The Animal Control Officer is responsible for investigating complaints and carrying out the enforcement of the various animal control related by-laws within Sturgeon County and contract services to other jurisdictions. The role will also carry out related court duties and provide information to the public about all animal control by-laws.

This position is a safety sensitive position as it works with potentially dangerous animals and involves driving for long periods even during very poor weather conditions.

This competition will remain open until a suitable candidate is hired.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Enforcement of Animal Control Bylaws (80%)

• Performs duties in accordance with Sturgeon County Animal Control Handbook.
• Provides effective patrols, of relative by-laws. 
• Conducts investigation including collection of evidence of all related complaints received from the public within the County and contracted services. 
• Deals directly with complainant and violator, resolves issues through court action, warnings, and mediation.
• Enters all investigations into County software system.
• Liaises with legal counsel and court officials. Prepares court briefs and serve documents as required. Testifies for Crown in bylaw matters.
• Conducts preventative patrols for Bylaw infractions in all areas of authority.
• Maintains bylaw vehicle and equipment in accordance with our Fleet Maintenance Service program.

Public Education, Information and Public Relations (10%)

• Acts as an information source to the public on authorized Bylaws.
• Attends community meetings, public functions and/or make presentations as requested, representing Protective Services in a professional manner.
• Maintains a positive image through all contacts with the public. 

Other Related Duties (10%)

• Attends training courses as required/as directed by department supervisor or manager.
• Performs other related duties as required/ as directed by department supervisor or manager.
• Adheres to applicable responsibilities and accountabilities as outlined in the Sturgeon County Health and Safety Management System.
• Adheres to all of Sturgeon County’s policies, bylaws, procedures and processes, as well as aligns work to the Sturgeon County values. 

KNOWLEDGE, EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND EXPERIENCE 

• A minimum of one year of related experience working as an Animal Control Officer or Bylaw/Enforcement Officer. Preferences given to those individuals with more experience.  
• Diploma in a related field such as police studies or criminology.
• Must have a valid class 5 driver’s license and a current acceptable driver’s abstract.
• A clear Criminal Record (Vulnerable Sector) is required (check must be renewed every three years).
• First Aid, CPR and AED certifications. 
• Working knowledge of related municipal law and court procedures.
• Ability to prioritize and manage time effectively, working well and effectively under pressure with competing priorities.
• Strong organizational skills.    
• Ability to communicate effectively using courtesy, tact, and discretion, and the ability to clarify technical information to non-technical individuals, utilizing strong verbal and written interpersonal communication skills.   
• Ability to maintain good public relations within a set of protocols.
• Ability to deal effectively with complaint investigation and resolution with good listening, problem solving and conflict management skills.
• Sound and logical judgement and confidentiality when involved in animal control situations. 
• Ability to work in a team environment or independently, with the ability to be self-motivated and demonstrating commitment to the team’s goals and to continual learning.    
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.   
• Attention to detail.   
• Proficiency in MS Office suite of products.