CDA - Bureau of Animal Protection (BAP) Manager



CDA - Bureau of Animal Protection (BAP) Manager

Salary

$87,252.00 - $148,332.00 Annually

Location

Broomfield County, CO

Job Type

Full Time

Job Number

BAA-00236-11292021

Department

Department of Agriculture

Division

Commissioner's Office

Opening Date

11/29/2021

Closing Date

5/10/2023 7:07 AM Mountain

FLSA

Determined by Position

Primary Physical Work Address

305 Interlocken Parkway, Broomfield CO 80021

FLSA Status

Exempt; position is not eligible for overtime compensation.

Department Contact Information

Contact Mary Hunt at (303)869-9008 or mary.hunt@state.co.us

Type of Announcement

This announcement is not governed by the selection processes of the classified personnel system. Applications will be considered from residents and non-residents of Colorado.

How To Apply

Please submit an online application for this position at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/colorado. Reach out to the Department Contact to apply using a paper application, including any supplemental questions. Failure to submit a complete and timely application may result in the rejection of your application. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that application materials are received by the appropriate Human Resources office before the closing date and time listed.

Department Information



Who we are:
Agriculture is a part of all our lives. As an employee of the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA), you would be working in an agency that affects every person in the state because when you eat, wear clothes, or drive a car--you are part of agriculture. The primary goals of CDA are to strengthen and advance Colorado's agriculture; promote a safe and high quality food supply;  protect consumers; and foster responsible stewardship of the environment and natural resources. Colorado's food and agriculture industry generated $47 billion of economic activity in 2019 and supports nearly 5% of the state's workforce.  CDA is proud to be a part of such an important industry.  Visit our website at https://ag.colorado.gov/to learn more about our Department.

What you get from us: 
In addition to a great work location and rewarding and meaningful work, we offer:
  • Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus optional 401(k) and 457 plans  (www.copera.org)
  • Medical and dental health plans (https://stateofcoloradobenefits.com/)
  • Employer supplemented Health Savings Account ($60 per month)
  • Paid life insurance, plus additional optional life insurance options
  • Paid Short Term Disability and optional Long Term Disability coverage
  • 10 paid holidays per year plus generous vacation and sick leave accruals
  • BenefitHub state employee discount program
  • Employee Wellness program MotivateMe
  • Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, remote work opportunities, free parking, professional development and more!

To learn about the total compensation package for State government employment visit: https://www.colorado.gov/dhr/totalcompensation


Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.
 
Learn more about our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion by visiting our EDI Homepage: https://dpa.colorado.gov/about-us/edi.   

Description of Job

Work Unit:
The Bureau of Animal Protection (BAP) work unit is established in statute and managed by the Colorado Department of Agriculture.  The BAP program comprises CDA staff, other state employees, law enforcement agents, and staff from non-profit organizations. These agents work together to respond to instances of animal abuse, neglect, mistreatment, and abandonment.  Leading the program is a BAP program manager.   This program coordinates investigations involving BAP agents and assists legal counsel on civil or criminal actions if needed based on the results of an investigation.   In addition, the BAP program coordinates closely with the PACFA program, leveraging internal resources and investigative knowledge to look into instances of animal abuse and neglect by pet care facilities.

Position:
This position serves as Department lead and program manager for the BAP program. This position will be a non-classified position and will be charged with executing on the Governor’s vision for improving animal protection across the State. Primary duties include coordination and oversight of approximately 100 commissioned BAP agents (outside the State system), including law enforcement authorities that respond to complaints of animal cruelty and neglect. This includes providing agents training and managing the commissioning process for each agent. The position serves as the leading coordinator on investigations conducted by BAP agents on investigations related to companion animals. The position coordinates with internal staff and law enforcement officers on investigations and enforcement actions related to livestock. In addition, this position oversees the daily management of program operations and conducts industry outreach and education on animal health and welfare issues.

Other duties may be assigned based on the Department’s needs such as: involvement with animal emergency incidents; participation in compliance of disease control programs, livestock inspections, disease surveillance and outbreak response; and regulatory work during livestock events, shows, and exhibitions. This position travels as needed throughout the state for field inspections, assessments, and assisting investigations and other job duties.

Duties:
  • Reviews BAP agent applications and makes joint recommendations with the supervisor to the Ag Commission for approval and subsequent appointment by the Commissioner. Develops and approves training venues and curricula for law enforcement and BAP agents to satisfy BAP rule requirements for continuing education.   

  • Communicates and advises BAP agents and other law enforcement officials actively investigating civil or criminal animal neglect/mistreatment/abandonment and animal fighting. 

  • Manages the intake of complaints to the BAP Program. Conducts initial assessments to determine the credibility of complaints and which BAP resources should be leveraged to best investigate the complaint. Plays a leading role in aiding in the investigation, planning strategy, and determining course of the investigatory action. 

  • Works with local animal protection and humane and/or law enforcement officials to advance cooperation in the investigation of potential animal mistreatment, neglect or abandonment. 

  • Coordinates the team that provides input on animal protection and cruelty issues in meetings with political entities, lobbyists, and private humane organizations, as well as city and county governments in Colorado.  

  • Coordinates with CDA officials, legislators, and stakeholders to review and revise legislation affecting animal l cruelty and neglect issues. 

  • Serves as part of the team that recommends courses of action and use of the statutes, and provides input to district attorneys.  

  • Coordinates with and helps with investigations with BAP agents from nonprofit corporations, and municipal and county law enforcement on complaints related to companion animals. 

  • Aids and assists local agencies with the seizure of domestic or other privately owned animals and livestock.  

  • Analyzes the investigative findings of  BAP agents and assist local law enforcement agencies when necessary by drafting, reviewing, and helping to execute search and seizure warrants. 

  • Assists and coordinates with the Pet Animal Care Facilities Act (PACFA) program as needed when complaints are received involving companion animals.  

  • Acts as an intermediary between animal owners and law enforcement (when needed), especially when it involves production animal agriculture. This position must be aware of the nature of such investigations and the potential liabilities for the Department. 

  • Oversees the administrative duties of the Bureau, including compliance in the submission of reports by BAP agents, and administration of the BAP Stakeholder Task Force. Responsible for financial management and budget administration of the BAP program.   

  • Oversees the electronic reporting system for reporting animal cruelty investigations from the BAP agents and participating jurisdictions. Enters animal cruelty complaints and information on animal cruelty cases into the electronic reporting system upon receipt. 

  • Reviews and analyzes statutes and rules, and recommend changes as needed, as related to animal cruelty/mistreatment/neglect/abandonment.  

  • Communicates and collaborates with stakeholders on proposed rules and/or statute changes and other policy matters as appropriate. Determines timely topics for BAP newsletters and articles concerning animal protection laws and cruelty issues. 

  • Administers the BAP Stakeholder Task Force. 

*Note: Impending legislation may authorize three additional full-time position for the BAP Unit that would be supervised by the BAP Program Manager 

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights


This position is Non-classified.  Applications will be considered from residents and non-residents of Colorado.

 
Minimum Requirements:
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a field of study relevant to the position.
Experience:
  • Six (6) years full-time experience of professional experience in agribusiness, agriculture, livestock husbandry, law enforcement, investigations, or animal control. 
  • See substitutions below.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Program management and supervision experience.
  • Animal agriculture or pet animal course work or actual field experience with livestock or pet animals.
  • Experience in the assessment, inspection, and in assisting investigations of cruelty, neglect, mistreatment, abandonment, and other complaints concerning animal welfare.
  • Experience in law enforcement, issuing complaints, or other law-enforcement related duties, including investigations.
  • Strong background in animal agriculture and husbandry or pet animals.
  • Proficiency in operating a truck and hauling different types of trailers.
  • Background in animal behavior including livestock, pet animals, and to a certain extent, wildlife.
  • Expertise in handling livestock and using livestock handling systems.
  • Veterinary medical or veterinary technician training or experience.
Substitutions:
  • Professional experience in agribusiness, agriculture, livestock husbandry, animal control, or the equivalent demonstrated skills from related work experience that provided the same kind, amount and level of knowledge acquired in the required education may be substituted on a year-for-year basis for the bachelor's degree.
  • Master's or doctorate degree from an accredited college or university in  a degree relevant to the assignment may be substituted for the bachelor's degree and one year of general experience. 
Conditions of Employment:
  • Must possess and maintain a valid Colorado Driver's License with the ability to independently travel.
  • Circumstances may require position to work outside of regular business hours.

  • Effective September 20, 2021, employees will be required to attest to and verify that they are fully vaccinated for COVID-19, or, submit to twice-weekly serial testing. Upon hire, new employees will have three (3) business days to provide attestation to their status with proof of vaccination, or begin twice-weekly serial testing for COVID-19.

    Testing locations will  be determined and testing will be considered paid work time.

    Note:  Fully Vaccinated means two (2) weeks after a second dose in a two-dose series of the COVID-19 vaccine, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or two (2) weeks after the single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine, as defined by the State of Colorado’s Public Health Order and guidance issued by the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment. 

