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Animal Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Z&A Management

Senior Animal Keeper

Folsom, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Maintain thorough documentation for inspections, audits, and internal reporting. * Participate in weekly wellness and operational meetings to discuss animal health, environmental metrics, and ...

pelican

Inspector I

Torrance, CA

Inspector I Location: Torrance, CA Company: Pelican Who We Are At Pelican, we engineer products ... Great Benefits - several options including Pet insurance for our animal lovers. * Health Savings ...

pelican

Inspector I

Torrance, CA

Inspector I Location: Torrance, CA Company: Pelican Who We Are At Pelican, we engineer products ... Great Benefits - several options including Pet insurance for our animal lovers. * Health Savings ...

pelican

Inspector I

Torrance, CA

Inspector I Location: Torrance, CA Company: Pelican Who We Are At Pelican, we engineer products ... Great Benefits - several options including Pet insurance for our animal lovers. * Health Savings ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAnimal Inspector JobsAnimal Inspector Jobs in California

Animal Inspector information

See California salary details

$24.2K

$54.2K

$97.7K

How much do animal inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal inspector in California is $54,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $62,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an animal inspector do?

Animal Inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring the health, welfare, and humane treatment of animals in various settings such as farms, animal shelters, and zoos. They inspect facilities to check that animals are being properly cared for and that all local, state, and federal regulations are being followed. Their duties may include examining animals for signs of illness or mistreatment, investigating complaints of abuse, and enforcing animal welfare laws. Animal Inspectors often work closely with veterinarians, law enforcement, and animal welfare organizations to protect animals and promote public health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal inspector?

To thrive as an Animal Inspector, you need a background in animal science or a related field, knowledge of animal health regulations, and often state certification or licensure. Familiarity with inspection tools, animal health databases, and reporting systems is typically required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure accurate assessments, regulatory compliance, and the protection of animal welfare and public health.

What are some common challenges faced by animal inspectors when conducting field inspections?

Animal Inspectors often encounter challenges such as uncooperative owners, animals in distress, and navigating various environments that may be hazardous or unsanitary. Balancing regulatory enforcement with educational outreach requires strong communication and diplomacy skills. Additionally, inspectors must stay updated on animal welfare laws and manage detailed documentation, making attention to detail and adaptability essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Animal Inspector vs Animal Control Officer?

AspectAnimal InspectorAnimal Control Officer
Required CredentialsOften requires state or local certification, knowledge of animal health and regulationsTypically requires certification, training in animal handling and local laws
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, inspection sites, animal facilitiesFieldwork, animal shelters, community outreach
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, health departmentsMunicipalities, animal shelters, law enforcement
Common Search & ComparisonAnimal Inspector vs Animal Control Officer

Animal Inspectors and Animal Control Officers both work in government settings related to animal welfare. While Animal Inspectors focus on health inspections, compliance, and regulations, Animal Control Officers handle live animal control, rescue, and community education. Both roles require certification and involve working with animals, but their daily tasks and work environments differ.

How to become an animal inspector?

To become an animal inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with knowledge of animal care and welfare. Many positions require relevant experience or education in veterinary science, biology, or animal science, and some jurisdictions may require certification or licensing. Strong observational skills and familiarity with animal handling and health regulations are also important.

What are popular job titles related to Animal Inspector jobs in California?

For Animal Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Inspector jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Inspector jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Animal Inspector jobs?

Cities in California with the most Animal Inspector job openings:

Animal Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,220 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Animal Care & Vivarium Operations Technician (Hands-On / Physical Role)

Biolegacy Research

San Diego, CA • On-site

$24 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform daily animal care, including providing food, water, and monitoring health.

  • Conduct cage sanitation, cleaning, and maintain organized facility spaces.

  • Assist with facility support tasks such as moving supplies, preparing housing areas, and maintaining records.

Job description

Animal Care & Vivarium Operations Technician (Hands-On / Physical Role)

Type: Full-Time

Location: Sorrento Valley, San Diego, CA

Work Type: Onsite

Pay Range: $23.00 – $24.00 per hour

Classification: Non-Exempt

Department: Vivarium Operations

About BioLegacy

BioLegacy is the U.S. division of PharmaLegacy, a global preclinical contract research organization (CRO) supporting the biopharmaceutical industry with high-quality, regulated in vivo research services. Our San Diego facility operates under strict standards to ensure animal welfare, safety, and operational excellence.

Position Overview

The Animal Care & Vivarium Operations Technician is a hands-on, physically active role responsible for the daily care of research animals and upkeep of vivarium facilities.

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working on their feet, performing physical tasks, and being part of a fast-paced operational team. Responsibilities include animal care, cage sanitation, and maintaining clean and organized environments in a regulated setting.

This is not a desk-based or lab bench role—this role involves routine lifting, cleaning, and active movement throughout the day.

Key ResponsibilitiesAnimal Care & Handling

Provide food, water, and daily care to animals according to established schedules

Observe animals for general health and report concerns

Safely transfer animals between cages and housing areas

Vivarium Operations & Sanitation

Perform frequent cage changes and cleaning of animal housing areas

Wash, sanitize, and prepare cages, racks, and equipment

Maintain clean, organized, and compliant facility spaces

Handle waste disposal following safety procedures

Facility Support & Logistics

Prepare rooms and housing areas for incoming animals

Move supplies, cages, and materials throughout the facility

Monitor inventory (bedding, feed, supplies) and restock as needed

Documentation & Compliance

Complete daily logs and records accurately

Follow SOPs and safety procedures consistently

Support inspections and audits as needed

Teamwork

Work as part of a high-energy, team-oriented operations group

Participate in rotating weekend and holiday schedules

Physical & Work Requirements (Important)

Ability to lift, carry, and move up to 50 lbs regularly

Comfortable with repetitive physical tasks (lifting, bending, cleaning)

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift

Comfortable working in an environment with odors, animal dander, and cleaning agents

Willingness to wear required PPE at all times

Qualifications

Required

High school diploma or GED

Strong reliability and work ethic

Ability to follow detailed procedures and work in a structured environment

Basic computer skillsPreferred (but not required)

Experience in animal care, warehouse, facilities, janitorial, agriculture, or similar hands-on roles

Experience working in physically demanding jobs

Familiarity with SOP-driven or regulated environments

Work Environment

This role operates in a controlled vivarium environment with exposure to animals, cleaning chemicals, and biohazard materials. The position involves physical, repetitive work in a structured and team-driven setting.

Equal Opportunity Employer

BioLegacy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building an inclusive workplace and consider all qualified applicants without regard to legally protected characteristics.