Animal Control Dispatcher

Position Summary The Animal Control Dispatcher is responsible for receiving, documenting, prioritizing, and dispatching calls for animal control services within Walker County, Georgia. This position serves as a primary point of contact between the public, animal control officers, law enforcement, emergency services, and other county departments regarding animal-related complaints and service requests. The dispatcher gathers accurate information, evaluates the nature and urgency of reported incidents, communicates assignments to field personnel, maintains detailed records, and provides professional customer service to county residents. The position requires sound judgment, clear communication, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm and professional in stressful situations. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Answer incoming telephone calls, radio communications, and other requests for animal control services. Receive, document, and prioritize complaints involving stray animals, aggressive animals, animal bites, animal welfare concerns, injured animals, livestock on roadways, and other animal-related incidents. Obtain accurate information from callers, including names, contact information, incident locations, descriptions of animals, and details regarding potential safety risks. Dispatch animal control officers to service calls based on established procedures, incident priority, officer availability, and public safety considerations. Maintain communication with field officers and relay updates, additional information, and changes in incident conditions. Identify potentially dangerous or urgent situations and promptly notify the appropriate supervisor, law enforcement agency, emergency service, or other designated authority when necessary. Maintain accurate and timely records of calls for service, officer assignments, dispatch times, incident dispositions, and follow-up requests. Enter and update information in computer-aided dispatch systems, databases, spreadsheets, and other departmental recordkeeping systems. Provide callers with general information regarding animal control services, department procedures, applicable county ordinances, and complaint processes. Communicate professionally with residents, county employees, law enforcement personnel, veterinarians, animal shelters, and other partner agencies. Maintain confidentiality of protected information and follow county policies regarding records, communications, and information security. Monitor pending calls and communicate unresolved issues to the appropriate personnel. Assist with preparing daily activity reports, call logs, statistical summaries, and other administrative documentation. Follow established procedures for emergency notifications, officer safety, radio communications, and incident escalation. Perform other related duties as assigned by the Animal Control Supervisor or authorized county management. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or GED required. (2) years of experience in administrative support, clerical work, customer service, office management, or a related field preferred. Experience in animal welfare, animal services, or local government is preferred. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook. Valid Georgia driver's license. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to communicate clearly and professionally over the telephone and two-way radio. Ability to remain calm, courteous, and effective when handling upset callers or stressful situations. Ability to gather accurate information and make sound decisions regarding call prioritization. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to enter information accurately into computer systems while communicating with callers or field personnel. Basic computer proficiency, including email, data entry, and electronic recordkeeping. Ability to understand and follow written and verbal …

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