ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Animal Control Dispatcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Calvert County

Animal Control Officer

Prince Frederick, MD · On-site

$26.54 - $28.41/hr

Handles radio communications with Animal Control Dispatcher and Calvert County Control Center. Issues written warnings and ordinance citations. Testifies in court hearings. Works directly with County ...

City of Blue Springs

Animal Control Officer

Blue Springs, MO · On-site

$19.69 - $29.53/hr

... Dispatch or Chain of Command. 2. Removes dead injured or dangerous animals from city streets and ... Responsible for cleaning and upkeep of animal control facility and the proper care of animals held ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAnimal Control Dispatcher Jobs

Animal Control Dispatcher information

See salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do animal control dispatcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal control dispatcher in the United States is $22.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Animal Control Dispatcher?

As an Animal Control Dispatcher, your day usually involves answering emergency and non-emergency calls related to animal incidents, gathering detailed information from callers, and coordinating response efforts with field officers. You will enter and track cases using specialized dispatch software, relay important safety instructions, and maintain clear communication both with the public and animal control staff. Additionally, you'll be responsible for updating records, documenting incidents, and sometimes notifying other agencies when needed. This role requires multitasking, quick decision-making, and strong organizational skills throughout your shift.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Animal Control Dispatcher position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Control Dispatcher, you need strong communication skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of local animal control regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, multi-line phone systems, and sometimes certification in emergency dispatch procedures are important. Outstanding candidates demonstrate poise under pressure, empathy, and the ability to quickly prioritize and coordinate responses. These competencies ensure effective routing of calls, public safety, and support for field animal control officers.

Is animal control like cops?

Animal control dispatchers are responsible for receiving calls about animal-related issues and coordinating responses from field officers. Unlike police officers, they do not enforce laws or make arrests but focus on animal welfare and safety, often working with local animal control agencies and using communication tools like radios and computers.

What is the highest paying job working with animals?

The highest paying jobs working with animals include veterinary surgeons, zoo directors, and specialized animal researchers, often requiring advanced degrees and certifications. These roles typically offer higher salaries due to their expertise, responsibility, and the level of education needed.

Do you have to be a cop to be an animal control officer?

Animal control officers do not need to be police officers, but they often work closely with law enforcement and may require law enforcement or animal control certifications. The specific requirements vary by jurisdiction and may include background checks, training, and licensing, but a police officer background is not typically mandatory.

What qualifications do you need to be an animal welfare officer?

Animal control dispatchers and animal welfare officers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring post-secondary education or training in animal care or law enforcement. Relevant skills include communication, problem-solving, and knowledge of local animal laws, and certifications in animal handling or first aid can be beneficial.

What is an Animal Control Dispatcher job?

An Animal Control Dispatcher is responsible for receiving and processing calls regarding animal-related incidents, such as stray, injured, or dangerous animals. They coordinate with animal control officers, law enforcement, and emergency responders to ensure timely assistance. Dispatchers record call details, provide information to the public, and maintain communication between field personnel and the dispatch center. Strong communication, multitasking, and problem-solving skills are essential for this role.

More about Animal Control Dispatcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Animal Control Dispatcher jobs? Cities with the most Animal Control Dispatcher job openings:
What states have the most Animal Control Dispatcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Control Dispatcher jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animal Control Dispatcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Control Dispatcher jobs are:
Animal Control Dispatcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Control Dispatcher job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 2% Internship, 46% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,823 per year, or $22 per hour.
Animal Control Officer - HEALTH

Animal Control Officer - HEALTH

Sedgwick County

Wichita, KS

$19.73/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Sedgwick County rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

506th of 657 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Department:  Health Dept. 

Job ID: 12888

Pay:  $19.73 per hour  

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm, may work more than 40 hours per week, including evenings and weekends  

Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees that includes health coverages, paid leave, regular compensation reviews, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.  For more detailed information, please visit our benefits page at SCBenefits.

The Animal Control Officer protects the public from disease or injury caused by animals and protects animals from improper use, abuse, neglect, or inhumane treatment. The Animal Control Officer enforces county municipal codes, including capturing stray animals, returning animals to owners, removal of dead animals, and encouraging and educating responsible pet ownership to the residents of Sedgwick County. The Animal Control team also encounters hostile and/or emotionally charged individuals and is exposed to pests, vermin, and other hazards when responding to calls. Employee may deploy to the field as a responder or in a leadership position during public health emergencies.

Perform field work as an Animal Control Officer

  • Capture animals that are running at large in the unincorporated areas of Sedgwick County including 2nd and 3rd class contract cities
  • Transport animals to the shelter for identification and admission
  • Prepare and maintain admission records on each animal admitted to the Wichita Animal Shelter
  • Return owned animals to residents when applicable
  • Contain stray livestock and determine ownership
  • May seize or transport livestock to holding facility or boarding facility until ownership is determined
  • Provide emergency medical care to injured animals
  • Transport animals to veterinarian or emergency animal hospital when applicable
  • Enforce county municipal animal codes through warnings and citations to residents found to be in violation
  • Attend court hearings and may testify for violations of county animal code
  • Educate the public on county animal code ordinances and animal ownership
  • Participate in 24/7 on-call rotation for animal emergencies

Maintain accurate documentation and perform program logistics

  • Utilize animal control software to record service calls, shelter intake, vaccination information, animal license requirements, bite investigations, resident history, and animal history
  • Complete accurate documentation of service calls and resident interaction communication
  • Complete live trap deposit
  • Complete receipt for live or deceased animal transports
  • Maintain animal control vehicle and equipment
  • Complete animal control dispatcher duties as assigned
  • Issue warnings and citations to residents that are in violation of Sedgwick County animal code of ordinances

Customer Service and Outreach Support

  • Assist internal and external customers. Provide education
  • Identify customer needs, clarify information, research issues; provide information or transfer calls as needed
  • Schedule and send reminders for job-related customer needs.
  • Manage email inboxes and faxes; monitor and respond to requests
  • Prepare outreach materials and attend events
  • Assist Animal Control Supervisor in administrative tasks when assigned

Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent. One year of experience in the humane and proper handling of animals or related experience. One year of experience in interacting with the public. Per Sedgwick County policy, this is a driving-level position that requires a valid US driver’s license without restrictions and current proof of automobile insurance. Must complete Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) IS 100, 200, and 700 courses within 30 days of employment. Must have or complete animal and basic human first aid and human CPR and AED training within the first 6 months of employment.

Preferred Qualifications: One year of direct experience working in animal control or city or county code enforcement. Associate’s degree in Animal Sciences, Criminal Justice, or a related field. License, certifications, etc.  National Animal Control Association or National Animal Cruelty Investigation School certification.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws. Please find more information under the following link.  Apply for a Job | Sedgwick County, Kansas

What Sedgwick County employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply