Companion Animals Officer

About us

At Penrith City Council, we’re passionate about people; in our community and in our workplace. We want you to be able to be your best self and we get that work is just one part of your life, so we’re here to support you in the moments that matter. As the winner of the 2020 Local Government Excellence in People and Culture Award and an Excellence Award winner in the 2020 Australian HR Awards, you can be confident in joining a workplace that offers truly outstanding benefits, including:

• A range of flexible work arrangements
• 18 weeks paid maternity leave
• Health and wellbeing leave
• 15 days personal leave
• Significant financial and leave support for undertaking further education
• Diverse salary packaging And much, much more!

Environmental Health and Compliance plays a vital role in protecting the health, environment and safety of our growing City. Our team of dedicated professionals are responsible for environmental protection and public health programs, development compliance, regulatory and animal services.

About the role

Council’s Ranger and Animal Services Team are seeking an appropriately qualified person to fill the position of Companion Animals Officer. 

As a Companion Animals Officer, you will be responsible for undertaking a variety of companion animal related tasks including:

• Implementation of education and information programs to support the Companion Animals Act, 1998
• Seizing/handling companion animals (including dangerous, menacing and restricted dogs),
• Investigating dog attacks, barking dogs and other nuisance complaints,
• Proactive and reactive patrols/inspections of roads, footpaths, parks and other public areas  

Essential Criteria

• Tertiary qualification in Animal Management, Regulatory Services/Investigation or willingness to obtain
• Demonstrated practical experience in companion animal handling 
• Demonstrated understanding of dog behaviour 
• Demonstrated knowledge of the Companion Animals Act 1998 and Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021
• Demonstrated skills and experience in investigations including conducting interviews and preparing briefs of evidence at court
• High-level written and verbal communication skills across a range of audiences  
• Current, unrestricted driver's licence

Desirable Criteria

• Current First Aid Certificate

Commencing Salary:  $73,747.00 - $85,364.00 per annum, plus 11% superannuation.

Access to a Leaseback Vehicle is available with this position; however, it is not a condition of employment.

Visit to view the position description and to find out more information about employment with Penrith City Council. To submit your application, please apply online using the link below.

Completed applications must be received by 11.55 pm on 24 April 2024. Please allow 4 weeks from the closing date for the processing of your application.

For further information about the position, please contact Mr Michael Middleton, Environmental Health Coordinator, on (02) 4732 7531.