Director, Animal Services

Directs the staff unit that is responsible for the operation and administration of animal control and animal kennels to protect citizens from stray, lost, or diseased animals within the guidelines of state laws, local ordinances, and department and county policies and procedures. Reports to the Deputy Administrator arid works with Administration, Augusta, Georgia Commission, Advisory boards, Law Enforcement agencies, Court Officials, Public Health agencies and the public in accordance to the guidelines of ordinances, departmental and county policies and procedures.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

• Manages the day-to-day operations of the Animal Services department, which includes planning, developing, coordinating, implementing, and evaluating programs, processes policies and procedures, systems, standards, and/or service offerings; ensures compliance with Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, codes, and/or standards. Completion of all required reports; prepares and manages an operational budget and prepares specifications for capital purchases. Seeks grants and other funding opportunities. Supervises staff to include prioritizing and assigning work; conducting performance evaluations; ensuring staff is trained and that employees follow policies and procedures; making hiring, disciplinary and termination decisions; and maintain a healthy and safe working environment. Perform inspections of Animal Services building, equipment, vehicles, workstations for cleanliness, and ensure proper usage.
• Implements and maintains the Animal Services program in accordance with adopted Animal Control and county regulations. Coordinates activities of the Augusta, Georgia Animal Services department. Collaborates with local veterinarians and maintains records of animals receiving veterinary services.
• Prepares recommendations for discussion with Augusta, Georgia Commission. Represents Augusta, Georgia and Animal Services in the community; speaks to groups; drafts promotional materials, articles and literature regarding pet ownership to establish and promote educational programs, (e.g., how to provide for the general health and welfare of animals; the importance of vaccinations, wellness and spaying/neutering of pets).
• Oversee pet adoptions and donations, kennel sanitation, euthanasia procedures and ensure compliance with State law and reporting methods; reviews financial, adoption, reclaim, and other related reports to ensure accuracy.
• Prepares and implements annual service agreements with humane societies and other local municipalities as needed. Provide assistance to various municipalities within the county on issues related to animal services operations. Collaborates with advisory boards to develop guidelines and provide protection for citizens from stray, diseased or dangerous animals.
• As Required:  Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Animal Science, Criminal Justice or related field.

Experience: Four (4) years of progressively responsible supervisory experience in animal control with an understanding of enforcing state and local laws, regulations, codes and ordinances within a government agency.

• Knowledge of animal diseases and its relation to humans.
• Knowledge and understanding of the habits of animals.
• Knowledge and understanding of best practices and trends in the animal services industry
• Excellent interpersonal, teambuilding and organizational skills.
• Strong leadership skills that will provide innovative approaches to animal service operations and motivate employees to perform at their highest levels. while placing high priority on public safety and well-being.
• Ability to create and expand upon partnerships and relationships with key community leaders.
• Ability to supervise others proactively.
• Ability to understand the procedures for the custodial care of animals.
• Ability to perform research and analysis.
• Ability to deal tactfully with diverse individuals enforcing Animal Control ordinances with firmness and impartiality.
• Ability to read, interpret and explain codes, ordinances, policies, procedures, rules and regulations to the public with tact and courtesy.
• Ab