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Animal Protection Officer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

City of Forney

Animal Control Officer

Forney, TX · On-site

$42K - $51K/yr

... protected species. Performs all other aspects of assignment including, chemical immobilization ... Texas DSHS Animal Control Officer Certification Texas DSHS Euthanasia Certification. Or an ...

City of Pearland, TX

Animal Control Officer

Pearland, TX · On-site

$21.83 - $25.58/hr

The City of Pearland Animal Services division has an opening for an Animal Control Officer ... We make it our mission to protect, shelter, and care for animals, present educational programs to ...

City of Grapevine

Animal Services Officer

Grapevine, TX

$20.88 - $30.28/hr

Job Summary Animal Services Officer New Hire Incentive: $600 Paid upon hire ($300 for part-time) ... JOB SUMMARY Protects and serves the community by enforcing City of Grapevine animal ordinances and ...

City of Grapevine, TX

Animal Services Officer

Grapevine, TX · On-site

$20.88 - $30.28/hr

JOB SUMMARY Protects and serves the community by enforcing City of Grapevine animal ordinances and ... Officer: * A high school diploma or equivalent plus two years of experience in animal control or ...

City of Pearland, TX

Animal Control Officer

Pearland, TX · On-site

$21.83 - $25.58/hr

The City of Pearland Animal Services division has an opening for an Animal Control Officer ... We make it our mission to protect, shelter, and care for animals, present educational programs to ...

City of Mesquite, TX

Animal Services Officer

Mesquite, TX · On-site

$21.04 - $24.54/hr

Basic Group Life Insurance protection is provided to eligible full-time employees in the amount of ... as a Basic Animal Control Officer? * Yes * No 05 Are you currently certified by the Texas ...

City of Seabrook

Animal Control Supervisor

Seabrook, TX · On-site

$28.72 - $34.14/hr

... protection, and animal welfare services. Reporting to the Police Lieutenant, the Animal Control Supervisor oversees Animal Control Officers, shelter personnel, and volunteers while ensuring ...

City of Seabrook

Animal Control Supervisor

Seabrook, TX · On-site

$28.72 - $34.14/hr

... protection, and animal welfare services.Reporting to the Police Lieutenant, the Animal Control Supervisor oversees Animal Control Officers, shelter personnel, and volunteers while ensuring compliance ...

Seabrook

Animal Control Supervisor

Seabrook, TX · On-site

... protection, and animal welfare services. Reporting to the Police Lieutenant, the Animal Control Supervisor oversees Animal Control Officers, shelter personnel, and volunteers while ensuring ...

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All JobsAnimal Protection Officer JobsAnimal Protection Officer Jobs in Texas

Animal Protection Officer information

See Texas salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do animal protection officer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal protection officer in Texas is $18.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 Texas?

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

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

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

What cities in Texas are hiring for Animal Protection Officer jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Animal Protection Officer job openings:

Animal Protection Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Protection Officer job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,447 per year, or $18 per hour.

Animal Control Officer

Galveston County Health District

Texas City, TX • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description


Galveston County Health District is seeking a dedicated Animal Control Officer   to patrol assigned areas, respond to citizen calls, capture and confine stray or dangerous animals, and enforce ordinances to protect the community and animals. This role is hands-on and essential for public safety and animal welfare.

Why Join Us?
We offer a career with fantastic benefits, including:

  • Amazing retirement package to secure your future
  • Affordable medical insurance to keep you and your family covered
  • Generous paid time off so you can recharge
  • FREE life insurance & long-term disability for peace of mind
  • FREE parking because the little things matter too!

What You'll Do:

  • Patrol assigned areas and respond to citizen calls regarding dogs, cats, and non-domestic animals as approved
  • Capture and confine diseased, injured, stray, or aggressive animals
  • Investigate complaints, cruelty cases, abandoned animals, and barking dog issues
  • Document incidents, bite investigations, citations, and maintain logs in Animal Services software
  • Operate and maintain animal control vehicles safely
  • Perform euthanasia of vicious, diseased, or unclaimed animals following policy and procedures
  • Follow up on quarantines, animal bites, and court cases
  • Maintain continuing education to retain Basic Animal Control Officer certification
  • Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor

What We're Looking For:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 1+ year experience in government animal control, animal shelters, or animal-oriented volunteer work preferred
  • Experience handling aggressive animals and using animal control equipment (catch poles, leashes, muzzles, traps, injections) required
  • Knowledge of safe driving, county geography, ordinances, and statutes related to animal control preferred
  • Euthanasia certification preferred (must obtain within 6 months if not already certified)
  • Valid Texas driver's license
  • Strong communication, customer service, and computer skills
  • Willingness to work evenings and weekends
  • Must pass background check, drug/alcohol screening, and DMV/MVR checks

Equivalent education and experience may be considered

Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
No phone calls please
ADA / EEO / DFWP

Our Mission: Protecting and Promoting the One Health of Galveston County

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Galveston County Health District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace. Applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status.