Animal Services Officer II

Salary: $32.63 – $39.66 Hourly

Location : Hillsboro, OR

Job Type: Full Time Regular

Job Number: 23/24-146-HHS-1

Department: Health and Human Services

Division: Animal Services

Opening Date: 09/09/2023

Closing Date: 10/1/2023 11:59 PM Pacific

FLSA: Non-Exempt

THE POSITION

Washington County Animal Services (Bonnie L. Hays Animal Shelter) is looking for an Animal Services Officer II! If you have considered continuing your career in the public sector by joining the Field Enforcement Team at a municipal animal shelter, join us in our mission to provide a safe haven for animals in transition, protect animals from harm, and provide tools to the residents of our community to live safely, responsibly and respectfully with animals. Your talent and passion for animal welfare will bring value to the services we provide in Washington County, Oregon.

* The closing date of this posting has been extended to 10/1/2023. *

We are also recruiting the Animal Services Officer I which is an entry-level position, job #23/24-145-HHS-1. If you are interested in being considered for both positions, you must submit separate applications to each posting. Link to the ASO I posting: Click HERE

Who we are:
Washington County Animal Services, located at the Bonnie L. Hays Small Animal Shelter, cares for lost animals, finds homes for abandoned pets, licenses dogs, enforces animal cruelty laws, and protects our citizens from dangerous animals.
Last year, we provided care for approximately 1,800 animals in our shelter, responded to more than 4,000 citizen calls, licensed more than 48,000 dogs, answered over 50,000 phone calls, and conducted community outreach efforts at schools, fairs, and events. We have an active volunteer program, with many dedicated citizens volunteering at least 8 hours a month each to our shelter. We work closely with other shelters in the area through the Animal Shelter Alliance of Portland, which includes a metropolitan area-wide program that aims to assist low-income families and their cats by offering affordable spay and neuter surgeries to those who qualify. We are also committed to Washington County’s Animal Protection Multi-Disciplinary Team, which helps provide solutions to the cycle of domestic violence and animal abuse.

To learn more about us, please use this link:Bonnie L Hays Animal Shelter

About the position:
We work collaboratively with our partners throughout the Portland metropolitan area towards our goal of preventing animals in our communities from needing our shelter services, as well as providing outstanding care and help to the animals currently in our care.
We also work closely with other enforcement agencies to apply state and local laws pertaining to the ownership, care, and treatment of animals in our community.
The Animal Service Officer’s (ASO) primary duties are to enforce Washington County’s animal-related codes throughout the county. The successful candidate can expect to primarily work autonomously in the field interacting with citizens regarding any animal-related issues and violations. An ASO is expected to accurately and clearly document their actions for each case. They will also be responsible for understanding Washington County’s animal-related codes and Communicable Disease rabies protocols and possess proper animal handling skills.

Due to the responsibilities and nature of the duties, the incumbent must be able to work onsite in-person.

The ASO II is the journey-level of the Animal Services Officer series, distinguished from the entry-level classification by the amount of professional training received and the ability to perform the full range of assigned duties with a greater level of independence and judgment.

Who we are looking for:
The ideal candidate will demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills which are essential to be able to evaluate a situation and come to a solution that is in line with the Bonnie Hays Shelter’s and Washington County’s core values. They are also independently driven and self-motivated as the position will primarily be working in the field alone, with no direct supervision and will need to manage their time appropriately. Additionally, they will have strong communication skills to fulfill the primary role as the face of Washington County Animal Services in the community. They will also have strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills to comfortably confront while not escalating what may already be a volatile situation.

Why Washington County?
Are you interested in challenging, meaningful, and rewarding work? Join Washington County in our commitment to advancing racial equity. Our Board of Commissioners worked closely with various community stakeholders and subject matter experts to develop an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Resolution. Adopted in February 2020, this resolution commits to the equitable delivery of Washington County’s services, resources, and opportunities for growth and development to every county resident.

Check Out Our Award-Winning Benefits & Wellness Program under “Benefits” tab above!

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
Classification descriptions are typically written broadly. To review this classification, please use this link: Animal Services Officer II
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

• Three (3) years of experience as an Animal Services Officer, Code Enforcement Officer or similar position that included enforcement of animal-related laws OR
• Two (2) years of experience as an Animal Services Officer, Code Enforcement Officer or similar position that included enforcement of animal-related laws AND two(2) years of experience as an Animal Services Technician or related experience in a kennel, veterinary office, animal clinic, or comparable setting that involved handling, controlling and caring for a variety of domestic animals, including dogs. OR
• Two (2) years of experience as an Animal Services Officer, Code Enforcement Officer or similar position that included enforcement of animal-related laws AND Completion of at least one (1) year of technical training in veterinary assistance or a related program, AND one (1) year of experience as an Animal Services Technician or related experience in a kennel, veterinary office, animal clinic, or comparable setting that involved handling, controlling and caring for a variety of domestic animals, including dogs

ADDITIONAL LICENSES, CERTIFICATES, PHYSICAL ABILITIES AND SPECIALTY REQUIREMENTS

• Possession of a driver’s license valid in the State of Oregon and an acceptable driving record per Washington County policy. To review the Driver’s License and Record Policy for Washington County, please use this link: Driver’s License & Records Policy.
• Possession of FEMA certificates for Independent Study Courses IS-100.B and IS-700.A.
• Possession of training certifications equal to two separate modules of the National Animal Care & Control Association or other substantially similar animal services officer training certification.
• Passing an extensive background check with Washington County Sheriff’s Office is required.
• Must be able to pass a post-offer physical abilities assessment prior to appointment.
  • For more information on the physical requirements, please visit the Job Task Analysis

Please be clear and specific in the applicable sections of the employment application about how your background is relevant. This information must also be consistent with your supplemental question responses. Please note: Answers to the supplemental questions are typically evaluated separately from your application.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

Washington County is committed to using a Merit-based System in which recruiting, selecting, and advancing employees is based on their relative knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Our commitment to you:
Washington County values a culture of equity, diverse perspectives, and life experiences. Our organization embraces innovation, collaboration and work-life harmony. We offer job stability, a comprehensive benefits package, and an opportunity to serve and support our diverse community. We are an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity and an inclusive workforce. Women, minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Steps of the process:

1. Apply today! In lieu of a resume, we ask that you complete and submit an online application, which will be used to screen for minimum qualifications (MQs) and to determine starting pay in accordance with the provision of the Oregon Equal Pay Law.
2. MQ Review: Human Resources will screen applications for MQs beginning the week after the posting closes.
3. Subject Matter Expert Review: Your responses to the supplemental questions will be evaluated and scored by a panel of subject matter experts. Your total score for this examination will affect your placement on the eligible list (a list of candidates eligible for interviews).
4. Panel Interview(s): Generally, top 6 – 10 candidates will be invited to participate in a panel interview.
5. Conditions of Offer: Successful candidate will be asked to submit information for an extensive background check with Washington County Sheriff’s Office and to schedule the Physical Capacities Test (PCT).

Please note: candidates that are successful in the evaluation process may have their applications referred for additional vacancies in the same classification, or job family.

Veterans’ PreferenceIf you are a Veteran and would like to be considered for a Veterans’ preference for this recruitment, please review instructions using this link: Veterans’ Preference PointsAccommodation under the Americans with Disabilities ActReasonable accommodation is available to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in the selection process for this recruitment. To obtain confidential assistance please contact Human Resources 503-846-8606, or e-mail:Careers@washingtoncountyor.govat least 48 hours before any step in the recruitment and selection process for which you feel you need accommodation.Status of Your ApplicationYou will be advised by e-mail of your status at each step in the application process, from initial application to final employment disposition. Please note that Washington County communicates with all candidates via email. If you “opt out” or “unsubscribe” of email notification from notices in NEOGOV it will impact our ability to communicate with you about job postings.

