Accommodations for individuals with disabilities are provided upon request.
Snohomish County offers a comprehensive benefits package to employees that receive a regular appointment who work at least 20 hours a week.Visit to learn more about the following benefits.
County Benefits
Medical InsuranceVision InsuranceDental InsuranceRetirementBasic Group Term Life Insurance/ Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) InsuranceLong Term Disability (LTD)Commuting BenefitsEmployee Assistance Program (EAP)Partners for Health Employee Wellness ProgramLeave & HolidaysVoluntary Benefits
Deferred Compensation 457(b)Supplemental Group Term Life InsuranceAdditional Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance (AD&D)Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)Supplemental Individual Insurance PoliciesHealthcare Premiums
Regular full-time employees: If you work 35 or more hours per week, you will pay these for medical insurance. The County pays the for vision, dental, and basic life insurance.Regular part-time employees: If you work between 20 and 34 hours per week, you will pay for medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. The County's contribution toward the premium for an employee in a regular part-time appointment will be pro-rated in an amount equal to the F.T.E. percentage the employee is assigned.Note: Temporary employees, seasonal employees and paid interns may be eligible for medical insurance benefits. Review the County's to learn more.
01
Following are a series of supplemental questions designed to assess your job related experience and qualifications. Please note that as part of the screening process your responses will be reviewed in conjunction with your general online application. The employment history and education detailed in your general application must validate/support your responses to the supplemental questions. If your responses cannot be validated, you will not proceed to the next steps of the review/selection process.A resume may be submitted, but it will not substitute for the general online application or supplemental questions; responses such as "see resume" or "see application" will not be considered.
Do you agree to answer each question truthfully and that your responses can be supported by your general application/work history and by your references?
YesNo
02
Snohomish County Animal Control Officers have a special deputy commission issued by the Snohomish County Sheriff and are armed. If selected, a background investigation will begin. This includes the following:*Criminal history investigation*Personnel and professional references*Employment history*Credit check*Drivers record investigation*Polygraph examination*Psychological evaluation*Medical examinationDo you understand these pre-employment screening requirements?
YesNo
03
You will be required to successfully complete a basic reserve law enforcement academy, if you have not already done so. During the academy, employees will need to work a flexible work schedule that includes commuting to attend weeknight and Saturday classes. Are you able to meet this requirement?
YesNo
04
Can you meet the physical requirements for this position including the lifting and carrying of 80 lbs. with or without accommodation? Pre-employment screening includes a physical capabilities test.
YesNo
05
Please describe your experience in handling and working with animals including where you obtained this experience. Please provide specific details.
06
Please describe your experience providing service to the public in the private or public sector. How does this experience prepare you for this position?
07
Animal Control Officers frequently use mediation skills in the course of their duties to resolve disputes and conflict between citizens. Describe your experience using mediation or conflict resolution skills in similar situations.
08
Frequently, Animal Control Officers are asked to assist other Animal Control Officers on their cases and/or search warrants. Describe your abilities working as part of a team and give examples.
09
Report writing is a core function of this job. Please describe your experience in writing accurate, detailed reports. What did you do to ensure accuracy?
10
This position requires the ability to investigate animal complaints received from the public and /or other agencies including; leash law violations, dog bites/attacks, nuisance animals, vicious animals, barking dogs, livestock at large, unlicensed dogs and/or cats. Describe your experience in conducting investigations. What are some of the factors you would consider when investigating animal complaints?
Required Question