CA · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
CA · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
TX · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
TX · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
NM · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
NM · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
TX · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
TX · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
NM · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
NM · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
NM · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
NM · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
AZ · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
AZ · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
NM · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
NM · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
TX · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
TX · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
TX · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
TX · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
TX · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
TX · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
AZ · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
AZ · On-site
$50K/yr
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted ... animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd ...
Animal Welfare Inspector information
See salary details
$8.65 - $11.30
5% of jobs
$11.30 - $13.94
18% of jobs
$14.21 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.94 - $16.59
16% of jobs
The median wage is $18.48 / hr.
$16.59 - $19.23
15% of jobs
$19.23 - $21.88
11% of jobs
$24.16 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$21.88 - $24.52
12% of jobs
$24.52 - $27.16
11% of jobs
$27.16 - $29.81
4% of jobs
$29.81 - $32.45
3% of jobs
$32.45 - $35.10
3% of jobs
$35.10 - $37.74
2% of jobs
$8
$21
$37
How much do animal welfare inspector jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal welfare inspector in the United States is $21.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is an animal welfare inspector?
Animal welfare inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring that animals are treated humanely and in accordance with animal welfare laws. They inspect facilities such as farms, pet shops, animal shelters, and laboratories to check on the living conditions, health, and treatment of animals. Their duties include investigating complaints of animal cruelty or neglect, educating animal owners about proper care, and taking enforcement action when necessary. Animal welfare inspectors play a crucial role in protecting animals and promoting responsible animal husbandry.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal welfare inspector, and why are they important?
To thrive as an Animal Welfare Inspector, you need a solid understanding of animal care standards, relevant legislation, and investigative techniques, often supported by a degree in animal science or a related field. Familiarity with case management software, evidence collection tools, and sometimes certification in animal handling or law enforcement procedures is common. Strong observation, communication, and conflict resolution skills help inspectors build trust with the public and handle sensitive situations effectively. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensuring animal welfare, enforcing regulations, and promoting responsible animal ownership.
What are some common challenges faced by animal welfare inspectors during routine inspections?
Animal Welfare Inspectors often encounter challenges such as dealing with uncooperative animal owners, assessing animal well-being in varied and sometimes difficult environments, and managing emotionally charged situations involving animal neglect or abuse. Inspectors must balance the enforcement of regulations with effective communication and education, ensuring compliance while maintaining professionalism. Additionally, the role may require adapting to irregular hours and travel, as well as working closely with law enforcement and animal care organizations to address complex cases.
What is the difference between Animal Welfare Inspector vs Animal Control Officer?
| Aspect | Animal Welfare Inspector | Animal Control Officer |
|---|---|---|
| Required credentials | Often requires certifications in animal care, inspection, or enforcement | Typically requires animal control or enforcement certifications |
| Work environment | Inspections, investigations, and compliance checks in various settings | Responds to animal-related emergencies and enforces local animal laws |
| Employer and industry usage | Government agencies, animal welfare organizations | Municipal animal control departments, local government |
| Common search and comparison intent | Understanding roles related to animal welfare and inspection | Differences in animal enforcement and control duties |
Animal Welfare Inspectors focus on ensuring compliance with animal care standards and investigating abuse, while Animal Control Officers handle animal-related emergencies and enforce local laws. Both roles work within government agencies but have distinct responsibilities related to animal safety and welfare.
How do you become an animal welfare inspector?
To become an animal welfare inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience or education in animal care or related fields. Many roles require passing a background check, obtaining relevant certifications, and sometimes completing specialized training in animal laws and inspection procedures. Strong communication skills and attention to detail are also important for this role.
How to become an animal welfare inspector?
To become an animal welfare inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience in animal care or enforcement. Many roles require knowledge of animal laws and regulations, and some positions may require certification or training in animal handling, inspection procedures, or enforcement techniques.
More about Animal Welfare Inspector jobs
What states have the most Animal Welfare Inspector jobs?
States with the most job openings for Animal Welfare Inspector jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Welfare Inspector jobs?
For Animal Welfare Inspector jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Animal Health Technician (Mounted Patrol Inspector)
CA • On-site
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
• Public Administration • 10K+ employees10,000+ employees
$50K/yr
Full-time
Re-posted 14 days ago
Key responsibilities
Make unassisted horseback patrols through rough and remote terrain along the United States-Mexico border.
Track, rope, and subdue wild, fractious, and unpredictable livestock for inspection, apprehension, and treatment.
Independently perform activities related to livestock inspection, investigation, and monitoring in the assigned sector.
United States Department Of Agriculture rating
7.8
Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted horseback patrols through rough and remote terrain in an assigned sector along the United States-Mexico border.
This Open Continuous Announcement allows acceptance of applications for 90 days with eligible applicants being referred as vacancies occur. The first cut-off for applications is June 15. Additional cut-off dates are projected for: July 13, 2026; August 10, 2026; September 2, 2026.Qualifications:Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the cut-off date following your application submission (see Additional Information for dates), including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
FOR THE GS-07 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-06 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates:
Successful completion of eighteen (18) semester hours of related graduate education obtained from an accredited college or university. Qualifying graduate courses include: agribusiness, agricultural chemistry, agricultural development, agricultural economics, agricultural education, animal breeding, animal genetics, animal health, animal nutrition, animal physiology, animal products, animal reproduction, animal science, animal toxicology, animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries sciences
Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for this grade level.
TRANSCRIPTS are required if:
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:This position does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER
This Open Continuous Announcement allows acceptance of applications for 90 days with eligible applicants being referred as vacancies occur. The first cut-off for applications is June 15. Additional cut-off dates are projected for: July 13, 2026; August 10, 2026; September 2, 2026.Qualifications:Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the cut-off date following your application submission (see Additional Information for dates), including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
SELECTIVE PLACEMENT FACTOR: To be referred for consideration for the Animal Health Technician (Mounted Patrol Inspector), candidates must meet the selective placement factor as described below. This is a minimum qualification requirement. By confirming you meet the selective placement factor you are also acknowledging that you will provide enough detail in your resume to describe your experience performing the full range of activities described in the selective factor.
Applicants must have knowledge, skill and ability to ride horseback sufficient to track, rope, and subdue wild, and/or fractious, unpredictable livestock in rough and remote terrain for the purpose of inspecting, apprehending, and treating, stray, diseased, and/or distressed animals. This work is completed independently.
FOR THE GS-07 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-06 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates:
- Independently working with livestock in a feedlot, farm, or ranch setting, which included experience inspecting the premises for irregularities.
- Interviewing livestock owners and other involved parties to obtain information for investigations and documents findings.
- Reading and interpreting records and reports to determine applicable information and courses of action.
- Monitor the activity of livestock to identify risk, inspects and detects problem areas.
Successful completion of eighteen (18) semester hours of related graduate education obtained from an accredited college or university. Qualifying graduate courses include: agribusiness, agricultural chemistry, agricultural development, agricultural economics, agricultural education, animal breeding, animal genetics, animal health, animal nutrition, animal physiology, animal products, animal reproduction, animal science, animal toxicology, animal welfare, biological and agricultural engineering, beef cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries sciences
Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for this grade level.
TRANSCRIPTS are required if:
- You are qualifying for the position based on education.
- You are qualifying for this position based on a combination of experience and education.
- This education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college, or university
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:This position does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER
What United States Department Of Agriculture employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About United States Department of Agriculture
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Public administration and food and drink manufacturing
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Washington, DC, US