City of Toronto

ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER 1

City of Toronto$98K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Post-secondary education in law enforcement, municipal by-law, or criminology.
  • Certification or diploma in animal care from a recognized institution or equivalent experience.
  • Considerable experience working directly with animals.
  • Experience in law enforcement with a focus on detailed investigation reporting.
  • Proficient in computerized records management systems and standard office applications.
  • Valid Ontario Class 'G' Driver's License with ability to obtain City Operator's permit.

Responsibilities

  • Conducts sensitive investigations related to city bylaws and regulations.
  • Leads investigations and provides guidance to junior staff.
  • Develops comprehensive investigation plans and methodologies.
  • Collects evidence through interviews and on-site inspections.
  • Analyzes collected data to recommend legal actions or resolutions.
  • Writes detailed reports summarizing findings and recommendations.
  • Oversees the humane capture and care of animals in custody.

Benefits

  • Full-time temporary position for five months.
  • Rotating shifts providing diverse work hours.
  • Opportunity for professional development in animal services.
  • Exposure to both fieldwork and community engagement activities.
  • Positive work environment in public service setting.
Full Job Description
  • Job ID: 65636
  • Job Category: Animal Care & Control
  • Division & Section: Municipal Licensing & Standards, MLS Toronto Animal Services
  • Work Location: 146 The East Mall, Toronto
  • Job Type & Duration: Full-time, Temporary Vacancy (5 Months)
  • Hourly Rate: $47.43
  • Hours & Shift Information: 10/12 hours per shift, rotating 7 days/week; 80 hours in 2-week period per week
  • Affiliation: L416 Outside
  • Number of Positions Open: 1
  • Posting Period: 24-Jul-2026 to 10-Aug-2026

Job Description

Reporting to the Animal Services Supervisor, the Animal Control Officer 1 will provide work direction and guidance to Animal Services staff in the areas of animal care, by-law application, enforcement and customer service.

Major Responsibilities:

  • Conducts and oversees complex sensitive and confidential investigations relating to City of Toronto Municipal Code Chapters, City bylaws and provincial statues.
  • Conducts objective, fair, thorough, unbiased and timely investigations and gathers evidence, review files and gathers necessary information to identify relevant issues.
  • Leads, directs and defines the priority and scope of investigations; develops plans of action, provides effective guidance and work instruction for day-to-day activities to Animal Control Officers 2.
  • Drafts investigation plans for consultation and early identification of issues by assessing the scope and determining the methodology and techniques required to carry out a thorough, objective and effective investigation with a focus on rigorous fact-finding, fairness, timelines and attention to detail.
  • Coordinates list of people to be interviewed, communicates with complainants and conduct son site interviews and inspections to gather evidence using a variety of interviewing techniques and records statements.
  • Analyzes all evidence and findings collected during an investigation, recommends appropriate steps after the investigation; including identification and analysis of any legal/regulatory issues and identifies potential investigative barriers and recommends solutions.
  • Writes detailed, high-quality reports and correspondence setting out facts of a case cogently, objectively and accurately and in appropriate detail, followed by a well-reasoned analysis and objective assessment of the evidence.
  • Assesses current cases for potential early or alternative resolution and takes appropriate steps to facilitate resolution.
  • Leads or participates as a team member on complex investigations from inception to completion, ensuring investigation is completed thoroughly and in a timely manner.
  • Oversees, maintains, and closes assigned files in accordance with organizational standards including meeting established timelines and deadlines.
  • Establishes good working relationships with all stakeholders including complainants, agencies boards and commissions.
  • Shares relevant information with other investigators and Animal Control Officers.
  • Exercises independent judgment in the field. Consults with manager and/or legal services for guidance where appropriate.
  • Appears in court as an expert municipal witness to present testimony and evidence.
  • Provides humane and skilled capture, handling and restraint of domestic, exotic and wild animals, transports animals safely to shelters or other locations including sick and injured animals, and animals that present a risk to public safety.
  • Provides care of animals in custody, including feeding/watering, and observing and reporting health and behaviour conditions. Administers animal health requirements, assists and/or performs euthanasia under the direction of the Veterinarian.
  • Participates in the delivery of public education programs and animal services events.
  • Promotes responsible pet ownership through the delivery of animal services programs.
  • Utilizes computer systems for case management, data input, information retrieval, and other information technologies related to animal services.
  • Completes all requisite inspections to ensure sanitation and organization of the work location, animal services equipment, supplies, and vehicles, to meet all health and safety standards.
  • Trains staff in all aspects of field operations and provides feedback on performance.
  • Issues Orders to Comply, Part I and Part III processes of the Provincial Offences Act for non-compliance of the Toronto Municipal Code, Dog Owners' Liability Act, and other City by-laws.
  • Performs work in a safe, efficient and courteous manner.

