ABOUT COLUMBIA COUNTY

Columbia County is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets, with pockets of quiet and peaceful springs. Columbia County is the home of Florida’s Springlands, with multiple natural springs, lakes, rivers, and nine beautiful state parks. In 2022, the US Census Bureau QuickFacts estimated Columbia County has a population of 72,000 residents. Columbia County is a southeast sports destination and hosts multiple tournaments and camps. Columbia County requires a diverse and dedicated workforce to provide services for Columbia County residents to live and work and for the visitors who experience our piece of the Florida playground. Consider applying for a position with us today.

JOB DESCRIPTION

This is responsible technical work in the enforcement and control of animals (dogs and cats). An employee in this class works under general supervision and uses initiative to make decisions and solve problems within the framework of the County’s animal control ordinance and Florida Law, including Chapter 828.30, Florida Statutes. Investigate citizen complaints related to animals and referring citizens to the proper enforcement agency when necessary. Ensure the protection of the public by removal of dangerous animals. Prepare written and oral reports.

Training and Experience

Must have a High School Diploma, or equivalent, and at least one (1) year experience in animal control, code enforcement, law enforcement, Military, or closely related field; or, any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

Professional Licenses/mandatory requirements

Possession of a valid Florida Driver’s License required. Must have, or obtain within six (6) month of hire, a Florida Animal Control Association approved Animal Control Officer Certification as required by Chapter 828.27, Florida Statutes

SALARY: $ 19.93 per hour plus benefits

DEADLINE FOR RECEIVING APPLICATIONS: 01/28/2025

Each applicant is required to submit a complete County Application for Employment. Applications are available on-line www.columbiacountyfla.com/Jobs.asp . Successful applicant must be able to pass a pre-employment medical exam, physical agilities, criminal history background check, driver’s license check and drug screening. Applications can be emailed to: hr@columbiacountyfla.com or by mail, FedEx, or UPS to:

HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE

COLUMBIA COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

POST OFFICE BOX 1529

LAKE CITY, FLORIDA 32056-1529

(386) 758-3351; TDD (386) 758-2139

An AA/EEO/ADA/VP Employer

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to read, understand, and enforce County ordinances and applicable laws
• Ability to speak and hear clearly to obtain and provide information to the public both in person and by telephone

Knowledge of humane methods of capturing and handling animals

Knowledge of the rules and regulations regarding animal services

Strong organizational skills

Ability to project and maintain a positive image of Columbia County

Ability to prioritize and perform multiple tasks

Ability to manage time effectively and meet deadlines

Ability to maintain detailed files and records

Ability to work closely with others as a team

Knowledge of the geography of the County, all unincorporated areas and the general roadway system of the County

• Ability to operate a motor vehicle in a safe and efficient manner

Essential Functions

• Answers questions from the public concerning interpretation of the County’s Animal Control Ordinance and applicable Florida Law
• Responds to complaints involving animal (dogs and cats) violations and works with the violator to correct problem
• Attends Animal Control Magistrate meetings as required concerning violations
• Must be able to communicate effectively in oral and written form and understand complex oral and written instructions
• Prepares written and oral reports
• Attempts to locate animal owners and obtain information necessary to satisfy complaint and ensure regulations are enforced
• Delivers animals to designated facilities for care and boarding or disposition
• Advises citizens on responsibilities of animal ownership
• Issues warning notices and citations to owner(s) of animal(s) when animal control ordinance has been violated
• Obtains necessary information in case of animal bites, advises all parties on proper procedure
• Required to work during a local declared state of emergency

Non -Essential Functions

Performs related work as required.

[These essential job functions are not to be construed as a complete statement of all duties performed.  Employees will be required to perform other job related marginal duties as required.]

Work Environment

Majority of duties are performed outdoors, frequently in extreme weather conditions.  Duties shall be performed anywhere inside the County

Essential Physical Skills/Demands

Ability to use both hands while in various positions of walking, standing and stooping when performing essential job functions. Acceptable eyesight and hearing (with or without correction) to safely perform essential functions. Reaching, pulling and pushing, walking, standing, kneeling, bending and stooping. Required to sit for extended periods while performing essential office duties.  Manual dexterity is required to operate copy machine, calculator, maintain office files and records.

NOTE: The physical demands described above are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodations.