Animal Scientist jobs in District of Columbia

Respond to and investigate animal bites and conduct inspections of various animal use facilities and activities throughout the District of Columbia. Work closely with members of DC Department of Health (DOH) and Metropolitan Police Department to achieve goals set forth under this position.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Receive and respond to animal bites within District of Columbia. 
  • Conduct and complete necessary interviews, reports and recommendations for submission.
  • Maintain and update case files consistent.
• Conduct inspections of various licensed animal related facilities and activities such as: applications for Hobby Permits, Prohibited Animal Permits, Commercial Breeding facilities, Commercial Guard Dog Operations, traveling animal exhibits etc.
• Perform duties as assigned to Animal Control Officers, when available and necessary
• Draft, secure and execute administrative warrants for animal impoundment, when necessary.
• Testify in court proceedings and DOH Hearings related to duties performed.
• Provide prompt, courteous service to customers inquiring about HRA shelter policies and programs.
• Maintain and ensure compliance with DOH contractual requirements as related to ACI operations.
• Always represent HRA in a professional and courteous manner. Provide quality service to the public, volunteers, and employees recognizing their individual contributions to the success of the organization. 
• Perform other duties as assigned, including participation in shelter operations duties such as customer care and animal care duties as needed. 

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Knowledge/experience in state/local animal laws and enforcement techniques, including familiarity with DC Dangerous and Potentially Dangerous Dog laws, rabies and quarantine, and other applicable laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of photography and investigative techniques.
• Knowledge of animal health, breed behavior and identification.
• Knowledge of and ability to handle and care for domestic, exotic, and wild animals.
• Ability to maintain knowledge of dog bite factors and studies.
• Possess and maintain clear criminal background record.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license with good driving record.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a customer service orientation. Ability to communicate effectively, courteously, and professionally with a variety of individuals representing the public, board members, volunteers, donors, and employees.
• Ability to work effectively, both independently and in a team environment, in an atmosphere of multiple projects, shifting priorities, and deadline pressures. Ability to be flexible, detail-oriented, and able to prioritize. 
• Ability to work on-call nights and weekends.
• Computer literacy with proficient use of programs including Microsoft Office programs, email, Internet and database management software. Demonstrated advanced proficiency in Pet Point.
• Possess and maintain certification for Euthanasia by Injection (EBI) or obtain certification within six months of hire.
• Possess and maintain certification for Chemical Capture or obtain certification within one year of hire.
• Possess and maintain certification for Expandable Baton, or obtain certification within six months of hire
• Possess and maintain certification for Pepper Spray (OC) or obtain certification within six months of hire.
• Passion for the HRA mission, and for caring for all animals regardless of age, breed, temperament, or species, and supporting and educating members of the public, free of judgment or bias. 

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 

• Ability to lift 50 pounds unassisted regularly, 50 pounds assisted.
• Ability to be comfortable working with cats, dogs, small animals, reptiles, fish and wildlife.
• Ability to perform strenuous physical activity on a daily basis, including but not limited to: lifting and carrying, reaching, stooping, squatting, standing, and bending.
• Due to nature of shelter work, may be exposed to deceased, fractious, or aggressive animals; hostile or irate persons; zoonotic or other diseases; unpleasant noises, odors, or sights; and extreme temperatures.

Education and Experience: 

• Minimum three years of progressively responsible experience as an Animal Control Officer.

Multilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. A salary premium may be offered for multilingual candidates who demonstrate proficiency in written and oral testing.

HRA is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate because of race, color, creed, gender, religion, national origin, disability, age, pregnancy, genetic predisposition or carrier status, marital status, citizenship status, or sexual orientation. Accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals requiring them