Animal Services Director

Summary

Responsible for planning, administering, and directing the activities, operations, and personnel of the Animal Services Department to promote progressive animal welfare practices while ensuring the effective enforcement of animal-related laws, ordinances, and policies. This includes implementing lifesaving programs, community engagement initiatives, and innovative strategies to enhance public safety and animal well-being. 

Number of Direct Reports (include titles):  Animal Services Manager (1), Field Supervisor (1), Rescue Coordinator (1), Veterinarian (1), Management Services Coordinator (1) and Community Outreach Coordinator (1)

The salary range is $165k-$180k +/- and will be commensurate with the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.  Reasonable relocation assistance is also available.

To review the recruitment brochure, click here.

The position is open until filled with priority review of candidates by March 25, 2025.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide oversight of all animal services programs and operations (Shelter, Medical, Rescue, Outreach, Volunteer/foster programs, and Field Operations that includes an animal cruelty division and community engagement task force)

• Oversee the operating budget, cash handling reporting and department expenditures to ensure accountability and protect of funds.

• Responsible for fostering positive relationships with citizens, visitors, animal groups, and the community regarding animal service issues and service delivery.

• Responsible for maintaining relationships with nonprofit organizations that support Garland Animal Services with funding, volunteers, fosters, and additional resources to sustain high live release rates.

• Oversee a robust Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program to reduce the overpopulation of cats within the city, including partnerships with outside nonprofit organizations to assist with sterilizations and volunteer support.

• Provide leadership and set policies, procedures and service goals and expectations for departmental staff.

• Communicate with citizens, animal groups and visitors one-on-one to resolve complaints.

• Communicate with City Administration and elected officials to resolve high-level citizen complaints.

• Train staff in animal care procedures, maintenance duties, and safety precautions.

• Hire, motivate, evaluate staff, and establish employee goals based on the department and city’s strategic planning efforts.

• Review and revise departmental procedures and programs to meet citizen needs and expectations. 

• Direct planning and coordinate operations for facility operations.

• Remain abreast of current methods, best practices, and technologies related to animal services.

• Serve as the point of contact for media and public regarding animal services related matters.

• Develop and/or maintain effective working relationships between Animal Services and local departments, agencies, and organizations including law enforcement.

• Prepare and present reports to the City Manager, City Council and related Boards; provide professional advice and recommendations related to levels of service and other related matters; and direct preparation of relevant reports and research.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science, Biology, Environmental Science, related field of study OR 10 years of increasingly responsible experience in enforcement of animal services related laws and ordinances OR five years’ experience supervising individuals responsible for enforcement of animal services related laws and ordinances

• 5 years experience, including enforcement of animal related laws or ordinances

• 5 years progressively increasing experience in a management role

Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

Preferred Qualifications

Education/ Experience:

• Master’s degree in Animal Science, Biology, Environmental Science, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field of study

• 5-7 years of experience in Animal Services with at least 3 years of management experience

• Department of State Health Services Basic Euthanasia Certification

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Extensive knowledge of the principles and practices as it relates to animal welfare

• Extensive knowledge of federal, state and local regulatory requirements applicable to animal shelter and veterinary clinic operations

• Skill in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word)

• Ability to read and interpret codes, ordinances, policies, procedures, rules and regulations

• Ability to prioritize and manage work load

• Ability to communicate effective both verbally and in writing

Licenses and Certifications

• Valid Class C Texas driver's license

• Department of State Health Services Basic Euthanasia Certification or the ability to obtain within 6 months of hire

Physical Requirements / Work Environment

The work environment and physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The incumbent works in an indoor environment; occasional exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions and/or hazards. Occasional outside work.

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• City of Garland