Key Qualifications:
  1. Post-secondary education in a related discipline (i.e. Law enforcement, Municipal by-law and/or Criminology).
  2. Post-secondary education (certification or diploma) in animal care from recognized institution or the approved equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
  3. Considerable experience working directly with animals.
  4. Considerable experience in law enforcement preparing high quality detailed investigation reports, identifying and applying relevant municipal chapters and various legislations.
  5. Experience in the use of technology and a computerized records management system (i.e. Chameleon) and standard PC applications (i.e. Word, Excel, email etc.).
  6. Must possess and maintain a valid Province of Ontario, Class "G" Driver's License, and must have the ability to obtain the required City Operator's permit for assigned vehicle(s) and equipment(s).

You must also have:
  • Good physical condition, strength and agility are required for all aspects of the Animal Control Officer position 1, including long amounts of time spent driving, handling and lifting animals, including deer, large dogs and heavy articles (i.e. crates, aquariums, animal supplies) weighing up to 25 kg.
  • Understanding of animal behaviour in domestic and wildlife species and the ability to handle and capture a wide variety of animals, including injured and possibly dangerous animals, utilizing humane capture tools, equipment and techniques.
  • Required to be immunized against rabies and have a titre test every two years to determine immunity level and if needed, receive booster vaccinations.
  • Ability to work rotating shifts (day, afternoon, night, weekend and holidays) and standby as required. May be required to do shift/overtime and weekend work in conformance with the collective agreement.
  • Ability to develop & deliver public educational programs.
  • Strong commitment to customer service and quality principles in service delivery and application of administrative fairness


Please Note: Successful candidate will be required to provide a current Criminal Police Reference Check as a condition of employment for this position

About City of Toronto

City of Toronto provides its users with information on the lifestyles, business, and locations of Toronto. Lifestyle information consists of health, energy, services, children’s services, arts, culture, festivals, events, housing, and transportation. Business-related information consists of investments, startups, reports, event planning, and city-based partnerships. Furthermore, it provides its users with history, facts, images, events, and attractions of Toronto. City of Toronto is based in Ontario.

City of Toronto Careers

There has never been a better time to explore the diverse job opportunities at the City of Toronto—the hub of professional growth and innovation in the region.

Work You’ll Experience

Join the City of Toronto’s dynamic team to assist in transforming the city through public service and innovative leadership. The City of Toronto offers a unique position in the marketplace, combining public administration with cutting-edge initiatives that enhance the lives of its residents. Engage with a team of skilled professionals dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The City of Toronto is not just a place of employment; it is a place where careers flourish and where the professional environment encourages continuous personal and professional development.

City of Toronto Jobs and Employment

The City of Toronto is building a market-leading workforce that supports the city’s vision through strategic leadership and proactive management. This team helps to master the challenges of urban growth and community service.

Innovative Work

At the City of Toronto, innovation isn’t just a buzzword—it's a practical approach to solving real-world issues that affect millions of people. With projects that range from improving municipal services to enhancing urban sustainability, employees at the City of Toronto push the boundaries of what is possible in public service.

Professional Growth and Development

The City of Toronto is committed to nurturing the careers of its employees with unmatched training, development programs, and leadership opportunities. Whether through professional development workshops, leadership training, or diversity training, the City ensures that every team member has the tools to succeed.

Explore Career Opportunities

From internships to full-time positions, the City of Toronto offers a range of job opportunities that cater to various skills and career aspirations. Positions in healthcare, engineering, finance, urban planning, and more are available, providing a broad spectrum of career paths for job seekers.

The City of Toronto Employment Culture

The City’s employment culture is centered on creating a supportive and inclusive workplace. This culture is evident in its commitment to diversity and innovation, where each team member’s contributions are valued and celebrated.

Stay Connected with City of Toronto Careers

Join the Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. The City of Toronto looks for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Explore the various benefits, from health insurance to retirement plans, that make the City of Toronto a premier employer.

Keep Up to Date

Stay informed with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights—all from the professionals who are part of the City of Toronto team.

Job Alert Emails

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at the City of Toronto.

SEARCH CITY OF TORONTO JOBS

READ CAREERS BLOG

Learn more about City of Toronto
Size
10,001 employees
Industry

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at City of Toronto

More Education, Government & Non-Profit Jobs

Find similar ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER 1 jobs: