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Animal Control Officer Trainee Jobs in Riverside, CA

... scene control and investigation activities. Patrols a designated area of the City to ensure ... Responds to general public service and crime victim calls, traffic hazards, stray animal reports ...

Pre-Service Police Officer

Rialto, CA · On-site

$87K - $117K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

... scene control and investigation activities. * Patrols a designated area of the City to ensure ... Responds to general public service and crime victim calls, traffic hazards, stray animal reports ...

Police Officer Lateral

Rialto, CA · On-site

$7.2K - $9.7K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... animal reports and related misdemeanors and felony incidents; deploys police dog to protect self ... Police methods and procedures including patrol, crime prevention, traffic control and investigation.

... animal reports and related misdemeanors and felony incidents; deploys police dog to protect self ... Police methods and procedures including patrol, crime prevention, traffic control and investigation.

Dispatches, as necessary, police and animal control units in response to calls for service or requests from officers in the field; uses law enforcement terminology and cites Code sections by number ...

Police Dispatcher

Glendora, CA · On-site

$57K - $69K/yr

... animal control units in response to calls for service or requests from officers in the field; uses law enforcement terminology and cites Code sections by number; calls public and private agencies ...

Part-time Community Service Officer

Colton, CA · On-site

$4.3K - $5.7K/mo

... control; and perform other related duties as assigned. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: The ... May perform animal service duties. Assist police officers with non-emergency duties; complete ...

Part-time Community Service Officer

Colton, CA · On-site

$27.44 - $33.35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

... control; and perform other related duties as assigned. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: The ... May perform animal service duties. * Assist police officers with non-emergency duties; complete ...

Showing results 41-60

Animal Control Officer Trainee information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$29.7K

$50K

$73.6K

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal control officer trainee in Riverside, CA is $49,986.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,200.00 and $56,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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 cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Animal Control Officer Trainee jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Animal Control Officer Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal Control Officer Trainee job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,986 per year, or $24 per hour.

$87K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Classification Definition This recruitment is continuous and may close without further notice. The City of Rialto is seeking to fill a Police Officer (Pre-Service) vacancy within the Police Department. The Rialto Police Department is dedicated to selecting those individuals who meet the highest of professional standards with a commitment to serving all members of their community with sensitivity, empathy, and impartiality.

Under direct supervision, a Police Officer will perform a variety of peace officer duties in the enforcement of laws, the protection of persons and property, crime prevention and suppression; perform assignments in specialized areas including; motorcycle patrol, K-9 programs, street crime prevention, gang suppression, community oriented policing, and related program areas. Additionally, a Police Officer will perform a variety of duties relative to an assigned area responsibility. The ideal candidate exhibits a strong leadership, innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to service.

The City is looking for individuals willing to join a culture that embraces industry best practices and innovation through collaboration with internal and external stakeholders. Under direct supervision, a Police Officer will perform a variety of peace officer duties in the enforcement of laws, the protection of persons and property, crime prevention and suppression; perform assignments in specialized areas including; motorcycle patrol, K-9 programs, street crime prevention, gang suppression, community oriented policing, and related program areas. Additionally, a Police Officer will perform a variety of duties relative to an assigned area responsibility.

The ideal candidate exhibits a strong leadership, innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to service. The City is looking for individuals willing to join a culture that embraces industry best practices and innovation through collaboration with internal and external stakeholders. The Police Officer is the journey level class in the Police Officer series in which incumbents are expected to independently perform the full scope of assigned law enforcement duties and responsibilities under general supervision.

Incumbents may receive special assignments taskforces. This classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Police Corporal in that the latter is responsible for the performance of the more complex and difficult tasks and for providing field supervision of assigned personnel and activities. Essential Duties and Responsiblities Essential Duties and Responsibilities: ESSENTIAL AND MARGINAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS-Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Performs a variety of peace officer duties in the enforcement of laws, the protection of persons and property, and crime prevention and suppression; performs assignments in specialized areas including motorcycle patrol, K-9 program, street crime prevention, gang suppression, community oriented police and related program areas.

Enforces state, local and federal laws and ordinances; issues verbal warnings and citations; pursues and apprehends suspects; coordinates crime scene control and investigation activities. Patrols a designated area of the City to ensure security of life and property, observe situations and deter or prevent the commission of crimes; enforce traffic and other laws and ordinances. Responds to general public service and crime victim calls, traffic hazards, stray animal reports and related misdemeanors and felony incidents; deploys police dog to protect self and others as assigned.

Plans, executes, writes and serves search warrants; search suspects, vehicles, residences and buildings for evidence, contraband, and lost or missing people. Serves arrest warrants; makes arrests for crimes committed under penal and institute codes; performs booking procedures for new prisoners; contacts and interviews suspects and witnesses to gain additional information. Processes and stores evidence and property found at various crime scenes; maintains records and enters data into computer as necessary.

Investigates traffic accidents and incidents; responds to calls; requests emergency services as required; provides traffic and crowd control. Prepares a variety of reports and documents on assigned cases; prepares and maintains files; ensures documentation of all case activities. Reviews and investigates reports related to vehicle theft/accidents and cellular phone fraud; identifies locations of illicit drug use and sales.

