Opportunity at a Glance

Join the Village of Orland Park’s award-winning Police Department to perform a variety of duties concerned with the capture, control and care of stray, unlicensed, uncontrolled, injured, and diseased animals within the village as an Animal Control Officer. 

The Police department is one of the most visible Village departments and works to keep the Orland Park community safe and oversees the enforcement of laws and ordinances. 

Key Responsibilities

This role will evaluate complaints and requests to determine if a health or property threat exists; capture stray, unlicensed, injured or uncontrolled animals; transport and/or release animals as needed; aid animals in distress; remove animals from inhumane conditions and transport to area shelters; inspect establishments housing or exhibiting animals to ascertain compliance in humane laws; inform persons perpetrating inhumane acts of laws and penalties for violations, issue citations; and establish/maintain effective working relationships with the general public, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and all Humane Societies. 

Other important responsibilities include answering correspondence, phone requests or complaints; recommending and/or ordering all necessary equipment and supplies; designing and presenting public education programs; maintaining vehicle and equipment to ensure sanitary conditions; and providing assistance in office functions as needed.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills

High School Diploma or GED is required. Three (3) to five (5) years of experience as an animal control officer, wildlife trapper, veterinary assistant, or related profession is preferred. Valid Animal Control Officer Professional Certification and eligibility to serve as designated nuisance wildlife permitee preferred.

Some knowledge of all local and state laws, regulations, and ordinances, including the Illinois Animal Control Act, Illinois Humane Care for Animals Act, Illinois Animal Welfare Act, Illinois Wildlife Code, Animal Rabies Control Laws, and the Illinois Dead Animal Disposal Act is required.

The ability to calculate figures and amounts, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and governmental regulations is also required.

Must be able to write reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals. Must also possess the ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general population, define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.

Regular hours are Monday - Friday from 7:30 am - 4:00 pm. Must be available for 24-hour calls, including evenings, weekends and holidays if needed.

Compensation & Benefits

Pay range: $32.62 - $45.67 per hour ($67,859.00 - $95,004.00 annually) depending on qualifications and work experience.

The Village of Orland Park offers a comprehensive employee benefits program which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and an employee wellness program. Retirement benefits through the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) are provided along with the option to participate in a 457(b) plan through Nationwide. The Village of Orland Park also provides for paid vacation, personal, sick days, and holidays.

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply in a timely manner.