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Animal Control Officer Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Animal Control Officer

Rochester, NY · On-site

Candidates who do not possess a NACA I certification or have less than one year of experience must begin as an Animal Control Officer Trainee* For full-time employees: The City of Rochester offers a ...

Smith County, TX

Animal Control Officer

Tyler, TX

$40K - $43K/yr

Animal Control Officers work to protect the health and safety of the community while ensuring the humane handling and care of animals in accordance with state law, local ordinances, and accepted ...

Nash County, NC

Animal Control Officer

Nashville, NC · On-site

$39K/yr

The Animal Control Officer also investigates any calls received pertaining to animal cruelty and/or neglect. Regular work schedule is 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Employee ...

Smith County

Animal Control Officer

Tyler, TX

Animal Control Officer The Animal Control Officer performs a variety of field and shelter duties related to the enforcement of animal control laws, protection of public safety, and promotion of ...

Nash County

Animal Control Officer

Nashville, NC · On-site

$39K/yr

The Animal Control Officer also investigates any calls received pertaining to animal cruelty and/or neglect. Regular work schedule is 8:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Employee participates ...

Smith County

Animal Control Officer

Tyler, TX

$40K - $43K/yr

Summary/Objective The Animal Control Officer performs a variety of field and shelter duties related to the enforcement of animal control laws, protection of public safety, and promotion of ...

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Animal Control Officer Trainee information

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$28.5K

$47.9K

$70.5K

How much do animal control officer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal control officer trainee in the United States is $47,913.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $54,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Animal Control Officer Trainee vs Animal Control Officer?

AspectAnimal Control Officer TraineeAnimal Control Officer
Required CertificationsBasic animal handling and safety training, sometimes state-specific certificationsSame as trainee, plus experience and additional certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentSupervised, training-focused, fieldwork with animals and public interactionsIndependent fieldwork, enforcement, and animal rescue activities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position in animal control departments, shelters, or municipal agenciesFull-time role with more responsibilities, often after completing trainee period

Animal Control Officer Trainee is an entry-level position designed to provide training and experience, while Animal Control Officer is a fully qualified role with greater responsibilities. Trainees typically work under supervision, gaining skills needed for the officer position. Both roles are essential in animal control services, with the trainee position serving as a stepping stone to becoming an officer.

What are Animal Control Officer Trainees?

Animal Control Officer Trainees are entry-level professionals who learn how to enforce animal-related laws and regulations, respond to animal emergencies, and educate the public about responsible pet ownership. They work under the supervision of experienced officers to gain hands-on experience with animal handling, investigation, and safety procedures. Their training prepares them for a full Animal Control Officer role, where they will protect both the community and animals from harm or neglect.

What are some common challenges faced by Animal Control Officer Trainees during their initial training period?

Animal Control Officer Trainees often encounter challenges such as becoming comfortable handling a wide variety of animals, some of which may be aggressive or frightened. Trainees must quickly learn local animal control laws, safe capture techniques, and proper use of equipment. Additionally, adapting to emotionally charged situations, like dealing with distressed pet owners or cases of animal cruelty, can be demanding. However, trainees are typically supported by experienced officers and receive on-the-job training to help them build confidence and competence in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Control Officer Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Control Officer Trainee, you need a basic understanding of animal behavior, safety procedures, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with animal restraint tools, incident reporting systems, and sometimes completion of relevant training or certification programs is beneficial. Strong communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills help in interacting with the public and handling stressful situations. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring public safety, humane animal treatment, and effective enforcement of animal regulations.
What cities are hiring for Animal Control Officer Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Animal Control Officer Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Control Officer jobs? The most popular types of Animal Control Officer jobs are:
What states have the most Animal Control Officer Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Control Officer Trainee jobs include:
Animal Control Officer Trainee jobs near you

Animal Control Officer Trainee

City of Rochester, New York

Rochester, NY

$47K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Animal Control Officer Trainee

Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/cityofrochester/jobs/newprint/5362832)

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Animal Control Officer Trainee

Salary

$47,710.00 Annually

Location

Rochester, NY

Job Type

Full-Time

Job Number

26DM374DRA12

Department

Department of Recreation & Human Services

Bureau

Commissioner' Office

Opening Date

06/02/2026

Closing Date

6/15/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

  • Description

  • Benefits

General Description

This is a trainee position designed to teach incumbents how to perform duties in retrieval, impounding, care of animals, community outreach, and the enforcement of laws and ordinances governing animals in the City of Rochester. Supervision is received from higher- level Animal Services personnel. Related duties are performed as required.

"CITY RESIDENCY IS PREFERRED"

Typical Work Activities

  • Responds to calls for service involving stray, injured or disobedient animals;

  • Seizes dogs and other animals and transports to animal shelter for care and treatment;

  • Assists the public with animal related concerns;

  • Issues citations and warnings to animal owners in violation of laws and ordinances;

  • Investigates complaints of animal related incidents and activity;

  • Refers suspected animal cruelty situations to appropriate personnel;

  • Shares information with pet owners to support the appropriate care and maintenance of their pets;

  • Patrols city neighborhoods to enforce animal laws and perform proactive outreach and pet owner assistance;

  • Attends training deemed necessary by management;

  • Writes routine reports and completes written and electronic forms, works within computer records management system;

  • Collaborates with sworn City personnel when requested;

  • Safely operates a vehicle to transport animals, pick up supplies, and conduct community outreach;

  • Maintains interior and exterior of facility for safety of employees and public as requested by supervisory personnel;

  • Assists with administering vaccinations and medications;

  • Assists with euthanasia of animals;

  • Testifies in court, as required.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or Equivalent, PLUS:

Three (3) months of work experience (full-time or part-time equivalent) which involved the care, treatment, handling, or transport of animals.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Possession of a valid New York State Class D driver’s license at time of appointment.

  • A valid Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator permit, issued by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, must be obtained within 6 months of appointment

  • All licenses and certificates must be maintained throughout employment with this job.

Must obtain NACA I Certification to be promoted to Animal Control Officer

This position is not eligible for benefits.

Employer

City of Rochester (NY)

Address

30 Church Street Room 103A Rochester, New York, 14614

Phone

585-428-7115

Website

http://www.cityofrochester.gov

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