Step into a role where you’ll be out in the community, working directly with people and their dogs to support safety, wellbeing, and positive behaviour. As an Animal Control Officer with Napier City Council, you’ll be part of a tight-knit team that takes pride in doing the right thing — whether that’s educating dog owners, resolving incidents, or caring for dogs in our shelter.

This is a hands-on, active job where no two days look the same. You’ll use your judgement, your care for animal welfare, and your ability to work calmly and professionally in sometimes difficult situations. If you’re confident with dogs, great with people, and motivated by making a genuine impact in your community, this is a chance to bring your experience to a role with purpose.

Te Āheinga - The Opportunity

• Be a visible presence in the community, promoting responsible dog ownership and supporting public safety.
• Work hands-on with dogs in our shelter, supporting their care, wellbeing, and rehoming where possible.
• Respond to animal-related incidents, complaints, and enquiries, using sound judgement and strong communication.
• Join a supportive team environment where training, professionalism, and doing what’s right for animals and people matters.

He kōrero mōhou - About You

• National Certificate in Compliance and Regulatory Control (Animal Control) Level 4 or equivalent education, or equivalent on-the-job experience.
• Confident and capable in safely handling dogs, with good understanding of animal behaviour and safe practices.
• A strong communicator who can balance education and empathy with firmness and authority when required.
• Reliable, organised, physically fit, and able to stay calm, respectful, and professional in challenging or emotional situations.

Ngā painga mōhou - What we Offer

• 5 weeks annual leave after 2 years service
• Discounted Health Insurance Work Scheme + Eye Test Subsidy
• Retailer Discounts + Study assistance
• Employee Assistance Program (OCP)
• Quarterly values awards + Birthday vouchers + Social club
• Free flu vaccinations (annual)
• Ka Awatea Cultural Wānanga + NCC Kapa Haka
• Te Reo Māori language classes

This is a permanent, full time role working 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday, with an additional 3.5 hours every fourth weekend. You may also be required for back-up on call duties if situations are escalated. 

You will work out of Napier City Council’s Dog Shelter but spend time out around our local communities.

The annual salary package for this role is between $73,400-$86,200 (including KiwiSaver), with the final offer depending on your skills and experience.

Applications for this role close on 5 December 2025, however due to the highly competitive employment market we will be interviewing applications as we receive them and may close the role when we have found the right person. Please do not delay in making your application.

He kōrero mō Te Kaunihera o Ahuriri - About NCC

At Napier City Council, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and work to make our hiring process fair and accessible. If you need any support or adjustments during your application or interview, let us know—we’re happy to help!

Our success is grounded in strong partnerships with Mana Whenua and Iwi, supported by our Māori Partnerships team, Te Waka Rangapū, which builds cultural capability through education and training.

Before you join, you’ll need to complete pre-employment checks (including criminal background checks, with some roles requiring health screening & drug testing). As an NCC employee, you may also be called on to support Civil Defence emergencies when our community needs us most.

Please visit Napier City Council Careers website to see full job description

Job Description – Animal Control Officer