Animal Protection Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description

Who You Are

A firm believer in humane care and kind treatment of animals. Knowledgeable of, or a willingness to learn animal welfare issues, state and local ordinances, quarantines, adoptions, other animal related issues. Not a stranger when it comes to customer service and conflict resolution. Finally, a well-rounded animal lover.

Who We Are
Kitsap Humane Society (KHS) provides positive life-changing solutions to people and animals in need. We do so by accepting, sheltering, and rehabilitating companion animals in need; providing protection, prevention, adoption, and education services; implementing positive lifesaving and life-affirming programs; and collaborating and partnering with our region and supporters to build a model humane community. 

The Opportunity

KHS seeks a fulltime Animal Control Officer to join our dynamic Animal Control department. As an Animal Control Officer, you will serve in the public's view and, representing Kitsap Animal Control and KHS. Animal Control Officers are deputized and sworn in to serve/enforce and protect animals and people across the 6 jurisdictions that Kitsap Animal Control serves. Officers perform their duties professionally, use good communication skills, tact, and diplomacy, and show respect for citizens, the law, and animals in their care.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following:

• Investigate complaints of local municipal code or state law violations and follow-up as needed by documenting the complaint, issuing warnings, and/or making enforcements such as citations.
• Prepare and maintain detailed and accurate reports of requests for service, complaints, information gathered and case resolutions. Utilize CENCOM (911) and KHS database for tracking and organizing cases and requests for service.
• Mediate issues involving citizens, animals and or helping citizens resolve complaints and issues on their own whenever possible by utilizing good communication, conflict resolution skills and education. 
• Effectively communicate and use deescalating techniques when dealing with confrontational individuals.
• Respond to stray domestic animals and livestock that may be sick, injured, aggressive, loose, confined, or in traffic. Ensure that the animal is returned to its owner or transported to the shelter where they will receive medical attention as appropriate.
• Remove deceased animals in a professional and compassionate manner.
• Assist other agencies such as CPS, Coroner, Code Enforcement, and other law enforcement agencies where an animal issue may be present.
• Educate and answer inquiries from the public regarding animal welfare issues and animal related concerns in a matter reflective of Kitsap Animal Control and Kitsap Humane Society. 
• Provide compassion and support services such as pet food, flea meds, and other options as needed and addressed by      director of Animal Control. 
• Provide judgement free pet surrender intake options as a supportive approach. 

Requirements

The Ideal Team Member
Has one or more years of relevant experience in the animal welfare field and/or prior animal control experience 

Must reside within Kitsap County.

Can handle animals in a humane manner under a variety of conditions and are experienced in animal handling and behavior assessment techniques. 

Is interested in working directly with our diverse community, providing quality customer service by responding to complaints, inquiries, and problems using effective listening and clear communication. 

Is skilled in engaging and building relationships with colleagues, staff and community members.

Is customer-focused, culturally aware, and maintains composure under difficult and stressful situations. 

Possesses a valid driver's license and clean driving record.

Is a high school graduate (or equivalent) and at least 21 years of age.

Our successful candidate must be able to work mandatory overtime, after hours, weekends, and holidays including on-call availability which can occur frequently.

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.

Ability to lift/push/pull 50 or more pounds frequently. 

What makes this job so awesome? 

• Full-time, 40 hours/week on a regular rotational schedule, either 5x8 or a 4x10, may include weekends and mandatory on-call work. 
• Base Wage $20.00 (plus union negotiated additional compensation includes overtime, after hours calls, on-call, clothing stipend, etc.)
• Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits
• Vacation Leave, sick leave, and paid holidays (11 per year including a floating holiday).
• Grow your family with one free animal adoption per year.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer

At Kitsap Humane Society employees come from all walks of life. We strive to hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Kitsap Humane Society is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

We believe in the importance of recognizing the value each of us contribute to the success of our mission. Having a diverse workforce is this organizations greatest resource of strength and knowledge. It is through the combination of talents and abilities that we can pursue finding effective measures on how we can provide the best customer service. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for everyone.