Job Description
Summary The Animal Control Officer / Animal Inspector, under the supervision of the Health and Human Services Director, is responsible for the welfare of animals and the protection of people within the City of Melrose, Town of Stoneham, and Town of Wakefield. This regional role performs the full range of animal control, inspection, enforcement, public health, and emergency response duties as authorized under applicable state laws, city ordinances, and regulations, including M.G.L. Chapter 129. May be required to respond after hours in emergency situations. Essential Functions The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. Patrol public ways and City property; capture, restrain, and transport stray, lost, injured, diseased, dangerous, or vicious animals to authorized shelters or facilities to protect public safety and animal welfare. Enforce applicable State laws, City ordinances, regulations, and policies related to animal control, including vaccinations, quarantine, inspection, and enforcement actions under M.G.L. Chapter 129 and related laws. Respond to routine calls, complaints, and emergencies received through the Health and Human Services Department and Police Department, providing professional, courteous, culturally responsive, and discreet customer service. Investigate animal bites, injuries, and potential transmission of infectious or contagious diseases involving humans or other animals; determine when euthanasia is warranted in accordance with State and local laws and established protocols. Investigate complaints involving sick, injured, abused, neglected, or unsanitary conditions affecting domestic animals, including animals other than dogs, and coordinate appropriate corrective or enforcement actions. Coordinate with veterinarians, animal hospitals, and animal welfare organizations, including MSPCA, ASPCA, and Animal Rescue League, on sensitive, complex, or high-risk cases. Pursuing to state law collect and process fees related to boarding and adoption in accordance with the procedures for each municipality; maintain accurate records, daily logs, and required reports, including State-mandated reports (i.e. Barn Books); remit funds to the Treasurer’s Office as required. 8. Support emergency preparedness and response activities related to animals, including participation in public health emergencies and departmental emergency operations. Support community outreach, education programs, and special events. Contribute to a collaborative, inclusive, and culturally responsive work environment and perform other related duties as required. Dimensions: This position is both physically and mentally demanding and requires the ability to make quick decisions and exercise sound judgments in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Work is performed primarily in the field with intermittent exposure to adverse weather conditions and potentially hazardous situations. The Mayor and the Board of Selectmen appoint the Animal Control Officer / Animal Inspector, respectively. The Mayor and Board of Selectmen annually nominate one or more candidates for the position of Animal Inspector under the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 129 by March 1 and submit the nomination by April 1 to the Director of Animal Health for the state. For responding to emergencies off hours, the role will be compensated as half hour for phone calls made off hours, and two-hour minimum for in-person response to emergencies off hours. Supervision Supervision Scope: Performs responsible functions requiring a working knowledge of animal health behaviors; and exercises judgment and initiative, particularly in situations not clearly defined by precedent or established procedures. Supervision Received: Works under direct supervision of HHS Director following state mandated animal control and department’s rules, regulations and policies. Duties require the ability to plan and perform operations and independently complete assigned tasks, according to established guidelines, and within prescribed time schedules. Supervision is provided as needed. Supervision Given: None. Recommended Minimum Qualifications Education, Training and Experience High School degree plus advanced technical course in animal safety and care and a minimum of three (3) years of experience working with animals, including the proper capturing, handling, and care of stray, injured, or diseased animals is required or an equivalent combination of education, traini