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Animal Rescue Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Seabrook

Animal Control Supervisor

Seabrook, TX · On-site

$28.72 - $34.14/hr

Supervise, mentor, schedule, train, and evaluate Animal Control Officers, shelter personnel ... Oversee animal intake, redemption, adoption, foster placement, rescue transfers, and euthanasia ...

Seabrook

Animal Control Supervisor

Seabrook, TX · On-site

Supervise, mentor, schedule, train, and evaluate Animal Control Officers, shelter personnel ... Oversee animal intake, redemption, adoption, foster placement, rescue transfers, and euthanasia ...

City of Seabrook

Animal Control Supervisor

Seabrook, TX · On-site

$28.72 - $34.14/hr

Supervise, mentor, schedule, train, and evaluate Animal Control Officers, shelter personnel ... Oversee animal intake, redemption, adoption, foster placement, rescue transfers, and euthanasia ...

County of Jefferson

Rescue Coordinator

Hillsboro, MO · On-site

Manage rescue partnerships and adoptions: Coordinate adoptions, match animals to suitable homes ... as an Animal Control Officer, or the ability to obtain within one (1) year. Licensing * Must ...

LTD Global

Animal Control Officer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, it provides a wide range of services, including animal adoption, wildlife rescue, veterinary care, humane education, and enforcement of animal-related laws. The ...

LTD Global

Animal Control Officer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, it provides a wide range of services, including animal adoption, wildlife rescue, veterinary care, humane education, and enforcement of animal-related laws. The ...

Mars

Party Animal

Atlanta, GA · On-site

... Animal to serve as the Chief Vibes ... Officer of every gathering. Responsibilities Keep energy high and conversations flowing Rescue ...

Oracle

Party Animal

Atlanta, GA

... Animal to serve as the Chief Vibes ... Officer of every gathering. Responsibilities Keep energy high and conversations flowing Rescue ...

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Animal Rescue Officer information

See salary details

$30K

$49.3K

$72K

How much do animal rescue officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal rescue officer in the United States is $49,264.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $55,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an animal rescue officer do?

An Animal Rescue Officer is responsible for responding to reports of animals in distress, rescuing injured or abandoned animals, and ensuring their safety and well-being. They often work with local authorities and animal shelters to provide emergency care, transport, and sometimes rehabilitation for animals in need. Their duties may also include investigating cases of animal cruelty or neglect, educating the public about animal welfare, and enforcing animal protection laws. Animal Rescue Officers play a crucial role in promoting humane treatment and safeguarding the welfare of animals in their communities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal rescue officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Rescue Officer, you need knowledge of animal behavior, basic veterinary care, and relevant animal welfare legislation, often supported by an animal care qualification or relevant experience. Familiarity with animal handling equipment, rescue vehicles, and incident reporting systems is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and emotional resilience are crucial soft skills for interacting with the public and managing distressing situations. These skills ensure the safe and effective rescue of animals, public safety, and compliance with legal and ethical standards.

What are some common challenges animal rescue officers face when responding to emergency calls?

Animal Rescue Officers often encounter situations that require quick decision-making and adaptability, such as animals in distress, unpredictable environments, and emotionally charged interactions with the public. They may need to safely handle frightened or injured animals and navigate challenging locations like busy roads or difficult terrain. Collaboration with local authorities, veterinarians, and shelter staff is crucial to ensure the best outcomes for both animals and people. These challenges make strong communication skills, resilience, and a compassionate approach essential in the role.

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

AspectAnimal Rescue OfficerAnimal Shelter Worker
CertificationsAnimal handling, CPR, first aid, sometimes law enforcement or animal control certificationsAnimal care, handling, basic first aid, shelter management certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork outdoors, rescue operations, animal control settingsIndoor shelter facilities, animal care areas
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, animal control departments, rescue organizationsAnimal shelters, rescue centers, non-profit organizations

Animal Rescue Officers primarily focus on rescuing animals from dangerous situations and enforcing animal control laws in the field. In contrast, Animal Shelter Workers typically care for animals within shelter facilities, assisting with daily operations and adoption processes. Both roles require animal handling skills, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

Is it hard to be an animal rescue officer?

Being an animal rescue officer can be physically and emotionally demanding, as it involves handling distressed or injured animals and working in unpredictable environments. The job often requires strong communication skills, physical stamina, and sometimes certifications in animal care or first aid, with irregular hours including nights and weekends.

What degree is needed to be an animal rescue officer?

Animal rescue officers typically do not require a specific degree but benefit from a background in animal science, biology, or related fields. Relevant skills include animal handling, first aid, and knowledge of local wildlife or domestic animals, and certifications such as animal rescue or first aid can enhance employability.

Who are the top companies hiring for Animal Rescue Officer jobs?

The top employers for Animal Rescue Officer jobs are:

What states have the most Animal Rescue Officer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Animal Rescue Officer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Animal Rescue Officer jobs?

For Animal Rescue Officer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Animal Rescue Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,264 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Animal Control Officer

Anchorage, AK • On-site

Denali Universal Services
Facilities Support Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Denali Universal Servicesexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Denali Universal Services rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 261 rated facilities management

Job description

Make a Difference Every Day
Denali Universal Services is seeking motivated and compassionate individuals to join our team as Animal Control Officers (ACO). In this role, you will help protect public safety, enforce animal control laws, and ensure the humane treatment of animals throughout the community.
This is a hands-on, field-based position that combines enforcement, animal care, and public interaction.
Schedule: Full-time 40-Hours/Week
Key Responsibilities
  • Patrol assigned areas to enforce animal licensing laws and humane care regulations
  • Capture and safely impound stray or dangerous animals
  • Investigate animal cruelty and ordinance violations
  • Issue citations and prepare cases for hearings or court testimony
  • Rescue trapped, injured, or at-risk animals
  • Maintain accurate reports, records, and documentation
  • Educate the public on responsible pet ownership, licensing, and animal welfare
  • Ensure humane treatment and proper care of all animals
  • Respond to calls for service and assist other agencies as needed
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Either:
    • Three (3) months of experience in code enforcement, law enforcement, or security
    • OR one (1) year of experience in dispatch, customer service, or animal-related work (e.g., veterinary or shelter)
    • Formal education in a related field may substitute for up to three (3) months of experience
  • Experience (or willingness to learn) animal handling and care
  • Valid Alaska driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to remain calm and professional under stress
  • Reliable access to a smartphone for scheduling, timekeeping, and communication
  • Ability to pass a background check, drug screening, and physical/fitness evaluation

Note: A resume and cover letter are required to complete your application.
Work Environment
  • Combination of indoor (kennel/office) and outdoor fieldwork
  • Exposure to weather conditions, noise, and odors
  • Interaction with animals that may be frightened, injured, or aggressive
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and perform physical tasks for extended periods
  • Frequent lifting, pushing, pulling, and handling of animals
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds regularly
Benefits
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Life insurance and short-term disability
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Apply Today!
Join a team dedicated to public safety, animal welfare, and community service.
Denali Universal Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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