Position Overview:

Functions as an expert on animal control-related issues.  Must be at least 21 years of age, have a high school diploma or equivalent,  have a valid driver’s license, and submit to a background and motor vehicle check.  Must successfully complete National Animal Control Association training.  Must have a flexible schedule and be available to work an overnight, on-call shift in rotation with other Animal Control Officers (ACOs).  Must successfully complete 60-day recruit training.  Requires a strong commitment to the mission and purpose of Lexington-Fayette Animal Care and Control (LFACC) and the Lexington Humane Society (LHS).  This is a non-exempt position reporting to the Assistant Chief of Animal Care and Control.  

Key Accountabilities:

• Knows, understands, and enforces current laws and ordinances
• Completes all ACO activities consistent with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
• Prioritizes compassionate and humane treatment of animals
• Patrols the city and responds to calls from dispatch 
• Picks up strays and animals in danger
• Achieves and maintains citation authority
• Interfaces with the public to inform, educate, and resolve animal-related issues
• Impounds, vaccinates, and houses animals per protocol
• Notifies owners of impounded animals
• Interprets situations, partners with the Vet Tech department when necessary, and provides basic care for animals as needed
• Responds positively to structured hierarchy and constructive feedback
• Maintains exemplary driving record
• Operates dispatch as needed
• Assists Cruelty Investigator as necessary
• Interfaces with other agencies and departments
• Compiles evidence and appears in court as necessary   
• Processes incoming animals per protocol
• Completes paperwork as necessary   
• Completes and maintains computerized documentation of animals

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Current laws and ordinances 
• LFACC and relevant LHS SOP
• Word, Excel, and other applicable software 
• Animal breeds, basic behavior, temperament, and care
• Excellent internal and external customer service skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with an attention to detail
• Works in a team environment
• Self-motivates and works independently in a timely fashion
• Handles difficult situations
• Multitasks in a high- pressure environment
• Assimilates incoming information and immediately prioritizes
• Evaluates situations and determines correct level of response
• Makes decisions quickly and accurately
• Interfaces with other departments to ensure the humane care of animals
• Communicates respectfully with all levels of the organization
• Handles all types of animals, large and small
• Assesses animal sex, age, and breed type
• Lifts animals, sometimes weighing in excess of 60 lbs safely and humanely
• Handles vicious, sick, and dangerous animals
• Able to operate oversized vehicles lacking a rearview mirror
• Handles constant mental stress of life and death decision-making by other staff members
• Maintains flexibility and assists with what is needed for the betterment of the organization