Animal Services Officer

Job Description

Job Description

Your Mission :

As an Animal Services Officer, you will be on the front lines of protecting animals and promoting public safety in our community. You’ll respond to calls for service involving the welfare of animals, investigate reports of neglect or ordinance violations, and work to resolve conflicts between people and animals. Your efforts will directly support the mission of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa by fostering a responsible community where animals are valued and treated humanely.

What You’ll Do :

You will respond to calls regarding public safety, animal welfare, and quality-of-life concerns, including both domestic animals and, in some cases, wildlife. Your work will involve investigating cruelty, neglect, and bite cases, providing aid to injured or sick animals, and educating citizens about animal ordinances and responsible ownership. You’ll patrol city streets, ensure compliance with animal laws, issue warnings or citations when necessary, and maintain thorough, accurate reports of your daily activities. Operating Animal Services vehicles and equipment safely will be part of your day-to-day, and when necessary, you’ll perform humane euthanasia. Throughout all interactions—with ARL staff, law enforcement, and members of the public—you will represent the ARL and the City of Des Moines with professionalism and respect.

What You Bring :

You have a high school diploma or GED and a valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record. You’re comfortable operating larger vehicles and can pass a police background check. You remain calm and think clearly under pressure, making sound decisions even in fast-paced or stressful situations. You communicate effectively, prepare accurate documentation, and understand how to read and interpret city and state animal ordinances. You can work well with others, apply logical reasoning to complex situations, and perform basic mathematical calculations. Above all, you have a commitment to animal welfare and public service.

Working Conditions :

This role requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work outdoors in all types of weather, including extreme heat or cold. You may be exposed to odors, zoonotic diseases, animal waste, scratches or bites, and moderate noise. The position involves both sitting and standing for extended periods and responding to situations that can be physically and emotionally demanding.

Why Work at the ARL?

At the ARL, every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a difference—for both animals and people. You’ll join a supportive, mission-driven team that is passionate about creating a safer, more humane community. We offer a collaborative environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to be part of meaningful change for the animals and citizens we serve.

Employment in this position is at-will, meaning that either the employee or the ARL may terminate the employment relationship at any time.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and / or applicable state regulations, the Animal Rescue League will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations.

Wednesday through Saturday; 12 : 00 p.m. to 10 : 00 p.m.