Distinguishing Features Of The Class

This is routine work involving the responsibility for impounding and disposing of stray, unlicensed, nuisance, dangerous or unleashed dogs and other animals. The work is carried out in response to complaints from residents in the municipality, in accordance with the provisions of New York State Law and the local animal ordinance. In addition, the incumbent must work closely with the Dutchess County Health Department in regard to possible rabid animals. An individual in this title enforces state laws pursuant to Article 7 of the New York State Agriculture and Markets Law, including dangerous dog enforcement and prosecution. Court-ordered seizures are initiated and carried out by this office. Incumbent may be in physical danger from the animals to be impounded or in danger of verbal or physical abuse from owners. Work is carried out under the general direction of an administrative employee of higher rank in part through the submission of daily activity reports

Typical Work Activities

The following is indicative of the level and types of activities performed by incumbents in this title. It is not meant to be all-inclusive and does not preclude a supervisor from assigning activities not listed which could reasonably be expected to be performed by an employee in this title. 1\. Captures stray dogs and transports to S.P.C.A.;2\. Prepares initial investigative reports on all reported dog bites and assists the Dutchess County Health Department in follow-ups;3\. Responds to sick, injured and/or menacing wildlife calls;4\. Responds to complaints of nuisance or stray animals;5\. Picks up and disposes of dead animals;6\. Picks up injured domestic animals and transports to animal hospital;7\. Investigates reports of animal abuse and cruelty and takes appropriate action;8\. Keeps records for city, state, and SPCA requirements;

9\. Keeps records of all animals impounded, sold or destroyed;10\. May use tranquilizer gun, nets and other apparatus to subdue recalcitrant animals;11\. May write out tickets for violation of local animal ordinances;12\. Answers questions in regard to possible rabid animals;

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma AND six (6) months of full-time, paid or volunteer work experience caring for animals in a commercial, governmental or non- profit organization.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

Possession of a valid New York State driver license is required.

Note

Care of ones personal animals (dogs, cats, horses, etc.) is not qualifying experience.

If volunteer experience is used as qualifying experience it must be documented and verifiable, including specific time periods and hours worked.

CANDIDATES ARE SUBJECT TO A BACKGROUND CHECK.

THIS IS A PROVISIONAL APPOINTMENT PENDING THE RESULTS OF THE CIVIL SERVICE EXAMINATION THAT YOU WILL BE REQUIRED TO TAKE WHEN OFFERED AND SCORE IN THE TOP THREE.

An application for employment can be found on the City of Poughkeepsie Website under the Human Resources Department.

Deadline to apply: April 6, 2026

Submit resume/application to: City of PoughkeepsieHuman Resources Department62 Civic Center PlazaPoughkeepsie, NY 12601Or email to: [email protected]

The City of Poughkeepsie is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages women, minorities, and persons with disabilities to apply.

MUST RESIDE WITHIN A 20 MILE RADIUS OF THE CITY OF POUGHKEEPSIE

Animal Control Officer

How to apply

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