Humane Special Agent

Level: Experienced

Job Location: Portland Campus - Portland, OR

Salary Range: $37.50 - $42.15 Hourly

Description

About the Oregon Humane Society

Founded in 1868, Oregon Humane Society is the Northwest's oldest and largest animal welfare organization with one of the highest adoption rates in the nation. We are working toward our vision of a world where all animals are treated with compassion, kindness and respect. With campuses in Portland and Salem, OHS is an Oregon-based nonprofit that relies on donor support for its adoption, education, medical and humane law enforcement programs. Visit oregonhumane.org to learn more about how we’re creating a More Humane Society.

The Team

The Humane Law Enforcement (HLE) team consists of both the Humane Law Enforcement Department and the Animal Crimes Forensic Center. HLE responds to and investigates reports of animal welfare crimes throughout the State of Oregon. HLE also assists outside agencies with investigatory support, resources and other assistance as requested.

The Animal Crimes Forensic Center is a resource for HLE and outside agencies located both in and outside of Oregon. The Animal Crimes Forensic Center conducts forensic veterinary exams on both live and dead animals to provide a critical component necessary for the successful prosecution of animal welfare crimes.

The Position

This position is a peace officer and a humane special agent, commissioned by the Superintendent of Oregon State Police to investigate and enforce animal welfare laws within the State of Oregon. The Humane Special Agent works primarily in the field, conducting investigations of complaints received by OHS regarding the welfare of a wide range of animals. Humane special agents are DPSST certified peace officers with authority to author search warrants and arrest persons for misdemeanor and felony criminal violations of animal welfare statutes.

Essential Responsibilities

PERSONAL LEADERSHIP

• Consistently strives to exceed expectations; demonstrates flexibility, resilience, and the ability to maintain positive relationships and composure, even under difficult circumstances.
• Maintains high ethical standards, including exhibiting behaviors and actions that embrace and align to our organization and customer service values, while treating all people with respect and dignity.
• Demonstrates an awareness of your individual personal strengths and development needs, modeling non-defensive behavior and openness to feedback; builds a culture of feedback and learning.

LEARNING

• Contributes to regular dialogue and accountability with the leadership team and across the organization to review progress and course correct if necessary.
• Utilizes data and insights to identify, understand and articulate the key inputs and metrics that tell the story of the organization/team strategy and its progress.
• Builds appropriate feedback loops to measure if we are meeting key milestones and if the impact planned is being felt across the organization.

INFLUENCE & REPRESENTATION

• Communicate effectively to executive and other stakeholder groups to ensure they are informed and able to actively engage.
• Liaise with and maintain productive relationships with all stakeholders, including other departments, and donors; build mutually rewarding professional relationships inside OHS at all levels.
• Leverage our best practices externally and grow OHS’ reputation as a leader in the animal welfare space.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Investigate complaints and concerns about animal welfare.
• Works frequently with animals of varying size, species, and temperament; handling individual animals safely and humanely.
• Write and execute search warrants. Assist local enforcement agencies in executing warrants. Arrest persons via cite and release or physical custody.
• Collaborate with OHS medical and subject matter professionals to obtain information pertaining to investigations.
• Demonstrate good interpersonal communication and de-escalation skills.
• Demonstrate excellent investigative and interview skills.
• Collaborate with other law enforcement agencies on animal welfare investigations.
• Provide related education to the public, clients, staff, volunteers, other animal welfare organizations, and law enforcement agencies. Assist with OHS public education events such as tours, public speaking, interviews, presentations, and activities sponsored by the OHS Humane Education department.
• Assist other agencies in disaster situations. Perform animal rescues in collaboration with other OHS departments.
• Collaborate with the criminal justice system to prosecute crimes related to animal welfare laws. Participate in adjudication proceedings.
• Must be able to testify as a credible witness in a court of law as required.
• Prepare and maintain investigation and legal records in an accurate, complete, and timely manner.
• Maintain information integrity, security, and confidentiality to an exceptional degree. Read and comprehend complex laws, ordinances, plans, and orders.
• Perform data entry and maintain performance statistics using provided electronic tools and applications.
• Maintain and operate all job-related equipment, tools, and vehicles in a safe and reliable manner.

SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITY

Supervises: None

ACCOUNTABILITY

Reports Directly To: Chief of Humane Law Enforcement

Often Engages Directly With: Humane Law Enforcement Officers

Qualifications

Minimum Qualification & Transferable Skills

We are interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. We welcome applicants who bring a diversity of identity, culture, experience, perspective and thought. We encourage you to apply, even if you do not believe you meet every one of the qualifications described. You are also encouraged to address how your professional and lived experience, scholarship, mentorship and/or service will contribute to the Oregon Humane Society.

Minimum Requirements

• Must possess a high school diploma or GED certificate of high school equivalency (or a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution).
• Currently certified or eligible to be certified as a police officer in the State of Oregon without attending the Basic Police Academy is required.
• Experience as a Certified Police Officer is required. Preference will be given to candidates actively working as a law enforcement officer with more than three (3) years of experience.
• Must be able to testify as a credible witness in a court of law as required.
• Knowledge and/or experience working with a wide variety of animal species.
• Ability to meet physical requirements of an Oregon police officer.
• Certified in Red Cross CPR and basic first aid.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Able to remain calm, maintain a professional appearance, and exercise sound judgment during all interactions with others.
• Skilled at communicating effectively under stressful situations while maintaining composure and conveying clear concise information.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with chain of command, colleagues, and the public.
• Excellent organizational prioritization, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient in Windows based operating systems and Microsoft Office tools including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and possess and maintain an acceptable driving record throughout the course of employment.
• Employment is contingent upon the satisfactory physical and psychological testing, drug screening, fingerprinting, and background investigation check as required by the State of Oregon in order to become a special agent.
• Applicants must meet the Minimum Standards for Employment as a Law Enforcement Officer as provided for in the Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) 259-008-0010.

Preferred

• Associates or Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, law enforcement or discipline related to animal welfare
• Bilingual, Spanish - English

Work Environment Conditions & Physical Requirements

This position interacts and collaborates will all levels of the organization, including OHS staff, executive team members, donors, general-public, external vendors, volunteers, and supporters. Contact and communication is carried out through face-to-face, telephone and digital interactions. Excellent customer service skills are essential to success. Communication must be clear, understandable, professional and respectful in all circumstances.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work is performed in an office and medical center/animal shelter environment.
• Travel between the two campuses may be required.
• Working at both campuses may be required.
• Occasional weekend and evening work may be required.
• Animal contact and related injuries may occur.
• Noise exposure varies and sometimes includes uncontrolled barking and other animal vocalizations.
• Pace of work is active and demanding, requiring a high degree of multitasking and ability to adapt to changing priorities while managing concurrent projects/tasks to completion.
• Contact with angry or emotional people may occur.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Occasional lifting and moving of inanimate objects weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Occasional pushing and pulling of carted items weighing up to 100 lbs.
• Occasional moving items above shoulder level.
• Occasional use of hands and arms at or above shoulder level.
• Prolonged standing, sitting and/or stooping may occur.
• Occasional climbing and bending.
• Must be able to lift, move, restrain, guide, or manage an animal weighing up to 150 lbs. on a leash on an occasional basis.
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position for prolonged periods.
• Ability to respond and perform life saving techniques in an emergency.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Achieving our mission begins with how we build our team and work together. Through our commitment to enriching our organization with people of different origins, beliefs, backgrounds and ways of thinking, we are better able to leverage the collective power of our teams and address and overcome complex challenges and barriers. We strive for a culture of integrity, respect and compassion where every member of our community contributes their perspectives and authentic selves and where everyone reaches their potential as individuals and teams. We recognize that striving for diversity, equity and inclusion is a journey, and we are committed to learning, listening and evolving to become more diverse, equitable and inclusive than we are today.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Oregon Humane Society is an equal opportunity employer that does not tolerate discrimination on any basis. We actively seek out diverse backgrounds, perspectives and skills so that we can be collectively stronger and have sustained impact.

We are committed to providing an environment of respect and psychological safety where equal employment opportunities are available to all. We do not engage in or tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, disability (including HIV/AIDS status), marital status, military veteran status or any other protected group.

