Description
Job Title: Animal Control Officer
Department/Division: Police Department/Animal Control
Classification and FLSA Status: Regular, Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Pay scale: Field Ops I / 19
Salary Group: $21.20
Created/Revised: January 1, 2026
SUMMARY:
Under general supervision of the Commander, the Animal Control Officer is responsible for ensuring the safety of both citizens and animals through advanced knowledge and enforcement of city ordinances and policies related to animal control. This is primarily achieved through patrolling city streets, impounding stray and injured animals and the removal of dead animals when necessary. This position is required to be on call and respond to emergency situations outside of normal schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Must be able to lift animal crates that may have animals inside, must be able to drive a vehicle safely.
Rotating shift schedules that includes weekends, holidays and evenings.
Shifts are: 7am – 4pm, 10am-6pm and 11am-8pm. Must be available all shifts for rotation.
Supervision:
Reports to: Police Commander. Does not have direct supervision of staff.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Job description statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job title. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.
1. Responds to requests and/or complaints for animal services, regarding stray or lost animals, including domestic, wild and livestock within the city limits.
2. Patrols the city for and transports strays, abandoned, and unlicensed animals to the county shelter in a safe and human manner.
3. Investigates reports of animal bites and dangerous or vicious animals.
4. Maintains records and files on animal bites, investigations, animal noise nuisance, citizen complaints and other files as required.
5. Respond to observed or reported emergency situations and ordinance violations.
6. Assists in public education relating to responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, cruelty, and City ordinances.
7. Responds to calls and completes appropriate call notes and reports in a timely manner, including necessary documents as required by the shelter.
8. Provides a safe and sanitary environment for the temporary housing of animals by cleaning, sanitizing, and maintaining assigned vehicles, and kennels ensuring all are in good working condition and safe for habitation.
9. Coordinate with Command Staff and Patrol for the issuance of citations for animal violations.
10. May be required to testify in municipal court on animal ordinance violations.
11. Supports the relationship between the City of Elgin and the public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with visitors and City staff.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations regarding animal control and animal cruelty.
Knowledge of safety practices and techniques related to animal control.
Knowledge of the provisions in the Texas Motor Vehicle Code related to the operation of motorized equipment on public streets and highways.
Skill in the operation and use of standard office software to prepare correspondence and reports, including databases, presentations, and email programs.
Skill in the use of computers, two-way radios, and other related technology.
Ability to Skill in resolving problems or situations requiring the exercise of good judgment and common sense.
Ability to conduct inspections and document findings without bias.
Ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing with co-workers, the public, and elected and appointed officials.
Ability to maintain confidentiality of work-related issues and City information.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
In a typical work setting, an Animal Control Officer will:
Interpersonal Relationships
Have a high level of social contact working closely with the public, in person, by phone and in writing.
Hours/Travel
Works a standard 40-hour week and will be assigned an on-call schedule that requires the ability to immediately respond to calls for service outside of normal work schedule.
This position will be assigned a City vehicle for use in carrying out assigned job duties.
Physical Demands and Work Conditions
Work is divided between an office setting and outside events in all types of weather, and may be exposed to dirt, dust, noise, chaos, fumes, odors, heat, cold, rain, humidity, and sudden changes in temperature. Exposure to stressful and possibly dangerous situations. Must be able to lift and carry animals weighing up to 100 pounds, with or without assistance.
Disaster Service Workers Clause
Always in the event of a declared emergency or any undeclared emergency or natural disaster that threatens the life, health and/or safety of the public, designated employees may be assigned to assist rescue and relief workers. Such assignments may be in locations, during hours and performing work significantly different from the employees’ normal work assignments and may continue through the recovery phase of the emergency.
Requirements
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
HS Diploma/GED from an accredited education agency; and any related experience preferably working with animals.
License and Certifications:
Basic Animal Control Training Certificate within six (6) months of employment date.
Must have a valid driver's license and maintain an acceptable driving record.
