MORGAN COUNTY

48 West Young St.

P.O. Box 886

Morgan Utah 84050

Class Specification

Class Title: Animal Control Officer

Division: Law Enforcement

Departments: Sheriff

General Purpose:

Performs a variety of surveillance and apprehension duties relate to the enforcement of local animal control laws and ordinances.

Supervision Received:

Works under the close supervision of a Sergeant, Deputy III or II, while in training.

Supervision Exercised:

None.

Example of Duties:

Operates specialized vehicles in patrolling county streets and roads while observing for loose stray animals: removes dogs and other animals to shelters for impoundment until ownership can be determined; responds to calls and complaints from public regarding animal problems; sells dog licenses.

Answers calls for the removal of dead animals and disposal of the same; destroys and removes serious injured animals; investigates complaints of animal cruelty; issues citation for all ordinance violations.

Follows specific procedures for dog bite cases and other animal bites; quarantines animals guilty of biting to observe for rabies and other diseases.

Prepares activity log to maintain updated information on animal control activity and to determine department efficiency in responding to public needs; initiates legal action against violators and testifies in court.

Participates in public education programs as needed to inform public of local ordinances and problems; attends meetings at local schools to educate children regarding animal care and safety precautions.

Performs related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualification:

• 
  Education and Experience:

• • 
    Graduate from high school or GED plus sufficient training to demonstrate aptitude and ability to perform the above and related duties.

And

• • Two (2) years of generally responsible work experience preferably in a field related to above duties.

Or

• • An equivalent combination of education and experience.
    

• Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Some knowledge of local geography; some knowledge of the operation of motorized vehicles; some knowledge of basic animal care; some knowledge of basic procedures an cautions used in dealing with disturbed animals; some knowledge of interpersonal communication skills; some knowledge of basic writing skill; ability to deal effectively with stress related to public safety employment and animal control; ability to maintain accurate records; ability to develop effective working relationships with officials, public and co-workers.

Ability to be firm and courteous with the public; ability to develop effective working relationship with supervisors, fellow employees and the public; ability to use discretion and good judgment; ability to follow written and verbal instruction; ability to operate a two-way radio, mobile device or other communication devices; ability to understand common radio code; ability to learn quickly the laws ordinance and regulations governing animal control; ability to work in an environment where exposure to all weather conditions would be expected in the performance of the job; ability to perform moderate amounts of physical labor; ability in the use of small firearms; ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.

• Special Qualifications:

• • 
    Must possess a valid Utah State Drivers license.
  • Preference may be given for Certification through the National Animal Control Association and Utah Human Society, in the use and application of various animal control equipment.
  • Must be willing to be on-call 24 hours
  • Must be at least 19 years of age.
    

Updated November 29, 2022