Animal Control Officer

Animal Control Officer

Salary

$54,558.40 - $66,393.60 Annually

Location

Police Department, 112 1st St South, Great Falls, MT

Job Type

Regular Full Time

Job Number

26-00058

Department

Police

Opening Date

06/15/2026

Closing Date

6/28/2026 11:00 PM Mountain

Union Classification

MFPE Union

• Description
• Benefits

NATURE OF WORK

Performs work in the collection, impoundment and care of dogs, cats and other animals in the enforcement of ordinances relating to control of animals; work varies, individual judgment within prescribed standard procedures; subject to close supervision.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF WORK

Calls for Service - 60%

• Handles animals for the purpose of investigations of mistreatment, or control of abandoned, dangerous, or unattended animals. Investigates cruelty cases; testifies in court.
• Patrols city for stray, sick, injured, and aggressive domestic animals; impounds dogs, cats and other animals; captures bats for CCHD rabies protocols.
• Responds to complaints and inquiries via phone or in-person; issues citations based on state and local laws.

Reporting and Public Information - 25%

• Maintains detailed records of daily activities, licenses, and impoundments; writes reports and citations.
• Makes public appearances/presentations; news and social media interviews; explains city ordinances.

Primary and follow-up Investigations - 15%

• Investigates animal bites; quarantines animals as necessary; handles carcasses; monitors compliance.
• Transports injured animals and perform minor first aid.
• Assists police with animals on death scenes, DUI stops, and crime scenes.
• Restrains dogs and other animals for vaccination, treatment and euthanasia on occasion.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Possess high school diploma or equivalent
• Coursework in animal behavior or related field preferred.
• One year animal control, municipal or law enforcement experience preferred.
• One year experience handling animals in a professional environment (animal shelter, veterinary clinic, etc) preferred.

NECESSARY SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS

• National Animal Control Association (NACA) Certification (Must successfully complete within 1 year after hire.)
• Employee must possess a valid Montana driver's license.
• Ability to obtain rabies vaccination
• Pass an extensive background investigation, including criminal history
• Pass a psychological exam
• Qualified to be bondable

REQUIREMENTS OF WORK

• Working knowledge of the principles and proper practices of animal control and care.
• Maintains confidentiality in dealing with investigations and court proceedings.
• Exercises good judgment, problem solving skills, and works independently.
• Ability to drive assigned vehicles and schedule required maintenance service.
• Responds readily and professionally to complaints and deals with appropriately.
• Captures animals using snares or other appliances, in accordance with proper safety and handling procedures.
• Enter confined spaces and often unsanitary conditions.
• Ability to operate a computer, and ability to maintain legible, accurate records and develop reports.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with peers, supervisors and the general public.
• Ability to work a rotating schedule that includes Saturdays at times.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Highly Ethical
• High Level of Confidentiality
• Problem Solving
• Stress Management/Composure
• Communication Skills
• Customer Service

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position does not supervise staff.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is exposed to all weather conditions, confined spaces, dangerous animals, unsanitary conditions, crime scenes and upset or unhappy people.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, crouch, sit, bend, crawl, twist, kneel, reach, ride and perform similar body movements. Must have the ability to perform heavy physical work and to lift and carry up to 75 pounds at a time; the possession of hand/eye coordination sufficient to operate a computer, office equipment and a motor vehicle; the ability to talk and hear in person or by telephone; ability to listen to and operate a two-way radio: and the ability to see and read instructions and reports.

EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK

The work week is Sunday through Saturday. The work schedule is 40 hours per work week and typically performed Monday through Friday. This position is on a rotating schedule with three Animal Control Officers sharing a rotating schedule, where Saturdays are also covered. This position is non-exempt and eligible for overtime. Any overtime must be authorized prior to working.

TRAVEL

Travel is primarily local during the business day. Occasional travel may be required to attend off-site training and educational opportunities.

Full-time Employee Benefits

The City of Great Falls offers a complete benefits package to our full-time employee including medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement/pensions, paid holidays, vacation and sick leave. The City offers life and long term disability insurance to all full-time non-union employees. Union employees receive longevity pay. Optional plans are available for employees, flexible spending account, and 457 deferred compensation accounts.

To learn more details, visit our full-time benefits page.

Employer City of Great Falls

Address PO Box 5021

Great Falls, Montana, 59403

Phone 406-455-8497

406-455-8545

Website https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/greatfallsmt