Assistant Dog Warden/Enforcement Officer

JOB PURPOSE The post holder will assist the dog warden and as part of a team be responsible for a range of duties in the delivery of an effective dog warden service which requires a high level of customer service, the ability to deal with and resolve issues in accordance with procedure and to ensure compliance with relevant statutory and legislative requirements.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Ensure all aspects of dog welfare are met in relation to dog control and kennelling, including care of impounded dogs and cleansing of kennels within Council owned facility where required.

2. Assist the dog warden team service in the operational enforcement of legislation, Orders and Byelaws relevant to dog control; including all matters relating to dog licensing (including microchipping), collection and impounding of stray dogs.

3. Carry out enforcement actions in accordance with dog control enforcement guidelines and policy, including serving fixed penalties in relation to offences relevant to the post.

4. Deal with requests in relation to unwanted dogs. Work with other partners in the rehoming or sale of dogs in accordance with departmental guidelines and liaise with the appointed Council vet.

5. Use and maintain all relevant management information systems, undertake associated administrative tasks and maintain such records as are required by the Council in relation to dogs and all operational aspects of the dog warden service.

6. Adhere to Council policies and processes when processing payments, handling cash, cheques and any other payment method.

7. Assist as requested with response to dog fouling offences through the investigation of complaints, patrols, use and deployment of awareness/education initiatives, assessment of street cleansing and bin provision. Follow up and liaise with other officers as required.

8. Use and be responsible for maintaining in a clean and working condition all allocated resources including Council vehicle, safety and investigative equipment; maintain records as required and report any incidents/accidents or defects to the Line Manager.

9. Deputise for Dog Warden when necessary.

10. Undertake any other relevant duties that may be required and are commensurate with the nature and grade of the post.

Qualifications and training

• A minimum of five GCSEs (Grades A – C) or equivalent/comparable including English Language and Mathematics.

Experience

• Two years’ experience in handling and care of a variety of animals, including dogs;

• Experience in keeping of records and information;

• Experience of dealing with the public.

Key skills, knowledge and attributes

• Excellent oral and written and communication skills;

• Ability to deal effectively with the public, handling matters and difficult situations in a diplomatic and sensitive manner;

• Good decision-making skills and ability to work on own initiative;

• Ability to work as part of a team;

• Competent in the use of Microsoft Office packages;

• Customer/community focus in problem solving;

• High level of commitment towards the post.