Animal Protection Dispatcher

Summary

Minimum starting salary is $21.00 hourly , depending on qualifications

Required

Minimum Qualifications:

• H.S. Diploma or GED equivalent
• 1 year customer service or animal services experience
• Valid Texas Driver's License
• Animal Welfare Dispatcher Certification from the National Animal Care and Control Association is required within 60 Days.
• Basic Animal Control Certification from the Texas Department of State Health Services is required within 180 Days.
• Must pass a Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) background check.
  
  

Preferred:

• 6 months of experience as a dispatcher, telephone operator, or clerk responsible for receiving, evaluating, and responding to inquiries or complaints.
  
  

Position Overview

Under general supervision, performs technical radiocommunications and dispatch work involving the coordination and deployment of Animal Protection Officers in response to citizen complaints, emergency situations, and service requests. Operates multi-line telephone systems, two-way radios, computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, and related software to receive, prioritize, and dispatch calls for service. Maintains accurate records and performs related shelter clerical and administrative duties. Work is primarily performed in an office or communications center environment. Exercises no supervision.

Essential Functions

• Receives and processes emergency and non-emergency calls related to stray animals, animal bites, aggressive animals, animal cruelty investigations, wildlife concerns, and ordinance violations.
• Determines call priority and dispatches Animal Protection Officers using the department’s shelter management and dispatch system (Chameleon), telephone, and electronic communication tools.
• Monitors officer assignments and status to ensure effective deployment of personnel and timely response to calls for service.
• Utilizes strong de-escalation and conflict resolution skills when communicating with distressed, frustrated, or emotionally escalated callers.
• Works successfully with a wide variety of individuals, including those experiencing crisis situations, behavioral health concerns, or heightened emotional states.
• Works closely and collaboratively with Police, Fire, EMS, Code Enforcement, and other City departments to coordinate response efforts and share critical information when incidents involve public safety concerns.
• Enters, updates, and retrieves accurate information in Chameleon and other department databases, including call notes, case details, citations, and impound documentation. May access and utilize Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems and other public safety communication tools as authorized or required in the future.
• Maintains accurate logs and documentation of calls, incidents, and officer activity within department software systems.
• Processes employee timecards and attendance documentation for payroll in accordance with City policies and deadlines.
• Coordinates, compiles, and prepares responses to public information and open records requests in compliance with applicable laws and departmental procedures.
• Uploads, codes, and reconciles purchase card (P-Card) transactions into City financial software; maintains receipts and supporting documentation in compliance with purchasing and retention requirements.
• Performs general clerical and administrative duties as assigned.
• May operate a City-issued vehicle equipped with animal handling tools, containment units, and safety equipment to attend training, participate in field training alongside animal protection officers, enforce animal welfare laws, and transport animals safely to shelters or veterinary facilities while ensuring proper care and maintenance of all specialized gear.