What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Services Investigator position at Alachua County Sheriff's Office (FL)?
Specialized work involving the investigation of animal-related crimes. Responds to calls for service where animal-related criminal activity is suspected and is responsible for the detection, investigation, and prosecution of offenders.
An employee assigned to this classification investigates allegations of animal cruelty and/or neglect charges and performs related duties to promote compliance with Alachua County ordinances and Florida State Statutes regulating animal treatment. In cases involving severe criminal investigations, an employee will work alongside and assist Law Enforcement as required.
Employees assigned to this classification report to the Animal Services Unit Sergeant and are responsible to the Patrol Operations Division Administrative Lieutenant, Patrol Operations Division Commander, Major of Operations, the Undersheriff, and the Sheriff. Work is reviewed through conferences, reports, observation of the results obtained, and appropriate employee performance appraisals.
Preferred Major(s): Veterinary, Medical Forensics preferred
EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
An employee assigned to this classification investigates allegations of animal cruelty and/or neglect charges and performs related duties to promote compliance with Alachua County ordinances and Florida State Statutes regulating animal treatment. In cases involving severe criminal investigations, an employee will work alongside and assist Law Enforcement as required.
Employees assigned to this classification report to the Animal Services Unit Sergeant and are responsible to the Patrol Operations Division Administrative Lieutenant, Patrol Operations Division Commander, Major of Operations, the Undersheriff, and the Sheriff. Work is reviewed through conferences, reports, observation of the results obtained, and appropriate employee performance appraisals.
- Build organizational culture by aligning decisions with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office core values
- Investigate pet shops, pet fairs, boarding kennels, and other animal establishments
- Conduct investigations and file reports in accordance with agency policies and procedures when investigating complaints of animal cruelty, abandonment, and/or neglect
- Prepare search warrants for suspected animal-related crimes, and assist law enforcement with their execution
- Prepare written investigative reports, issue warning notices or citations, and take sworn statements that may result in court action
- Testify in civil or criminal court as required
- Drive a vehicle to transport animals to a shelter for treatment and care when associated with a crime; may also be required to transport animals to a shelter at the discretion of a supervisor
- Responsible for humane euthanasia of designated animals in accordance with Alachua County Sheriff’s Office policies and procedures, applicable laws and regulations, and best practices
- Respond to serious animal control problems in the field; operate tranquilizing equipment to subdue dangerous animals when necessary
- Build strong working relationships with Alachua County Sheriff’s Office employees, county departments, animal welfare partners, and other local and state partners
- Perform assigned duties with professionalism and a sense of urgency
| High School Diploma or GED | Required |
| Associate's Degree or better | Preferred |
EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
- Two (2) or more years of experience as an animal control officer or law enforcement officer; applicants within six (6) months of meeting this requirement may be considered for trainee status
- An Associate’s degree may substitute for one (1) year of experience
- A Bachelor’s degree or higher in Veterinary/Medical Forensics may substitute for both years of required experience
- Any combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities
- CERTIFICATION AND LICENSING:
- Current, valid Florida driver license; applicants with three (3) or more moving traffic infractions and/or at-fault motor vehicle accidents in the last 24 months will not be considered for this position
- Euthanasia Technician Certification, or pass their assigned Euthanasia Technician Certification Course within six (6) months of hire
- Sit/stand for extended periods of time
- See/hear at a normal range
- Speak, read, write, and understand English fluently
- Ambulate independently
- Lift/carry up to 100 pounds
- Push/pull moderate to heavy loads
- Bend and squat
- Manual dexterity
- Drive a vehicle
- Considerable knowledge of County ordinances and Florida State Statutes regulating animal control and related legal procedures
- Considerable knowledge of the Gainesville/Alachua County geographical area
- Ability to comprehend and enforce County ordinances as they relate to animal services
- Ability to deal effectively with the public, especially during emotional or stressful situations
- Ability to effectively investigate complaints and prepare appropriate documentation
- Ability to handle animals safely, effectively, and with compassion in all situations
- Ability to comprehend and utilize legal and court procedures as they apply to Alachua County Animal Services Ordinances and Florida State Statute
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
- Ability to understand and carry out complex oral and written instructions
- Ability to deal effectively with outside agencies, other Alachua County Sheriff’s Office employees and the general public
Salary : $51,000 - $81,531