ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER

ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER
WORCESTER POLICE DEPARTMENT
CITY OF WORCESTER

The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Animal Control Officer for the Worcester Police Department within the Animal Control Division. The Animal Control Officer facilitates programs for animal control and welfare in the City, and maintains Worcester as a safe environment for people, pets and other animals, through an educational and enforcement approach.

Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS:

• Enforce state laws and City Ordinances pertaining to animals; including issuing violation notices as needed
• Rescue and transport healthy, injured and/or sick domestic pets and wildlife
• Respond to citizen requests for services regarding animal bites, loose animals, barking or dangerous dogs, and injured animals
• Ensure proper care and attention is provided to all animals in custody of Animal Control
• Investigate disputes involving animals (domestic and wild)
• Maintain relationships with other public service organizations, municipal governments and the community in relation to the Animal Control Division’s responsibilities and objectives
• Prepare and write reports related to incidents and enforcement issues
• Perform related duties as required

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to handle exposure to all weather conditions at all times of year
• Ability to lift up to 150lbs
• Meet physical demands such as climbing, squatting, stretching, pushing, pulling, and lifting as required
• Ability to climb a ladder
• Ability to use animal control equipment in quick moving motions to keep animals controlled and placed in cages/kennels
• Ability to be available outside of normal working hours on a regular basis to address operational needs, off-hours incidents, and events
• Ability to communicate effectively, clearly, and calmly with residents, pet owners, and community members in a wide range of situations
• Skilled in the use of Microsoft Office Suite particularly Word and Excel
• Regular onsite attendance is required

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• One (1) year of related work experience in animal care and control
• Ability to complete ACOAM Academy for Animal Control Officers Association of Massachusetts, training required per MGL Chapter 140, Sec 151C, within 12 months of hire
• Ability to pass a comprehensive criminal history background check 
• Valid Massachusetts Driver's License
• Excellent communication skills

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associates Degree in Animal Science or Related Field
• Two (2) years of related work experience in animal care and control
• Completion of ACOAM Academy for Animal Control Officers Association of Massachusetts
• Completion of a Valid Massachusetts License to Carry (LTC), within 6 months of hire

SALARY RANGE: Non-Licensed   $27.27 - $32.91 hourly, full-time, excellent benefits package

                           Licensed $28.09 – 36.63 hourly, full-time, excellent benefits package

To apply, please visit: www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume and cover letter to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608. OPEN UNTIL FILLED, applications received prior to or on FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026, will receive preference. Preference is given to Worcester residents. The City of Worcester is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Direct inquiries to: City Hall, Human Resources, Room 109, 508-799-1030, Hiring@worcesterma.gov.