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Animal Forensics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ASPCA

Forensic Veterinarian

New York, NY

While there are no direct animal care responsibilities, the Forensic Veterinarian will work closely with animal care teams to monitor the medical progress of case animals and the collection of ...

ASPCA

Forensic Veterinarian

New York, NY

While there are no direct animal care responsibilities, the Forensic Veterinarian will work closely with animal care teams to monitor the medical progress of case animals and the collection of ...

ASPCA

Forensic Veterinarian

Manhattan, NY

While there are no direct animal care responsibilities, the Forensic Veterinarian will work closely with animal care teams to monitor the medical progress of case animals and the collection of ...

ASPCA

Forensic Veterinarian

Manhattan, NY

While there are no direct animal care responsibilities, the Forensic Veterinarian will work closely with animal care teams to monitor the medical progress of case animals and the collection of ...

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How much do animal forensics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal forensics in the United States is $71,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,500.00 and $76,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animal forensics job?

An Animal Forensics job involves investigating cases of animal cruelty, neglect, or illegal wildlife activities by analyzing physical evidence. Professionals in this field use forensic techniques such as DNA analysis, toxicology, and pathology to determine causes of injury or death in animals. They may work with law enforcement, veterinarians, and legal teams to support criminal cases. Animal forensic scientists can be employed by government agencies, animal welfare organizations, or forensic laboratories. Their work helps ensure justice for animals and strengthens the enforcement of animal protection laws.

What are some typical challenges faced in animal forensics?

One of the main challenges in Animal Forensics is the need to accurately collect and analyze evidence under often time-sensitive or emotionally charged circumstances. Professionals in this role frequently work with law enforcement, veterinarians, and sometimes in court settings, requiring clear documentation and careful handling of sensitive cases. Balancing scientific rigor with compassion for animals and their owners is key, as is maintaining objectivity during investigations that may involve difficult scenarios. Overcoming these challenges is crucial for ensuring justice and the welfare of animals, while contributing valuable expertise to multidisciplinary teams.

How to get into animal forensics?

To pursue a career in animal forensics, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, forensic science, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in forensic analysis and animal identification, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects in this specialized field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in animal forensics?

To thrive in Animal Forensics, you need a background in veterinary science, animal biology, or forensic science, often with an advanced degree or specialized training in forensic techniques. Familiarity with laboratory analysis equipment, evidence-handling protocols, and specialized software for data documentation is common in this field. Close attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong communication skills will help you excel when collaborating with legal, veterinary, and law enforcement teams. These skills are vital for gathering reliable evidence, supporting legal investigations, and ensuring the ethical treatment of animals.

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Animal Forensics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Forensics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,735 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Temporary, Relief Forensic Veterinarian

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

New York, NY

$135/hr

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Overview

At the forefront of Forensic Veterinary Medicine, the Forensic Sciences department advances the ASPCA's mission by transforming veterinary expertise and forensic science into meaningful justice for animals. Through direct casework, research, training, and outreach, the team not only supports the investigation and prosecution of cruelty cases, but also helps shape the future of veterinary forensic medicine and animal welfare.

The Forensic Sciences department is comprised of two teams based in New York City (NYC), which primarily supports New York City Police Department (NYPD) and District Attorney's Offices with criminal cases, and Gainesville Florida, which primarily supports the ASPCA's national criminal case response. Together, these teams advance the field of veterinary forensic science and the dissemination of basic forensic knowledge and tools to a broader audience of practicing veterinarians.


Who We Are

The NYC ASPCA Forensic Sciences team applies veterinary and forensic expertise to animal cruelty cases, supporting law enforcement, prosecutors, the veterinary community, and animal victims. Since 2014, in partnership with the NYPD, the NYC ASPCA Forensic Sciences team has provided forensic evaluations and expert consultation for suspected animal cruelty cases that are investigated by the NYPD. The team also contributes to research, training, the continued advancement of veterinary forensic science, and the dissemination of basic forensic knowledge and tools to veterinary students and a broader audience of practicing veterinarians.

What You'll Do

Under the guidance of the Vice President of Forensic Sciences and the Senior Director of Forensic Sciences and alongside three additional forensic veterinarians, the Temporary Forensic Veterinarian provides forensic support on animal cruelty cases to the NYPD, the NYC District Attorney's Offices, other law enforcement agencies, and the veterinary community (internal and external). While there are no direct animal care responsibilities, the Forensic Veterinarian will work closely with animal care teams to monitor the medical progress of case animals and the collection of necessary case evidence.

This position has no direct reports.

Where and When You'll Work

  • This position is an on-site role and reports to the ASPCA location at 424 E. 92nd St., New York, NY
  • This Temporary, Relief DVM will provide regular coverage of approximately 3 days weekly, likely including 1 weekend day, fromSeptember through February
  • Desired days are Sunday-Tuesday (may be flexible)
  • Hours are 10am-6pm ET

Temporary Role Details:

  • This is a temporary, contingent position and the person hired will be employed through a third-party staffing agency.
  • The target rate for this temporary role is $135 per hour on weekdays and $150 per hour on weekends/holidays. This may be modified in the future.

Responsibilities

  • Provide forensic veterinary case support for New York City animal cruelty and fighting investigations and prosecutions, including clinical forensic exams, necropsies, veterinary statements, medical record and/or video reviews, , and expert witness testimony grand jury proceedings, hearings, and trials.
  • Collaborate with ASPCA departments and external partners to support case management and case flow.
  • Assist internal and local veterinarians in the recognition and reporting of suspect animal cruelty cases.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including clear and concise documentation.
  • Organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • Interest in or experience with animal cruelty cases, including neglect, abuse, animal fighting, and hoarding.
  • Experience working with law enforcement, regulatory agencies, or legal teams is a plus.

Language

  • English (required)

Education and Work Experience

  • DVM or VMD (required)
  • 3 +years practice in veterinary medicine required
  • Experience in animal cruelty investigations is a plus, including neglect, abuse, animal fighting and animal hoarding

Apply