District of Houston

Animal Control / Bylaw Enforcement Officer

(Part Time, 24 Hours/Week)

The District of Houston is looking for an Animal Control / Bylaw Enforcement Officer. This position is a part-time (3 days/24 hours per week), exempt, non-unionized position.

The ideal candidate for this position will have a strong background in regulatory enforcement or animal control (or an equivalent combination of education and experience), exercise sound judgment and professionalism, possess strong investigative and communication skills, and be comfortable working both independently and in public-facing situations while supporting community safety and standards.

The Community
Houston is nestled in the beautiful Bulkley Valley amongst some of BC’s finest outdoor recreational opportunities. Strategically located halfway between the hub cities of Prince George and Terrace, the District and its surrounding countryside can be enjoyed year round, offering a range of activities including cross country skiing, hiking, fishing, biking, and snowmobiling. With a population of 3200, Houston is well known for its small-town charm and warm hospitality.

Houston has amazing indoor recreation facilities and access to the outdoors, making the community a big draw for the overall quality of life.

The Animal Control / Bylaw Enforcement Officer
Reporting to the Director of Protective Services, the Animal Control / Bylaw Enforcement Officer is responsible for enforcing municipal bylaws and applicable provincial legislation to support public safety, community standards, and regulatory compliance within the District of Houston. The position carries a dual focus on general bylaw enforcement and animal control services and requires a balance of education-based enforcement, investigation, and regulatory action.

The Officer investigates complaints, conducts inspections, gathers evidence, prepares detailed enforcement files and reports, and may attend hearings or court as required. The role involves regular interaction with the public and requires diplomacy, tact, and professionalism when addressing complex or confrontational situations. The Officer works collaboratively with internal departments, external agencies, and service providers while exercising independent judgment in the field.

Key responsibilities include responding to bylaw and animal control complaints, conducting proactive patrols, issuing compliance notices or bylaw notices where appropriate, educating residents on bylaws and responsible pet ownership, capturing and transporting stray or at-risk animals using safe handling practices, maintaining accurate enforcement and animal control records, and supporting reporting and policy development activities related to bylaw enforcement.

Qualifications

Completion of Grade 12 education.
Bylaw Compliance, Enforcement and Investigative Skills Level I and II from the Justice Institute of British Columbia, or equivalent recognized training (or a willingness/ability to obtain within the first six months of employment).
Eligibility for appointment as a Bylaw Enforcement Officer under the BC Police Act.
Completion of a minimum 20-hour relevant Animal Control training program or equivalent experience (or a willingness/ability to obtain within the first six months of employment).
Strong investigative, enforcement, and problem-solving skills, including the ability to prepare detailed written reports and legal documentation.
Ability to effectively communicate and engage with the public in a professional, respectful, and consistent manner.
Standard First Aid or equivalent, CPR C and AED.
Possession of a current, valid Class 5 B.C. Driver’s Licence with a clear driver’s abstract.
Completion of satisfactory Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector checks.

Compensation
The Animal Control / Bylaw Enforcement Officer will receive an hourly wage of $38.89, a comprehensive benefits package, as well as a family pass to the District’s top-notch Leisure Centre.

This position may be eligible for enrolment in the pension plan after a period of 2 years, subject to applicable eligibility criteria.

How to Apply:
Applications for this opportunity must be submitted by email to Karen Hogstead, Director of Corporate Services at hr@houston.ca by 4:00pm on April 30, 2026.

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position and advise that only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

Job Description

District of Houston

Open Positions

Animal Control / Bylaw Enforcement Officer