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Animal Control Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

City of Vero Beach

ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER

Vero Beach, FL · On-site

$21.86 - $22.73/hr

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS Under general supervision, enforces City animal control ordinances, traps stray or nuisance animals and wildlife, issues warnings and citations; and performs related duties as ...

City of Vero Beach, FL

ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER

Vero Beach, FL · On-site

$21.86 - $22.73/hr

Knowledge of animal behavior and control techniques, including euthanasia. * Knowledge of effective customer service/public relations practices and procedures. * Knowledge of occupational hazards and ...

Collier County

Animal Control Officer I

Naples, FL · On-site

$22.18/hr

We're looking for a dedicated Animal Control Officer to join our team - someone who's not afraid to get their hands dirty (or fur-covered) to protect animals and people. This role isn't just about ...

Collier County, FL

Animal Control Officer I

Naples, FL · On-site

$22.18/hr

We're looking for a dedicated Animal Control Officer to join our team - someone who's not afraid to get their hands dirty (or fur-covered) to protect animals and people. This role isn't just about ...

Okaloosa County

Animal Control Officer II

Crestview, FL · On-site

$49K - $80K/yr

Requires a Florida Animal Control Association approved Animal Control Officer Certification as required by Florida law (F.S 828.27). Requires a Florida approved Euthanasia Technician certification ...

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Animal Control information

See Florida salary details

$15.7K

$30K

$45.2K

How much do animal control jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal control in Florida is $29,968.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25,400.00 and $34,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do I need to work for animal control?

To work in animal control, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and good communication skills. Some positions may require knowledge of animal behavior, basic first aid, or relevant certifications such as animal control or humane officer training. Physical fitness and the ability to handle animals safely are also important.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an animal control officer?

To thrive as an Animal Control Officer, you need knowledge of animal behavior, safety protocols, and relevant local regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma and specialized training or certification. Familiarity with animal handling equipment, incident reporting systems, and sometimes law enforcement databases is important. Strong communication, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills help when interacting with the public and de-escalating tense situations. These competencies ensure public safety, humane treatment of animals, and effective enforcement of animal-related laws.

What are common challenges faced by animal control officers in the field?

Animal control officers often encounter unpredictable situations, such as handling aggressive or frightened animals and addressing emotionally charged interactions with pet owners. They must also navigate varying local laws and regulations, ensuring proper documentation and evidence collection for potential legal cases. Additionally, officers may be required to work irregular hours, including nights and weekends, to respond to emergencies or public safety concerns. Building strong communication skills and resilience is essential to manage these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Animal Control vs Animal Shelter Worker?

AspectAnimal ControlAnimal Shelter Worker
CertificationsAnimal Control Officer Certification, sometimes requiredBasic animal handling and shelter management training
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, outdoor, community-basedIndoor shelter facilities, community interaction
Employer & IndustryMunicipal agencies, animal control departmentsAnimal shelters, rescue organizations
Job FocusEnforcing animal laws, capturing stray animalsCaring for animals, adoption services

Animal Control officers primarily enforce laws and capture stray or dangerous animals in the community, often working outdoors. Animal Shelter Workers focus on caring for animals within shelter facilities, preparing them for adoption. While both roles involve animal handling, their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

What does an animal control officer do?

Animal control jobs focus on ensuring public safety and protecting animals. In this role, you may patrol your community, investigate reports of hurt or dangerous animals, and rescue pets from mistreatment. Your responsibilities also include supporting the safety of personnel, writing reports, and issuing citations as necessary. In some positions, your duties may involve supporting public awareness efforts. For example, if people need to abandon a pet because they are no longer able to take care of it, animal control officers can help them find a shelter or an adopting family. Animal control officers work with a variety of animals, some of which are dangerous, so the ability to handle a wide range of creatures is essential.

Is it hard to get into animal control?

Getting into animal control can be competitive and often requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with physical fitness and good communication skills. Some positions may require relevant certifications or experience with animals, and background checks are typically part of the hiring process.

What is an animal control officer?

Animal control officers are professionals responsible for enforcing laws and regulations related to the care and control of animals in a community. Their duties include responding to reports of stray or dangerous animals, investigating cases of animal cruelty or neglect, capturing and relocating wildlife, and educating the public about responsible pet ownership. They also work closely with local shelters and may assist in the adoption process for stray or abandoned animals. Animal control officers play a vital role in protecting both animals and the public from harm.
More about Animal Control jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Control jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Animal Control jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Animal Control jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Animal Control job openings:
Animal Control jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Control job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $29,968 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER

City of Vero Beach

Vero Beach, FL • On-site

$21.86 - $22.73/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS Under general supervision, enforces City animal control ordinances, traps stray or nuisance animals and wildlife, issues warnings and citations; and performs related duties as assigned. PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES The following duties have been provided as examples of the essential types of work performed by positions within this job classification. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind work assignments as needed.

Patrols community to identify stray and/or nuisance animals, captures and transports animals to Humane Society. Euthanizes sick or seriously injured animals. Issues warnings and citations for code violations.

Meets with citizen groups to provide educational programs. KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS Knowledge of federal, state and local laws, regulations, rules and ordinances related to animal control operations. Knowledge of animal behavior and control techniques, including euthanasia.

Knowledge of effective customer service/public relations practices and procedures. Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety practices applicable to animal control operations. Ability to safely operate assigned vehicle, tools and equipment needed to perform work.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, coworkers and the general public. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. OTHER JOB CHARACTERISTICS: Exposure to potential physical harm, infectious disease, wild and domestic animals, and hazardous chemicals.

On-call twenty-four (24) hours for emergencies. TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT: City vehicle, radio, animal control tools (wand, darts, etc.). EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Graduation from High School or equivalent and one (1) year of experience working with animals and public contact; or an equivalent combination of training and experience

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS: Possession of a valid Florida Driver's License, Class D.

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