HUMANE LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

Are you looking for an exciting, compassionate career combining animal welfare and law enforcement? Loudoun County Department of Animal Services (LCAS) located in Leesburg, Virginia, is currently seeking qualified applicants for the position of Humane Law Enforcement Officer (HLEO). Join a team of highly motivated, enthusiastic Officers working for a progressive, nationally recognized agency in a jurisdiction that is very supportive of our department's mission. LCAS approaches humane law enforcement proactively, focusing to ensure every case of animal cruelty, animal fighting and neglect is thoroughly investigated and prosecuted. Annually we respond to over 5,300 calls for service with more than 25% for investigations of crimes such as abandonment, animal cruelty and dangerous dogs. Every day as an HLEO in Loudoun County is different, challenging, and exciting, as our population of 435,000 people coexist with thousands of companion animals, livestock, and wildlife.

The successful candidate will respond to a variety of requests for service and will provide excellent humane law enforcement services to the community including: enforcing state and local laws, educating the public about proper animal care, and rescuing sick or injured animals of all species, including wildlife, livestock and companion animals. Work shifts include a rotation including early mornings, days, nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call. Initial and continuing education will be provided in animal cruelty investigation, firearms, equine management, technical animal rescue, courtroom presentation, disaster response, and other related topics. Training our officers in the latest and most advanced procedures and techniques to carry out their duties of protecting the animals and citizens of Loudoun County is a top priority of the command staff. LCAS Humane Law Enforcement Officers work as sworn, armed officers within the Department of Animal Services, which also includes the animal shelter, receiving 2,400 animals/year with a 95% live release rate.

Loudoun County Regular Full-time Employees are eligible for full benefits including but not limited to the following as a part of a total rewards package!

• Retirement from the Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
• Annual leave
• Sick leave
• Annual Paid Holidays
• Group Health Plan
• Group Life Insurance
• Exceptional Performance Recognition
• Credit Union Membership
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Education and Career Development

Hiring salary is commensurate with experience.

Requires any combination of education and experience equivalent to high school diploma and four years of relevant experience. Prefer Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Criminal Justice or related field and/or equivalent experience in work involving animal welfare or the veterinary field. Experience with companion animals and livestock is essential. Prefer some experience with exotics and wildlife. Must possess a valid driver's license. Spanish bilingual strongly preferred.

Humane Law Enforcement is a physically demanding occupation with the potential for exposure to infectious diseases, viruses, noxious fumes and chemicals, as well as risk of injury. A rabies pre-exposure vaccination series will commence immediately upon hire unless proof of prior vaccination is provided. Must have the ability to handle large and potentially dangerous animals over 100 pounds. Candidate will become a sworn Humane Law Enforcement Officer and will complete state mandated animal control training. Must obtain certification in euthanasia within six months of employment. Candidate will also be required to obtain certifications in CPR, First Aid, Incident Command System 100 & 200, and qualifications to use authorized firearms.

Successful candidate will undergo criminal background and DMV checks and physical examination, to include a drug screening and psychological exam. When on-call and using a take-home vehicle, HLEOs must operate from a location that is a maximum of 25 road miles from Government Center, located at 1 Harrison St SE, Leesburg, Virginia, or within Loudoun County limits.