Required Competencies:
  • Clear understanding and experience in animal welfare regulations, animal science, animal health, or biological sciences.
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication and public speaking skills.
  • Project management skills: ability to multitask, problem-solve, prioritize, create systems and processes and collaborate with and engage others.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and juggle multiple priorities, and able to react and adjust quickly to changing conditions.
  • Detail oriented.
  • Excellent communication skills; able to communicate effectively and articulately in writing and orally with diverse communities in all corners of the state.
  • Work well under pressure.
  • Strong relationship management skills and excellent representation of the department in community interactions.
  • A proven track record for developing and maintaining trusted relationships with stakeholders and industry experts.
  • Excellent negotiation and consensus building skills.
  • Proactive approaches to problem-solving and with strong decision-making capability.
  • Highly resourceful team-player, with the ability to also be extremely effective independently.
Important Information:
Part of, or the entire selection process for this position will involve a review of the information you submit in your application materials. Therefore, it is paramount that in the experience portion of your application, you describe the extent that you possess the education, experience and competencies outlined in the job announcement as well as the special and/or preferred qualifications. Failure to include adequate information or follow instructions may prevent you from competing in subsequent measures used to arrive at a top group of applicants.

Please submit the following: 
  • Online application (completed fully) describing how you meet the minimum qualifications
  • OR If you are not able to submit an online application, a paper application is available at this link: PDF State Paper Application.  Paper applications must be received (either by US mail or email to mary.hunt@state.co.us by the closing date and time of the application period listed on this announcement.
  • Unofficial copy of transcripts (if applicable)
  • DD214 (if applicable)
Factors that will be assessed: 
  • Technical Competence – Technical experience as it relates to the duties outlined in this job announcement.
  • Depth and Breadth of Experience – Experience that covers multiple areas outlined in this job announcement.  Experience should be varied and not one dimensional, and demonstrate a wide range of community involvement.
  • Job Fit – Experience will be evaluated to determine how well your past experience aligns with and meets the business needs of this position.  Current experience is preferred.
APPEAL RIGHTS:
If you receive notice that you have been eliminated from consideration for this position, you may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director.

An appeal or review must be submitted on the official appeal form, signed by you or your representative. This form must be delivered to the State Personnel Board by email (dpa_state.personnelboard@state.co.us), postmarked in US Mail or hand delivered (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203), or faxed (303.866.5038) within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department’s action.

For more information about the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it to the State Personnel Board; go to spb.colorado.gov; contact the State Personnel Board for assistance at (303) 866-3300; or refer to 4 Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, at spb.colorado.gov under Rules.

Supplemental Information

Important Information: Part of, or the entire exam for this position will involve a review of the information you submit in your application material.   Applications are considered complete and accurate at the time of submission. Therefore, additional information may not be solicited or accepted after your application has been received.  Therefore, it is very important that you clearly describe all of your relevant experience on the application itself. Applications left blank or marked "SEE RESUME" will not be considered.

All applications that are received by the closing date of this announcement will be reviewed against the Minimum Qualifications in this announcement by a Human Resources Specialist. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications may proceed to the next step. Colorado Revised Statutes require that state employees are hired and promoted based on merit and fitness through a comparative analysis process.

ADAAA Accommodations: Any person with a disability as defined by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) may be provided a reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to complete an employment assessment. To request an accommodation, please contact by phone or email at least five business days before the assessment date to allow us to evaluate your request and prepare for the accommodation. You may be asked to provide additional information, including medical documentation, regarding functional limitations and type of accommodation needed. Please ensure that you have this information available well in advance of the assessment date.
 
The Department of Agriculture is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to Mary Hunt, at mary.hunt@state.co.us or call 303-869-9006.

Toll Free Applicant Technical Support: If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV technical support at 855-524-5627 Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application first, ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and second, close the document before you attempt upload (attach) it.

Please note that each agency's contact information is different; therefore, we encourage all applicants to view the full, official job announcement which includes contact information and class title. Select the job you wish to view, then click on the "Print" icon.

01
This position requires a bachelor's degree in animal science, animal health, or biological sciences, or in a field of study closely related and six years of relevant experience. Or, ten years of relevant work experience to substitute. Do you meet this requirement?
  • Yes
  • No
02
What is your experience in law enforcement and/or the assessment, inspection, and in assisting investigations of cruelty, neglect, mistreatment, abandonment, and other complaints concerning animal welfare?
03
What is your background in animal agriculture, animal husbandry or pet animals.
04
What experience do you have working with law enforcement, and/or writing legal actions such as summons and complaints; civil penalties; administrative search warrants; and cease and desist orders?

Required Question

Agency
State of Colorado
Address
See the full announcement by clicking
the "Printer" icon located above the job title
Location varies by announcement, Colorado, --