ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER
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ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER
Portland Police Department
The Portland Police Department is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Animal Control Officer to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for enforcing animal control ordinances, responding to citizen complaints, capturing and transporting animals, and promoting responsible pet ownership in the community. This is a vital public safety position that requires a strong sense of judgment, responsibility, and a passion for animal welfare.
The Animal Control Officer is responsible for enforcing city and state laws related to the care and control of domesticated and wild animals. This role involves patrolling neighborhoods, responding to citizen complaints, capturing stray or dangerous animals, and conducting animal cruelty investigations. The Animal Control Officer plays a key role in ensuring public safety and promoting animal welfare throughout the city of Portland. Candidates must be available for a fixed Tuesday through Saturday schedule.
Key Responsibilities
Patrol neighborhoods and city parks to enforce animal control ordinances and issue citations
Capture and transport stray, injured, and deceased animals, both wild and domestic
Respond to citizen complaints regarding animals and investigate animal cruelty cases
Testify in court regarding violations of animal ordinances
Responsible for due process procedures
Handle suspected rabies cases in accordance with state law
Maintain records and reports
Educate the public on animal control laws and responsible pet ownership
Maintain the animal control vehicle and related equipment
Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent; background in animal care and handling preferred
Knowledge (or ability to learn) animal-related ordinances and Maine state animal welfare laws
Strong understanding of safety procedures related to animal handling
Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision
Ability to tolerate high-stress situations
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Familiarity with the geography of the city is a plus
Special Requirements
Valid State of Maine driver's license with a clean driving record
Animal Control Certification by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources (or eligibility to obtain within probationary period)
Candidates must be available for a fixed Tuesday through Saturday schedule.
Applications accepted until July 10, 2026.
Offers of employment are contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory criminal background check.
Salary & Benefits:
This is a union position, CEBA (Grade 12), Starting salary range $24.12 - $27.17 per hour, plus any applicable shift differentials.
The City of Portland prides itself on its outstanding benefits and collegial and mission-driven work environment.
City benefits include:
Free employee health insurance with the completion of wellness incentives
Thirteen paid holidays
Sick, vacation, and personal leave
Life, dental, vision and income protection insurances
Choice of retirement plans, including a pension plan
Fitness Reimbursement
Use of City recreation facilities
Discount on professional development programs through USM and Thomas College
If you have any questions or need assistance with the application, please email Human Resources at jobs@portlandmaine.gov or call 207-874-8624.
The City of Portland believes that to do our best work, our employees need to reflect the diverse, vibrant community we serve. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to celebrating all dimensions of diversity in the workplace. Applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other applicable legally protected characteristics. If you need to request a reasonable accommodation, please call 207-874-8624 or email hrinfo@portlandmaine.gov.
Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL
Group : CEBA
Job Family : POLICE
Posting Start : 06/26/2026
Posting End : 07/10/2026
Details : Job Description
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