Job Post

Field Services Cruelty Investigator – Animal Protection

Company Name: Dumb Friends League
Company Website: https://www.ddfl.org/
Location: Denver, CO
Job Type: Full Time
Job Category: Field

Purpose of Position: Commissioned by the State of Colorado Bureau of Animal Protection, this position serves as the law enforcement representative for the Colorado Humane Society (CHS) in the prevention of cruelty and neglect to companion animals and equines. Liaison to appropriate state and local agencies. Conducts investigations and assists in providing animal welfare education/awareness to the general public. Provides quality animal and people care in accordance with the CHS’s mission, goal and management philosophy.

Responsibilities

  • Responds to calls within 24 hours and prioritizes cases by level of urgency.
  • Conducts “on-site” investigations to determine the validity of the complaint and appropriate disposition.
  • Utilizes appropriate tactics to resolve cases including potentially violent situations and always maintains a professional demeanor.
  • Educate the public on the responsibility, care and humane treatment of animals, in accordance with state and federal laws. Enforce compliance with state animal cruelty laws for companion animals and equines.
  • Follows up on notices to ensure compliance or issues summons for cases in violation of the law.
  • Collect and maintain evidence and court documents for cases requiring prosecution and testify in court on behalf of the League.
  • Produces and maintains clear, complete and accurate written investigation reports in accordance with departmental procedures.
  • Maintain organized case files and ensure all appropriate documentation pertaining to the case is entered into the file in a timely manner.
  • Interfaces with Bureau of Animal Protection, Animal Control, law enforcement and prosecuting agencies including monthly partner visits.
  • Assesses proper handling of neglect and cruelty cases based on knowledge of animal breeds.
  • Identifies animal diseases and utilizes proper disease control measures in resolving cases.
  • Determines and applies appropriate procedures for handling injured animals as needed.
  • Assures safe and proper handling techniques of animals are always maintained.
  • Observes and responds to the behavior of animals in order to take proper actions depending on type of breed, size, etc.
  • Serves as a representative for the CHS at various programs and special events.
  • Prepare and develop various trainings for animal control, law enforcement agencies and shelter staff significant to the ever-evolving field of animal welfare.
  • Responsible for obtaining required continuing education training to maintain Bureau of Animal Protection Commission.
  • Maintain an organized inventory of field equipment and upkeep on League issued vehicle.

People Care

People are the key to fulfilling our mission. Making internal and external patrons and their needs a primary focus is expected in all situations. This position interacts with and collaborates with employees at all levels of the organization. Communication occurs through face to face, telephone, and electronic interactions and may also include contact with the general public and League business partners. Communication and contact must be clear, understandable, cooperative, professional and respectful in all circumstances. Employees are expected to actively support a positive team environment, directly address conflict, and appropriately express concerns.

Competencies

Competencies are work behaviors and expectations necessary for successful job performance. They encompass knowledge, skills, abilities, attitudes, and actions. Additional definitions for competencies may be obtained from Human Resources

Organizational Key Competencies

  • Integrity and Ethics
  • Adapting to Change and Ambiguity
  • Customer and Community Focus
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Excellence

Position Key Competencies

  • Accountability
  • Flexibility
  • Leadership
  • Teamwork
  • Attention to Detail
  • Initiative
  • Managing Resources
  • Technical Expertise
  • Decision Making
  • Integrity
  • Time Management

Travel

This position requires driving a company vehicle
This position requires up to 80% travel in state

Schedule

Expected to work extended hours as needed. May be required to maintain availability when away from the shelter as directed by department director or President.

Work Conditions and Physical Requirements

Performs duties in all weather and potentially hazardous conditions subject to animal bites and scratches. Exposure to animals requiring medical treatment for diseases, injuries, etc. Requires high degree of safety and caution when dealing with potentially violent situations. Occasionally lifting animals up to 75 lbs. with reasonable accommodations. Drives League vehicle to travel to various locations throughout jurisdiction daily. Also performs work in an office setting. Frequent walking, standing, bending and stooping.

Shift: Four, 10-hour shifts

Full Time Benefits – Please visit our website for a comprehensive list of all offered benefits.

  • Benefits (medical, dental, and vision)
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • League-paid Life and Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Holiday Pay
  • 401(k)
  • League vehicle provided

Compensation: $26.00 – $26.50 per hour (starting pay commensurate with market, experience, and equity)

Requirements
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

  • Working knowledge of city, county, state and federal laws relating to animal welfare.
  • Knowledge of animal health, nutrition, and husbandry practices.
  • Ability to operate audio and visual equipment effectively and efficiently.

Required

  • Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Work Experience: Three years’ experience in investigations or related field.
  • Special Training, Certification or Licensure: Ability to obtain State of Colorado certification as Cruelty Investigator and commission from the Department of Agriculture within 120 days of employment. Valid driver’s license with insurable driving record

Desired

  • Excellent working knowledge of the criminal justice system.
  • Experience working with equines
  • Experience in working with state and/or federal disasters
  • Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Organizational and planning skills
  • Ability to utilize effective problem solving/decision making skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality
  • Bilingual fluency speaking English and Spanish preferred