We acknowledge that we live, work, and play on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded tm̓xʷúlaʔxʷ (land) of the syilx/Okanagan people, who have resided here since time immemorial. The RDCO honours and respects the deep connection the syilx/Okanagan Nation has to this land.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan is home to a dedicated team committed to serving our vibrant and growing community. Located in the heart of the Okanagan Valley—one of British Columbia’s most desirable places to live—we enjoy a lifestyle that blends natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community.

We offer a comprehensive compensation package that includes competitive pay, extended health, dental and vision benefits, paid vacation, participation in the Municipal Pension Plan, and ongoing professional development. Additional perks such as on-site parking, opportunities for career advancement, and a focus on work-life balance make the RDCO a great place to build a meaningful career while making a positive impact.

Dog Control Officer I - Relief

Kelowna

Closes: 2026-01-05

Overview

The Dog Control Officer I (DCOI) is responsible for carrying out the Responsible Dog Ownership Bylaw enforcement duties throughout the Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO). This position works independently and closely within a team, requiring confidentially, professionalism, sound judgement and the ability to understand dog behaviour. This position’s priorities are to support public safety and provide a high level of customer service.

Responsibilities

1. Promote public safety and provide education regarding the bylaw and investigation process.

2. Investigate complaints, excluding major aggressive and/or dangerous dogs, covered under the RDCO Responsible Ownership Bylaw.

3. Follow the RDCO bylaw, policies and procedures.

4. Compose detailed, accurate and timely records subject to Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIPA) legislation.

5. Represent RDCO in disputed Bylaw Notices in Adjudication hearings.

6. Testify in civil court proceedings.

7. Follow RDCO procedures in the safe impound, loading and transportation of dogs.

8. Respond to calls of injured dogs under guidance of Chief Bylaw Enforcement Officer.

9. Assist DCO II as requested.

10. Assist Pound Keeper as required including but not limited to:

a. Laundry, kennel cleaning, attending to dog medical needs;

b. Reception duties, i.e., customer service, dog license sales, processing payments, reconciliation of transactions.

1. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Training and Experience Required:

Minimum grade 12

Bylaw Enforcement & Investigative Skills Level I (or equivalent)

Valid BC Drivers Licence

WHMIS

First Aid Level 1

Dog First Aid Certificate

Satisfactory Police Information Check

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

Knowledge of RDCO Responsible Dog Ownership Bylaw.

Experience in handling dogs. i.e., SPCA, Kennels, Rescue Associations, etc.

Strong conflict resolution and excellent diplomacy skills.

Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and in a team.

Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Excellent computer skills and proficiency in MS office.

Minimum keyboarding 35 WPM.

Employment Level

Casual

Work Conditions

Physical Effort: Pursue, lift and/or restrain dogs. Walking with occasional hiking/climbing.

Physical Environment: Office 30%, Outdoors (all weather and at times remote locations) 70%.

Mental Stress: Responsible for the safety of the public in volatile situations. Assist Veterinarians with euthanasia. Testify in civil proceedings.

Sensory Attention: Risk assessment and attention to safety for self and fellow officers (radio monitoring).

Additional Information

This is a relief position, meaning on call, as needed, with no set schedule. The available working hours for this position are Monday - Sunday on any of the following shifts: 7:00 am - 4:00 pm, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, or 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm. This position pays $32.45 per hour.