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Animal Protection Officer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Putnam County, FL BOCC

Animal Control Officer

Palatka, FL · On-site

$41K - $46K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... is protected from diseased, problem and vicious stray animals, and that animals are humanely ... Certified Animal Control Officer, or the ability to achieve Animal Control Officer certification ...

New

Broward County, FL

Animal Control Officer

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$2.0K/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must obtain the Animal Care Officer Certification within six (6) months of hire. Must obtain the ... protect the community and to protect animals from injury/death. Apprehends and confines stray ...

Putnam County, FL BOCC

Animal Control Officer

Palatka, FL · On-site

$41K - $46K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... is protected from diseased, problem and vicious stray animals, and that animals are humanely ... Certified Animal Control Officer, or the ability to achieve Animal Control Officer certification ...

Broward County, FL

Animal Control Officer

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$21.90 - $34.96/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must obtain the Animal Care Officer Certification within six (6) months of hire. Must obtain the ... protect the community and to protect animals from injury/death. Apprehends and confines stray ...

GovernmentJobs.com

Animal Control Officer I

Naples, FL · On-site

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 ...

New

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 ...

Okaloosa County

Animal Control Officer II

Crestview, FL

$49K - $80K/yr

GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB Protects the safety and rights of the public and the welfare of animals ... Requires a Florida Animal Control Association approved Animal Control Officer Certification as ...

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 ...

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 ...

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All JobsAnimal Protection Officer JobsAnimal Protection Officer Jobs in Florida

Animal Protection Officer information

See Florida salary details

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$14

$19

How much do animal protection officer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal protection officer in Florida is $14.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $15.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Animal Protection Officer, you need knowledge of animal welfare laws, animal handling skills, and a background in animal science or law enforcement, often supported by relevant certifications or training. Familiarity with investigative procedures, evidence documentation tools, and animal care equipment is typically required. Strong communication, conflict resolution, and empathy are essential soft skills for interacting with the public and handling sensitive situations. These skills ensure effective enforcement of animal protection laws, promote animal welfare, and facilitate positive outcomes in challenging and sometimes confrontational environments.

What are some typical challenges an animal protection officer faces in the field, and how are they addressed?

Animal Protection Officers often encounter emotionally charged situations, such as cases of neglect or abuse, which can be both physically and mentally demanding. They must balance enforcing laws with educating pet owners and the public, sometimes facing resistance or hostility. Officers typically rely on thorough training, clear communication, and collaboration with local law enforcement and animal welfare organizations to resolve these challenges effectively. Support from a dedicated team and ongoing professional development also help officers manage the emotional toll and ensure the best outcomes for animals.

Do you need a degree to be an animal protection officer?

A degree is not always required to become an animal protection officer, but many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience or training in animal care, law enforcement, or related fields. Certifications in animal handling or law enforcement can enhance job prospects. Requirements vary by jurisdiction and organization.

What is an animal protection officer?

Animal Protection Officers are professionals responsible for enforcing laws related to the welfare and protection of animals. They investigate reports of animal cruelty, neglect, or abuse, and have the authority to rescue animals from dangerous situations. These officers may also educate the public about proper animal care, work with law enforcement, and assist in prosecuting offenders. Their goal is to ensure the humane treatment and safety of animals within their jurisdiction.

What is the difference between Animal Protection Officer vs Animal Shelter Worker?

AspectAnimal Protection OfficerAnimal Shelter Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in animal handling and law enforcementHigh school diploma or equivalent, basic animal care training
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, enforcement, investigations, often outdoors or in communitiesAnimal shelters, kennels, indoor facilities, direct animal care
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, law enforcement, animal controlAnimal shelters, rescue organizations, non-profits
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for enforcement and legal responsibilitiesCompared for direct animal care and shelter management

Animal Protection Officers focus on enforcing animal laws, investigating cruelty cases, and working in the field. Animal Shelter Workers primarily care for animals in shelters, managing daily operations. While both roles involve animal welfare, their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Animal Protection Officer jobs in Florida?

For Animal Protection Officer jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Protection Officer jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Protection Officer jobs in Florida are:

Animal Protection Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Protection Officer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,036 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

Animal Control Officer (Provisional)

Palm Beach County, FL

West Palm Beach, FL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Please review, complete, and upload the Willingness-to-Work Acknowledgment , which outlines the conditions and requirements of the job
Performs specialized field work patrolling the County, enforcing County animal ordinances and State statutes. Responds to complaints concerning animals running at large, cruelty to animals, injured animals, and animals creating a nuisance; conducts investigations and prepares related reports. Assists co-workers with handling and catching aggressive, possibly dangerous, injured and/or rabid animals in the field or at the shelter; performs animal euthanasia.
QUALIFICATIONS
This position requires qualified applicants to possess one of the following:
  • Associate's Degree or minimum of 60-semester hours in Animal/Health Science,
OR
  • Graduation from high school or an equivalent recognized certification; minimum of three (3) years of experience working with animals.
NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT S
The selected candidate for this position:
  • Must obtain and maintain Florida Animal Protection and Advocacy Association (FAPAA) Animal Control Officer and Euthanasia Technician Certifications within six (6) months of hire.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Preferred qualifications include:
  • Two (2) or more years of experience working with animals and/or as an Animal Control Officer (must specify on application) ,
  • Current valid FACA Animal Control Officer Certification (must specify on application),
  • Euthanasia Technician Certification (must specify on application), and
  • Chemical Capture/Immobilization Certification (must specify on application).

NOTE : It is not necessary to submit another application for this position if you applied 3/10/26 - 3/24/26.

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