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Animal Control Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Animal Care Technician

Port Huron, MI

$14.75 - $20/hr

Work is performed under the supervision of the Director of the Animal Control or designee. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Shelter employees to include the Trustees assigned to the shelter. EXPERIENCE ...

Unit Clerk

Lapeer, MI · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

... animal control, etc.) 11. Orders patient nourishments as needed 12. Assists in data collection for monthly reports/assists with employee timekeeping 13. Enters test results into the patient chart ...

Unit Clerk

Lapeer, MI · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

... animal control, etc.) 11. Orders patient nourishments as needed 12. Assists in data collection for monthly reports/assists with employee timekeeping 13. Enters test results into the patient chart ...

Unit Clerk

Lapeer, MI · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

... animal control, etc.) 11. Orders patient nourishments as needed 12. Assists in data collection for monthly reports/assists with employee timekeeping 13. Enters test results into the patient chart ...

Account Clerk I

Port Huron, MI · On-site

$16.29 - $21.44/hr

Animal Control Opening Date: 01/12/2026 Closing Date: Continuous REQUISITION #: 26-013 HOURS: Casual OTHER INFORMATION: Open to St. Clair County Employees and the Public POSITION SUMMARY BLOODBORNE ...

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Animal Control information

See Michigan salary details

$18.3K

$35K

$52.7K

How much do animal control jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal control in Michigan is $34,953.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29,600.00 and $40,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Animal control officers typically do not earn $4,000 a week without a degree; however, high-paying roles in sales, real estate, or skilled trades like commercial diving or certain construction management positions can reach or exceed that income level without formal college degrees. These jobs often require specialized training, certifications, or experience and may involve irregular hours or physical work.

What do I need to work for animal control?

To work in animal control, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some roles require a valid driver's license. Physical fitness, good communication skills, and knowledge of animal behavior are important, and certifications in animal handling or safety may be preferred or required by some agencies.

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

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 some 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 is the highest paying job to work with animals?

The highest paying jobs in animal-related fields include veterinarian specialists, such as veterinary surgeons or anesthesiologists, who often earn six-figure salaries. These roles typically require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive experience, and may involve working in private practices, research, or specialized animal hospitals.

What Are Animal Control Jobs?

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.

What are animal control officers and what do they do?

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.

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

Animal welfare officers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring post-secondary education in animal science, biology, or related fields. Relevant skills include knowledge of animal behavior, good communication, and the ability to handle animals safely; certifications in animal first aid or handling may also be beneficial.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Control jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Animal Control jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Animal Control jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Animal Control job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Control job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,953 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Animal Control Officer

City of Sterling Heights

Sterling Heights, MI • On-site

$28.85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Description
The Sterling Heights Police Department is seeking a dedicated, passionate, and results-driven individual to be its next Animal Control Officer!
  • Pay starting at $28.8462/hr.
  • Pay increases every twelve (12) months and annually on July 1st!
  • Competitive 401(a) employer contribution
  • Medical with a VERY LOW premium share
  • Dental at NO COST
  • Vision at NO COST
  • $2,500 annual contribution into a Post Employment Health Plan for medical expenses in retirement
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid Time Off
  • Access to an on-site Employee Health & Wellness Center staffed with a physician and nurse for you and any dependents!
  • ...and so much more!

Position Summary
The Animal Control Officer is responsible for responding to citizen requests related to both domestic and non-domestic animals within the City. Their duties include enforcing City Code regulations on animal harboring and treatment, dog and cat ownership, dog licensing, ferrets, and taking enforcement actions as needed. The scope of work requires frequent interaction with residents and a strong commitment to customer service. The Animal Control Officer collaborates with various public, private, and non-profit agencies focused on animal welfare. Problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm in challenging situations are crucial for success. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are also essential for effectively carrying out the job duties. Dedication to the well-being of animals is of utmost importance in this role.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Registered Animal Control Officer with Michigan Department of Agriculture.
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Ability to lift weight of up to 50 lbs.
  • Valid unrestricted Michigan Driver's License.
  • Two years of experience in an animal welfare or control environment, including humane society, veterinary office or kennel highly preferred.
  • Ability to understand, interpret and communicate local ordinances.

*Applicants who do not meet the above may be considered for a temporary "Animal Control Trainee" classification while obtaining the necessary state registration.
For the full job description, click HERE
Check out the recruitment brochure for further information and details via the following link: Animal Control Officer Recruitment Brochure
To view the Summary of Compensation and Benefits document, please click the following link: Summary of Compensation and Benefits - Animal Control Officer
Applications must be submitted by Saturday, August 15, 2026.
EOE/M/F/D