At-Will Employment

This position description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related duties required by their supervisor. This document does not create an employment contract implied or otherwise, other than an “at-will” relationship.

About the Oregon Humane Society

Founded in 1868, Oregon Humane Society is the Northwest's oldest and largest animal welfare organization with one of the highest adoption rates in the nation. We are working toward our vision of a world where all animals are treated with compassion, kindness and respect. With campuses in Portland and Salem, OHS is an Oregon-based nonprofit that relies on donor support for its adoption, education, medical and humane law enforcement programs. Visit oregonhumane.org to learn more about how we’re creating a More Humane Society.

The Team

The Humane Law Enforcement (HLE) team consists of both the Humane Law Enforcement Department and the Animal Crimes Forensic Center. HLE responds to and investigates reports of animal welfare crimes throughout the State of Oregon. HLE also assists outside agencies with investigatory support, resources and other assistance as requested.

The Animal Crimes Forensic Center is a resource for HLE and outside agencies located both in and outside of Oregon. The Animal Crimes Forensic Center conducts forensic veterinary exams on both live and dead animals to provide a critical component necessary for the successful prosecution of animal welfare crimes.

The Position

This position is a peace officer and a humane special agent, commissioned by the Superintendent of Oregon State Police to investigate and enforce animal welfare laws within the State of Oregon. The Humane Special Agent works primarily in the field, conducting investigations of complaints received by OHS regarding the welfare of a wide range of animals. Humane special agents are DPSST certified peace officers with authority to author search warrants and arrest persons for misdemeanor and felony criminal violations of animal welfare statutes.

Essential Responsibilities

PERSONAL LEADERSHIP

• Consistently strives to exceed expectations; demonstrates flexibility, resilience, and the ability to maintain positive relationships and composure, even under difficult circumstances.
• Maintains high ethical standards, including exhibiting behaviors and actions that embrace and align to our organization and customer service values, while treating all people with respect and dignity.
• Demonstrates an awareness of your individual personal strengths and development needs, modeling non-defensive behavior and openness to feedback; builds a culture of feedback and learning.

LEARNING

• Contributes to regular dialogue and accountability with the leadership team and across the organization to review progress and course correct if necessary.
• Utilizes data and insights to identify, understand and articulate the key inputs and metrics that tell the story of the organization/team strategy and its progress.
• Builds appropriate feedback loops to measure if we are meeting key milestones and if the impact planned is being felt across the organization.

INFLUENCE & REPRESENTATION

• Communicate effectively to executive and other stakeholder groups to ensure they are informed and able to actively engage.
• Liaise with and maintain productive relationships with all stakeholders, including other departments, and donors; build mutually rewarding professional relationships inside OHS at all levels.
• Leverage our best practices externally and grow OHS’ reputation as a leader in the animal welfare space.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Investigate complaints and concerns about animal welfare.
• Works frequently with animals of varying size, species, and temperament; handling individual animals safely and humanely.
• Write and execute search warrants. Assist local enforcement agencies in executing warrants. Arrest persons via cite and release or physical custody.
• Collaborate with OHS medical and subject matter professionals to obtain information pertaining to investigations.
• Demonstrate good interpersonal communication and de-escalation skills.
• Demonstrate excellent investigative and interview skills.
• Collaborate with other law enforcement agencies on animal welfare investigations.
• Provide related education to the public, clients, staff, volunteers, other animal welfare organizations, and law enforcement agencies. Assist with OHS public education events such as tours, public speaking, interviews, presentations, and activities sponsored by the OHS Humane Education department.
• Assist other agencies in disaster situations. Perform animal rescues in collaboration with other OHS departments.
• Collaborate with the criminal justice system to prosecute crimes related to animal welfare laws. Participate in adjudication proceedings.
• Must be able to testify as a credible witness in a court of law as required.
• Prepare and maintain investigation and legal records in an accurate, complete, and timely manner.
• Maintain information integrity, security, and confidentiality to an exceptional degree. Read and comprehend complex laws, ordinances, plans, and orders.
• Perform data entry and maintain performance statistics using provided electronic tools and applications.
• Maintain and operate all job-related equipment, tools, and vehicles in a safe and reliable manner.

SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITY

Supervises: None

ACCOUNTABILITY

Reports Directly To: Chief of Humane Law Enforcement

Often Engages Directly With: Humane Law Enforcement Officers

Minimum Qualification & Transferable Skills

We are interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. We welcome applicants who bring a diversity of identity, culture, experience, perspective and thought. We encourage you to apply, even if you do not believe you meet every one of the qualifications described. You are also encouraged to address how your professional and lived experience, scholarship, mentorship and/or service will contribute to the Oregon Humane Society.

Minimum Requirements

• Must possess a high school diploma or GED certificate of high school equivalency (or a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution).
• Currently certified or eligible to be certified as a police officer in the State of Oregon without attending the Basic Police Academy is required.
• Experience as a Certified Police Officer is required. Preference will be given to candidates actively working as a law enforcement officer with more than three (3) years of experience.
• Must be able to testify as a credible witness in a court of law as required.
• Knowledge and/or experience working with a wide variety of animal species.
• Ability to meet physical requirements of an Oregon police officer.
• Certified in Red Cross CPR and basic first aid.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Able to remain calm, maintain a professional appearance, and exercise sound judgment during all interactions with others.
• Skilled at communicating effectively under stressful situations while maintaining composure and conveying clear concise information.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with chain of command, colleagues, and the public.
• Excellent organizational prioritization, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient in Windows based operating systems and Microsoft Office tools including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and possess and maintain an acceptable driving record throughout the course of employment.
• Employment is contingent upon the satisfactory physical and psychological testing, drug screening, fingerprinting, and background investigation check as required by the State of Oregon in order to become a special agent.
• Applicants must meet the Minimum Standards for Employment as a Law Enforcement Officer as provided for in the Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) 259-008-0010.

Preferred

• Associates or Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, law enforcement or discipline related to animal welfare
• Bilingual, Spanish - English

Work Environment Conditions & Physical Requirements

This position interacts and collaborates will all levels of the organization, including OHS staff, executive team members, donors, general-public, external vendors, volunteers, and supporters. Contact and communication is carried out through face-to-face, telephone and digital interactions. Excellent customer service skills are essential to success. Communication must be clear, understandable, professional and respectful in all circumstances.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work is performed in an office and medical center/animal shelter environment.
• Travel between the two campuses may be required.
• Working at both campuses may be required.
• Occasional weekend and evening work may be required.
• Animal contact and related injuries may occur.
• Noise exposure varies and sometimes includes uncontrolled barking and other animal vocalizations.
• Pace of work is active and demanding, requiring a high degree of multitasking and ability to adapt to changing priorities while managing concurrent projects/tasks to completion.
• Contact with angry or emotional people may occur.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Occasional lifting and moving of inanimate objects weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Occasional pushing and pulling of carted items weighing up to 100 lbs.
• Occasional moving items above shoulder level.
• Occasional use of hands and arms at or above shoulder level.
• Prolonged standing, sitting and/or stooping may occur.
• Occasional climbing and bending.
• Must be able to lift, move, restrain, guide, or manage an animal weighing up to 150 lbs. on a leash on an occasional basis.
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position for prolonged periods.
• Ability to respond and perform life saving techniques in an emergency.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Achieving our mission begins with how we build our team and work together. Through our commitment to enriching our organization with people of different origins, beliefs, backgrounds and ways of thinking, we are better able to leverage the collective power of our teams and address and overcome complex challenges and barriers. We strive for a culture of integrity, respect and compassion where every member of our community contributes their perspectives and authentic selves and where everyone reaches their potential as individuals and teams. We recognize that striving for diversity, equity and inclusion is a journey, and we are committed to learning, listening and evolving to become more diverse, equitable and inclusive than we are today.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Oregon Humane Society is an equal opportunity employer that does not tolerate discrimination on any basis. We actively seek out diverse backgrounds, perspectives and skills so that we can be collectively stronger and have sustained impact.

We are committed to providing an environment of respect and psychological safety where equal employment opportunities are available to all. We do not engage in or tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, disability (including HIV/AIDS status), marital status, military veteran status or any other protected group.

At-Will Employment

This position description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related duties required by their supervisor. This document does not create an employment contract implied or otherwise, other than an “at-will” relationship.