Provides assistance in a variety of investigations relative to assigned area of responsibility including narcotics, crime suppression and theft; gathers information from witnesses and informants; interviews suspects; prepares reports and follows up on investigations. Testifies in court and associated hearings; prepares and processes documents and reports as assigned. Maintains and operates specialized police surveillance equipment including transmitters, radios and cameras.

Perform related duties and responsibilities as required; within the scope of this classification. Knowledge of: Basic law enforcement terminology and concepts; techniques for dealing with people of all socio-economic levels under hostile and emergency situations; safety practices and precautions pertaining to the work inclusive of: Operations, services and activities of a law enforcement program. Law enforcement terminology and concepts.

Police methods and procedures including patrol, crime prevention, traffic control and investigation. Methods and techniques of investigating criminal activity. Problem solving methods and techniques.

Rules of evidence pertaining to search and seizure, and preservation. Laws governing the rights of citizens including apprehension, arrest and custody procedures. Methods and techniques of communicating and implementing crime prevention programs.

Use of firearms and other modern police equipment. Operational characteristics of police equipment and tools. Pertinent Federal, State and local laws, codes and regulations.

Ability to: Observe and accurately recall places, names, descriptive characteristics and facts of incidents; remain calm and take appropriate action in tense situations; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; read, interpret and apply complex laws, procedures and policies; make rapid, sound independent judgments within legal and procedural guidelines; prepare clear and concise reports, records and other written materials; understand and follow oral and written directions; learn the principles, practices, procedures, laws and ordinances, terminology and operation of equipment used in law enforcement and crime prevention and investigation. Perform a wide range of law enforcement assignments. Use and care for firearms and other police equipment.

Prepare clear and concise reports on criminal activities. Interpret and enforce City and Sate laws, codes and ordinances. Work independently in the absence of supervision.

Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Understand and follow oral and written instructions. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities. Minimum Qualifications EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be: Graduation from High School or equivalent and successful completion of a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified Police Academy.

Additional Information: Education, Training, and Experience: Equivalent to the completion of the 12th grade; some college level training in police science, criminal justice or a related field is desirable. Must possess and maintain a valid California driver's license; must possess satisfactory hearing capabilities and visual acuity and be able to meet physical, psychological and background standards; must be willing to work evening, night, weekend and holiday shifts; must be able to maintain firearms qualification. Must be a recent graduate of a California Commission on P.O.S.T

Academy (within the most recent 6 months);or Previously employed as a Police Officer within the State of California within three (3) years of application, or Be currently employed as an out-of-state Officer with a valid POST waiver, or Currently employed as a Peace Officer within the State of California, but NOT possessing a California Basic POST Certification. LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS Possession of a valid California POST Basic Certificate or a valid California POST Basic Course Waiver at time of application. Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Class C Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Must currently be employed as a sworn Peace Officer, in good standing. Must be at least 21 years of age. Must successfully complete a comprehensive POST background investigation, physical examination and psychological evaluation.

Must possess U.S. Citizenship at time of appointment. Background Check Process: All appointments to this position are subject to the successful completion of an in-depth background investigation conducted by the Rialto Police Department as well as a physical examination including a drug screening

The background investigation is a rigorous process. A typical background investigation includes but is not limited to: background interviews with individuals designated by the Rialto Police Department (this may include current and former co-workers, friends, relatives, neighbors, or any other relevant individual), criminal background check, credit check, polygraph examination, and physiological evaluation. Candidates may be disqualified from further consideration during the background investigation for a variety of reasons including if they have: an excessive number of traffic citations and/or collisions; arrests and/or convictions; a history of illegal substance abuse; poor credit history (factors include bankruptcy, foreclosures, liens and repossessions); or thefts from a previous employer.

For clarification of any of the above disqualifying reasons, please call the Police Department Personnel and Training Unit at (909) 421-4926. The following list describes some areas that are covered in the background investigation: Your relatives, references, and acquaintances are asked to comment on your suitability for this position. The information supplied regarding your educational history is examined and verified.

You must list a history of your residences. Your work history and experience are examined with regard to your dependability, relationships with fellow workers, trustworthiness, and general job performance. Military service records are subject to verification.

The background investigation considers your management of personal finances (however, being in debt does not automatically disqualify you). Your criminal, driving, and insurance records are evaluated. Note: All applications are active and on file for consideration for 6 months from the recruitment closing date.

After 6 months, all applications become invalid. Interested applicants must reapply to be considered for any current recruitments. Supplemental Information Initial Application Procedure: A City application form and supplemental questionnaire (if applicable) MUST be submitted and received by the closing date.

Please apply online at www.yourrialto.com. All other employment inquiries can be directed to The City of Rialto, Human Resources Department. 246 S

Willow, Rialto, CA 92376. Telephone: (909) 820-2540. Veterans Preference Credit Eligibility: Veterans of the armed forces, who have been discharged or released from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable (Government Code: 18540.4), shall receive an additional five (5) points to their final examination score for ranking purposes only

This preference will apply only to the first appointment to any regular full-time City appointment. A copy of your valid DD214 must be submitted on or before the final filing date in order to be eligible for Veterans Preference Credit. For more information, please see the City's Veteran's Preference Policy.

E-Verify: The City of Rialto is an E-Verify employer. E-Verify is an internet based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA) that allows participating employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of newly hired employees in the United States.