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Animal Control Officer Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

PETA

Animal Care Officer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$43K - $55K/yr

... animal control agencies in situations requiring legal intervention, and follow up to ensure that action is taken Conduct investigations involving neglected or abused animals Perform emergency first ...

FSAP and PETA

Animal Care Officer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$43K - $55K/yr

... with animal control agencies in situations requiring legal intervention, and follow up to ensure that action is taken • Conduct investigations involving neglected or abused animals • Perform ...

Stafford County

Animal Caretaker

Stafford, VA · On-site

$19.25 - $33.69/hr

... Animal Control Officers Inputs and retrieves information on the computer such as records on dog licenses, citizen complaints, and shelter information Performs related tasks of a similar nature or ...

City of Lynchburg

Police Officer 2026

Lynchburg, VA

$50K/yr

Description Police Officers perform responsible protective service work involving a variety of ... Responds to animal control calls when animal warden is unavailable Assists at special events such ...

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Animal Control Officer Trainee information

How hard is it to get into animal control officer trainee?

Getting into an animal control officer trainee position typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and sometimes a background check. Relevant skills include good communication, physical fitness, and knowledge of animal handling; some agencies may also require or prefer certification in animal control or related fields. Competition can vary based on location and available openings, but meeting basic requirements is usually straightforward for qualified candidates.

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 is an animal control officer trainee?

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 common challenges faced by animal control officer trainees during training?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be an animal control officer trainee?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Animal Control Officer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Animal Control Officer jobs in Virginia are:

Animal Control Officer Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Control Officer Trainee job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution.

Animal Control Officer

Isle of Wight County

Isle Of Wight, VA

$42K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description The Isle of Wight County Sheriff's Office is currently taking applications for the position of Animal Control Officer. Application, Background Investigative Form, and Authorization for Release of Information Form may be picked up Monday - Friday from 9:00am - 5:00pm at the Isle of Wight County Sheriff's Office, 17110 Monument Circle, Isle of Wight, VA 23397, or can be downloaded from www.isleofwightsheriffsoffice.com under the "Employment" tab. Position is open until filled at the Isle of Wight County Sheriff's Office

Required Qualifications Applicants must be of good character, possess a High School Diploma and a valid Virginia driver's license. Candidates must have no felony or misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude. Requires a valid driver's license, state animal control, and euthanization certifications.

Selected individuals will be required to undergo an oral interview and a comprehensive background investigation.

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