Questions (?) Regarding This Recruitment
Yeji Seo, Talent Acquisition Business Partner

Additional Resources:
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* Washington County is a drug-free workplace *

This is a non-represented position and is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

Regular and limited duration full-time employees working 30 hours or more per week and job share employees are eligible for benefits beginning on the first of the month following employment. Job share employees are responsible for 50% of the premium. Part-time regular, variable hour, and temporary positions are not eligible for medical, dental, and vision benefits.

Check Out Our Award-Winning Benefits & Wellness Program!
Washington County values your dedication to lead the future of our community through public service. Our total compensation package, which is comprised of more than just your annual salary, was built to show our commitment to the physical and financial health and wellbeing of you and your family. Your total compensation package includes a comprehensive benefits program with medical, dental, and vision coverage at up to 95% employer paid! Other benefits you’ll enjoy as part of your total compensation package include:

• Paid Time Off – 11 paid holidays including one floating holiday, 12 vacation days for new employees (accrual rates increase based on length of service), AND up to 96 hours of sick leave per year (unused sick leave accumulates from year to year without limit to provide pay and security if needed).
• Wellness Program – Washington County has been named one of Oregon’s Healthiest Employers by the Portland Business Journal for the past 7 years. We are proud to receive this award and will continue to make your health and wellbeing a priority by providing resources and support to help you and your family live and work well. Resources include smoking cessation, weight management, and stress management classes (online or telephonic with a personal health coach); discounts on gym memberships, fitness activities, and sports tickets; and Health & Wellness events and onsite flu shot clinics.
• Alternative Care Coverage
• Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Life and Disability Insurance (both County-provided and voluntary)
• Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)
• 457b Deferred Compensation Plan
• Emergency Travel Assistance
• TriMet Hop Card at no cost to the employee
• Bike lockers and repair stations
• A charitable giving program
• Oregon College Savings Plan

To learn more about our Benefits and Wellness program and view our current benefits guide, plan summaries, and premium rates, click here

Already have medical, dental, and vision coverage? No problem! Full-time employees who choose to waive medical, dental, and vision coverage will receive a $125 monthly contribution into a tax-free Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) VEBA account, which can be used to reimburse you for qualified out-of-pocket medical care costs, such as copays, deductibles, and prescription drugs. HRA accounts offer many benefits including significant tax savings, and no annual “use it or lose it” requirement. Proof of other creditable coverage is required.

01

Minimum qualifications for this position include:

• Three (3) years of experience as an Animal Services Officer, Code Enforcement Officer or similar position that included enforcement of animal-related laws. OR
• Two (2) years of experience as an Animal Services Officer, Code Enforcement Officer or similar position that included enforcement of animal-related laws AND two (2) years of experience as an Animal Services Technician or related experience in a kennel, veterinary office, animal clinic, or comparable setting that involved handling, controlling and caring for a variety of domestic animals including dogs. OR
• Two (2) years of experience as an Animal Services Officer, Code Enforcement Officer or similar position that included enforcement of animal-related laws, AND Completion of at least one (1) year of technical training in veterinary assistance or a related program AND one (1) year of experience as an Animal Services Technician or related experience in a kennel, veterinary office, animal clinic, or comparable setting that involved handling, controlling and caring for a variety of domestic animals including dogs.

Do you meet the minimum qualifications for this position?

Note: One (1) year of work experience is equivalent to 2080 hours (Ex: 40 hours/week x 52 weeks = 2080 hours).

• Yes
• No

02

You must hold the certifications listed below at the time of hire to be qualified for Animal Services Officer II position.
Please select which certificate(s) you currently hold.
Select all that apply.

• FEMA certificates for Independent Study Courses IS-100.B and IS-700.A.
• Training certification equal to two separate modules of the National Animal Care & Control Association
• Other substantially similar animal services officer training certification.
• None

03

Regarding above question, if you hold “other substantially similar animal services officer training certification,” please list your certification(s) here.
If this does not apply to you, enter N/A.

04

Education: Which of the following best describes your highest level of related education completed?

• Bachelor’s degree or higher
• Associate’s degree
• Some college-level courses
• High school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED
• None of the above

05

Education: In the space provided below, describe the focus of your college education and/or degree(s) related to this position.
If you do not have a college education and/or degree, enter N/A.

06

Select your years of experience as an Animal Services Officer, Code Enforcement Officer, or similar position that included enforcement of animal related laws.

• 7 or more years of experience
• 6 years but less than 7 years of experience
• 5 year but less than 6 years of experience
• 4 years but less than 5 years of experience
• 3 years but less than 4 years of experience
• Less than 3 years of experience
• No experience

07

Select your years of experience as an Animal Services Technician, or related experience in a kennel, veterinary office, animal clinic, or comparable setting that involves handling, controlling, and caring for a variety of domestic animals, including dogs.

• 5 or more years of experience
• 4 years but less than 5 years of experience
• 3 years but less than 4 years of experience
• 2 years but less than 3 years of experience
• 1 year but less than 2 years of experience
• Less than 1 year of experience
• No experience

08

Select your years of technical education/training in veterinary assistance or a related program.

• 2 or more years of education/training
• 1 year but less than 2 years of education/training
• Less than 1 year of education/training
• No technical education/training received

09

Driving Record Check

Driving a motorized vehicle is an essential function for this position. Successful applicants must possess a valid driver license and an acceptable driving record.

Washington County will conduct a driving record check on applicants prior to employment.

To assist in this process, please check ALL applicable statements for the last three (3) year period.

• I currently hold or have held a valid Oregon driver license.
• I currently hold or have held a valid out-of-state driver license.
• I currently have or have held a valid out-of-country driver license.
• I do not currently hold or have never held a valid driver license.

10

SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT REVIEW: The following supplemental questionnaire will be used to assist us in determining if you possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in this position. Your responses to the questions will be evaluated and scored by a panel of subject matter experts. Your total score for this examination will affect your placement on the eligible list (a list of candidates eligible for interviews). The higher the score, which includes any applicable veterans’ preference points, the higher the ranking on the eligible list. Generally, 6 – 8 candidates are referred for each vacancy starting with the top ranked candidates.
Instructions & Helpful Tips

• Answer each question carefully and accurately in the space provided. Your responses should reflect what is documented in the education and work experience sections of your employment application.
• Make sure your responses are clear, concise, and complete.
• If a question consists of multiple parts, answer each part separately.
• Provide examples! Examples should be relevant to this position and question, and can be from your formal education, work experience (paid, internship, volunteer), and/or training, unless otherwise indicated in the question.
• When describing a process or procedure, make sure to clearly describe your duties and responsibilities.
• Minimize the use of jargon, abbreviations, and acronyms.
• Each question is scored separately, so do not combine answers or refer to your answer from a different question.
• Before submitting your application, use a word processor, such as Microsoft Word or Google docs, to check for grammar and spelling.

By selecting yes below, you are indicating that you have read and understood the information provided, and agree to the above instructions.

If you have any questions, please contact the assigned Talent Acquisition Business Partner or email

• Yes

11

In a minimum of 250 words, please describe your training and experience working as an Animal Services Officer patrolling roads and investigating complaints, enforcing leash laws, issuing licenses, impounding stray dogs, and issuing citations.

If you do not hold this specific experience, please describe how your overall training and experience are relevant to this position.
In your response, highlight any experience such as Code Enforcement Officer or similar position that included enforcement of animal related laws, AND any experience such as Animal Services Technician or similar position in a kennel, veterinary office, animal clinic, or comparable setting that involved handling, controlling and caring for a variety of domestic animals including dogs.

Required Question