Are you passionate about animal welfare and community safety? Do you have the skills and experience to enforce legislation and promote responsible dog ownership? If so, we want you to join the team at Belfast City Council as a Dog Warden.
Your Duties:
- To enforce and implement relevant legislation, including the Dogs (NI) Order 1983 (as amended), the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act (NI) 2011, the Dog Control Orders Regulations (NI) 2012, and other applicable laws in line with council policies and procedures.
- To patrol streets and public places, identifying and addressing issues relating to stray, uncontrolled, or dangerous dogs.
- To investigate complaints in accordance with the Police and Criminal Evidence (NI) Order 1989 where appropriate.
- To detect and respond to breaches of legislation, including issuing notices under relevant statutory powers.
- To identify and manage dogs subject to the Dangerous Dogs (NI) Order 1991.
- To collect stray or unwanted dogs and transport them safely to designated kennelling facilities.
- To inspect and make recommendations regarding the registration of breeding establishments and guard dog kennels under the Welfare of Animals Act 2011.
- To promote responsible dog ownership through public engagement, education initiatives, and delivery of awareness programmes.
- To liaise with key stakeholders including the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), the Police Service of Northern Ireland, council departments, veterinary professionals, and animal welfare organisations.
- To assist with veterinary procedures, including humane destruction where necessary, in accordance with departmental guidelines.
- To attend court or formal hearings and present evidence as required.
- To prepare accurate reports, case files, and correspondence, including recommendations for further action.
- To assess the condition and welfare of dogs handled, ensuring humane and compassionate treatment at all times.
- To maintain high standards of hygiene and adhere to departmental health and safety policies.
- To support additional duties as required, including emergency responses such as rabies control.
- To remain up to date with developments, best practice, and new procedures in dog control.
- To participate in training programmes, including induction, in-service training, and student development initiatives.
- To support the supervision, motivation, and development of any staff assigned to the role.
- To contribute to recruitment and selection processes as required.
- To comply with all council policies including customer care, equality, safeguarding, and health and safety.
- To carry out duties in a manner that enhances and protects the council’s reputation.
- To undertake any other duties commensurate with the role as required.
Your Profile:
- Hold a full, current driving licence valid in Northern Ireland, or have access to suitable transport to fulfil the duties of the role (reasonable adjustments will be considered where applicable).
- Demonstrate at least one year’s relevant experience in each of the following areas:
- Handling or controlling dogs in a formal environment.
- Dealing with members of the public, including managing challenging or contentious situations.
- Administrative work, including the use of computerised systems to produce reports and maintain accurate records.
Desirable/Shortlisting Criteria:
- At least two years’ relevant experience in the areas listed above.
- Experience working within an enforcement or legislative environment.
Additional Information:
- Part-time, temporary position.
- Location: 90 Dargan Crescent, Belfast.
- 18.5 average hours per week.
Four-week shift pattern:
- Week 1: Sunday 8:00am – 8:00pm and Friday 7:30am – 8:00pm
- Week 2: Thursday 8:00am – 8:00pm
- Week 3: Thursday 8:00am – 8:00pm and Friday 8:00am – 8:00pm
- Week 4: Wednesday 8:00am – 8:00pm and Saturday 8:00am – 8:00pm
If this role isn’t for you, Lynn Recruitment offers a wide range of career opportunities. To apply, simply email us at [email protected] or visit our website and click the “Save” button to get started.
Lynn Recruitment is an equal opportunities employer and adheres to all current employment legislation. Please note that only shortlisted candidates may be contacted.
Pay: £15.82 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
