HUMANE LAW ENFORCEMENT INVESTIGATOR

Loudoun County Animal Services is a progressive, public animal welfare, law enforcement and sheltering agency located in northern Virginia, on the edge of the DC metropolitan area. Annually we respond to over 5000 calls for service with more than 25% for investigations of crimes such as abandonment, animal cruelty and dangerous dogs. Every day as a Humane Law Enforcement Officer (HLEO) in Loudoun County is different, challenging, and exciting, as our population of 432,000 people coexist with thousands of companion animals, livestock, and wildlife spanning 521 square miles. Our animal shelter receives over 2,300 animals annually, with a 94% live release rate, and our outreach team touches thousands of people in the community through vaccine clinics, youth programs and special events. To learn more about our strategic plan, visit our website: About the Department | Loudoun County, VA - Official Website

Loudoun County's Department of Animal Services (LCAS) located in Leesburg, Virginia, is currently seeking qualified applicants for the new position of Humane Law Enforcement Investigator. The Investigator will lead complex animal cruelty and welfare investigations for the Department, particularly those rising to the level of a felony offense and investigate serious online crimes involving animals.

In this role, you will conduct interviews, analyze data and records, prepare investigative reports for complex crimes and present cases in court independently and in partnership with the Commonwealth Attorney's office. In addition to working independently on cases, the investigator will develop and provide trainings on animal related crimes and investigative practices to teammates within the Department of Animal Services and external law enforcement partner agencies. As a member of the leadership team, this position provides task supervision to assigned Humane Law Enforcement Officers (HLEOs) and assists them in developing their skills in advanced investigations and evidence management. Following a training and probationary period, work shifts will be determined by the demands of ongoing investigations. This may consist of early mornings, days, nights, weekends, and holidays, but is anticipated to be primarily day shifts. Initial and continuing education will be provided in animal cruelty investigation, firearms, equine management, technical animal rescue, courtroom presentation, disaster response, and other related topics. Training our officers in the latest and most advanced procedures and techniques to carry out their duties of protecting the animals and citizens of Loudoun County is a top priority of the command staff. LCAS Humane Law Enforcement Officers work as sworn, armed officers within the Department of Animal Services. 

Loudoun County Regular Full-time Employees are eligible for full benefits including but not limited to the following as a part of a total rewards package:

• Retirement from the Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
• Annual leave
• Sick leave
• Annual Paid Holidays
• Group Health Plan
• Group Life Insurance
• Exceptional Performance Recognition
• Credit Union Membership
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Education and Career Development

Hiring salary is commensurate with experience

Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Animal Health Technology, Criminal Justice, or a related field; three (3) years of related work experience in the animal services profession involving public contact, interpretation, and enforcement of animal related laws, and including one (1) year of work supervision and administrative experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Valid driver's license and good driving record (driving records may be reviewed annually for continued qualification) and pass EVOC driving certification within 12 months of hire. Complete pre-exposure rabies vaccinations. Complete and continue renewal of certification in accordance with the Virginia Veterinarian's Directive 79-1 (Methods Prescribed or Approved for Animal Euthanasia). Complete FEMA ICS Certifications 100, 200, 700, and 800; and obtain certification to perform CPR/first aid. Use firearms in accordance with Department policy and maintain firearm certification. Complete training for law enforcement officers or animal control officers as approved by Commonwealth of Virginia within six (6) months of employment. Obtain and maintain the National Animal Cruelty Investigations School-Law Enforcement Training Institute (NACI-LETI) certified humane investigator credential (complete all three levels of said program/credential), or its equivalent. Similarly, complete and/or be certified in Interview and Interrogation techniques and practices, and Crisis Intervention Training within the same timeframe. Take law enforcement officer oath. Also prefer certification in Equine Cruelty Investigations.

Successful candidate will undergo pre-employment background checks to include criminal, fingerprint, credit, DMV, and CPS/APS checks. Must also pass a pre-employment physical examination, psychological examination, and drug screening. When on-call and using a take-home vehicle, HLEOs must operate from a location that is a maximum of 25 road miles from Government Center, located at 1 Harrison St SE, Leesburg, Virginia, or within Loudoun County limits.