ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER I 5414

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

An employee in this class is responsible for enforcing ordinances and regulations pertaining to dogs and other animals. Employees patrol assigned areas and answer complaints regarding dogs, cats, raccoons and other straying domestic and wild animals. Work involves some personal danger and employees must be able to act without direct supervision and to exercise discretion in meeting emergencies. Work is reviewed by an administrative superior through oral and written reports. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Enforces ordinances and regulations pertaining to dogs and other animals and issues summonses or warnings to owners for violations;

Participates in the recovery of straying wild animals which may constitute a public hazard;

May use a tranquilizer gun or other restraining devices in the capture of animals;

Investigates complaints regarding stray animals and animal bites;

Picks up animals and destroys them or endeavors to find homes for them when appropriate;

May operate a truck or patrol wagon.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Good knowledge of the local ordinances pertaining to the keeping of dogs and other animals; some knowledge of the care and feeding of common domesticated and wild animals; some knowledge of common animal diseases; ability to dispose of sick and unclaimed animals in a humane manner; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the general public; ability to act quickly and calmly in emergencies; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

OPEN COMPETITIVE

Graduation from a standard senior high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma, and one (1) year of paid or volunteer experience in the care and handling of animals in a business or institutional setting.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

At the time of appointment, candidates must be at least 18 years of age and must possess a valid New York State driver's license. The driver's license must be maintained throughout employment in this title.

R10/27/04

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive