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.

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)Must be available to work one weekend day as part of the regular work schedule

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 : 07/11/2025
Posting End : 08/01/2025
Details : Job Description

• 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