Animal Control Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Union
AFSCME - General
Pay Grade
Grade 4
Wage Scale
$20.55-$26.73/hr (2026 Wage Scale)
Description
General Summary:
The Animal Control Officer - enforces state and county laws and local animal control ordinances and oversees care of animals detained by the county. Assists the Animal Control Supervisor by managing the daily operations of the animal shelter and performing related duties, responds to animal and abuse complaints, and performs all of the duties of an Animal Control Officer on a regular and ongoing basis.
Work Objectives/Essential Functions:
• Responds to complaints regarding animals, ensuring a timely response and that all necessary follow-up is performed. Protects animal welfare and enforces applicable laws, investigating alleged acts of cruelty to animals. Safeguards the community by investigating complaints of animals alleged to be dangerous to persons or property, seizing and holding such animals.
• Ensure public safety by seizing domestic animals that are found running at large or are being harbored in violation of applicable laws. Assists citizens in adopting animals to promote responsible pet ownership and reduce shelter populations. Supports law enforcement and ensures the humane handling of animals in complex situations by assisting local police agencies regarding impounded vehicles containing dogs, as well as during evictions or gambling raids involving animals.
• Assists in the prosecution of suspected violations of state statute and local ordinances, including the requirement to appear in Court. Works with the Prosecutor's Office regarding the issuance of arrest warrants or show cause hearings related to abuse or other animal complaints. Ensures compliance with licensing laws and promotes responsible pet ownership by seeking out unlicensed dogs and assists in prosecuting their owners if necessary.
• Renders first aid to, and obtains medical attention for, injured animals and/or people, when necessary.
• Ensures the well-being and comfort of animals at the county shelter by overseeing and performing their care and feeding. Cleans and sanitizes the facility to maintain a safe and hygienic environment. Performs prescribed duties related to the upkeep of the animal care facility and the maintenance of animals. Destroys, in a humane manner, impounded animals that are not claimed within the time mandated by state law or county policy.
• Ensures accurate and compliant documentation, including the record keeping of licenses, registration of animals in the shelter, incident reporting, and other related activities. Supports transparency by maintaining clear and concise records, photographs, and documentation concerning all animal control actions and cases. Facilitate public access and regulatory enforcement by selling dog licenses and maintaining computerized records of licenses sold.
• Assures proper financial handling and accountability by accepting the receipt of payments for adoption, claims of animals, fines, and donations.
• Investigates animal bite cases involving human exposure to assess risk and ensure appropriate response. Prevents further harm by searching for any and all animals implicated in such incidents. Protects public health by investigating complaints about animals suspected of having rabies or other communicable diseases. Ensures compliance with regulatory standards by quarantining such animals in accordance with state law to contain potential outbreaks.
Position Requirements
Education: High school degree or equivalent plus additional specialized education (additional coursework in Law enforcement, code enforcement, animal science or related field).
Experience: Three (3) years of job-related experience.
Certifications: State certification for Animal Control Officer, Euthanasia by Injection certification, Field Sedation Certification.
Other requirements:

• Valid Driver's License
• Knowledge of job-related software and programs
• Must be able to be deputized by the Sheriff's Office

Full-Time/Part-Time
Full-Time
Shift
Various Shifts
Position
Animal Control Officer
Exempt/Non-Exempt
Non-Exempt
Open Date
8/6/2026
Location
St. Joseph County Animal Control
About the Organization
The mission of St. Joseph County Government is to provide efficient, dependable services while fostering public trust through collaboration, accountability, and long-term stewardship of county resources. By leading with integrity, St. Joseph County seeks to shape a future that preserves trust, strengthens responsibility, and inspires pride across generations.
St. Joseph County Government as stewards of people and resources promotes equal opportunity for all, and hereby encourages the talents, creativity and leadership of all County employees in striving for prompt, courteous, respectful and efficient delivery of services.
St. Joseph County provides an excellent benefit package. This includes health, dental, vision, life, and short- and long-term disability insurance. We also offer a very generous sick and vacation package as well as paid holidays for eligible positions. Pension plans and additional retirement options are also available to eligible employees.
EOE Statement
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
This position is currently accepting applications.