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Entry Level Animal Control Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Animal Control information

See New York salary details

$10

$19

$30

How much do entry level animal control jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animal control in New York is $19.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.19 and $21.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level animal control?

Entry level animal control jobs involve enforcing animal-related laws and regulations, responding to calls about stray or dangerous animals, and assisting with the care and sheltering of animals. Workers may patrol assigned areas, investigate complaints, capture animals, and educate the public about responsible pet ownership. These positions often require a high school diploma, a valid driver's license, and training in animal handling and safety. Entry level animal control officers work under supervision and may advance with experience and additional training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level animal control officer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Animal Control Officer, you need a basic understanding of animal behavior, safety procedures, and local animal regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with animal restraint tools, incident reporting software, and sometimes animal handling certifications is beneficial. Strong communication, problem-solving, and compassion are important soft skills for effectively interacting with the public and ensuring humane animal treatment. These skills and qualities are vital for protecting community safety, enforcing animal-related laws, and promoting animal welfare.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level animal control officers, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Entry-level animal control officers often encounter challenges such as handling frightened or aggressive animals, working in unpredictable environments, and managing emotionally charged situations with the public. New hires can prepare by familiarizing themselves with animal behavior, practicing safe capture and handling techniques, and developing strong communication skills for interacting with community members. Additionally, being adaptable and receptive to on-the-job training helps in responding effectively to a wide variety of calls and emergencies.

What is the difference between Entry Level Animal Control vs Animal Shelter Technician?

AspectEntry Level Animal ControlAnimal Shelter Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some certifications preferredHigh school diploma; animal care certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, fieldwork, interacting with animals and the publicIndoor and outdoor, caring for animals in shelter settings
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal animal control agencies, local governmentsAnimal shelters, rescue organizations, humane societies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in animal controlLearning about animal care roles in shelters

Entry Level Animal Control officers primarily focus on enforcing animal laws, capturing stray animals, and working outdoors in the community. In contrast, Animal Shelter Technicians mainly care for animals within shelter facilities, providing daily care and health monitoring. Both roles require a passion for animals and some certifications, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Control jobs in New York?

The most popular types of Animal Control jobs in New York are:

What cities in New York are hiring for Entry Level Animal Control jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Entry Level Animal Control job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Animal Control job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,592 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

HEAD EXTERMINATOR (PERMANENT) (DPW)

City of Buffalo

New York, NY

$41K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

RESIDENCE: Residence is a requirement for all positions. In the absence of clear and convincing evidence to the contrary, an applicant shall be deemed a non-resident if he/she cannot show ninety (90) days of continuous and uninterrupted residence in the City of Buffalo prior to filing application. THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO ANYONE APPLYING FOR THE BUFFALO POLICE ENTRY LEVEL EXAMINATION.

NO RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT-SUMMER LIFEGUARDS: Due to the nationwide lifeguard shortage, residency is NOT a requirement for the seasonal lifeguard position in the City of Buffalo. Applicants from any nearby municipality are encouraged to apply. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT THE ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF BUFFALO MANDATE CONTINUOUS RESIDENCY IN THE CITY DURING YOUR EMPLOYMENT, EXCEPT FOR POSITIONS SPECIFICALLY EXEMPT UNDER STATE LAW.

FEE: WHERE INDICATED, A NON-REFUNDABLE APPLICATION PROCESSING FEE MUST ACCOMPANY YOUR APPLICATION VIA CHECK, CASH OR MONEY ORDER (If using check for payment, your check must clear to complete processing.) Check with Civil Service office for fee waiver info. Distinguishing Features of the Class An incumbent to a position in this class is responsible for the performance of all skilled extermination work performed by licensed Exterminators. The Head Exterminator performs the more sophisticated and skilled aspects of the trade

The incumbent exercises considerable leeway for independent decision making as to tasks and methods used and for planning and assigning of work activities. General supervision is received from a higher-ranking employee. Immediate supervision is exercised over licensed Exterminators and employees assigned.

Examples of work (Illustration Only) Plans, supervises and coordinates the elimination or control of ants, insects, pests, rodents, roaches, etc. with insecticides or fumigants by licensed Exterminators; -supervises the disposal of dead animals, rodents, etc. Directs and assists in the mixing and storage of chemicals and poisons; Supervises and/or participates in the operation of fogging machines and other spraying equipment; -supervises the maintenance of extermination related equipment; Requisitions extermination materials, supplies and equipment; -maintains inventory of same; Maintains detailed records of housekeeping, general conditions, use of materials and effectiveness of procedures; -submits reports as required; -develops a more effective preventative extermination scheduling program; Monitors Animal Control Laws and City Ordinances for rodent control; -may issue notices and summonses to violators; Monitors the work of contracted licensed Exterminators before final payment; -lays out and estimates job costs and requirements; -inspects completed work before payment is made; Inspection of all properties prior to demolition for rodents and other undesirable animal life; -baits properties for demolitions and returns for further inspection if necessary; Educates the public on the seriousness of pest and insect infestations and methods of prevention; -attends Block Club meetings, etc.; Assists other city departments in the removal of animals on properties in violation of city laws and ordinances; Assists in seizure of all animals including deer (other than dogs and cats); -may be required to chemically capture or tranquilize animals, if necessary; May investigate citizen complaints; Drives to and from work sites; Performs related duties as required

Minimum Qualifications Promotional Continuous and permanent status in any city department as an Exterminator for one year. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS (must be maintained during employment), 1. All applicants must possess a current and valid Commercial Pesticide Applicators Certificate issued by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation that must be presented at time of appointment.

2. All applicants must possess a current NYS Driver's License that must be presented at time of appointment. 3.

Applicants who are appointed to the Department of Public Works, Parks & Streets must, possess a Nuisance Control License issued by the NYS Department of Environmental, Conservation that must be presented within 12 months of date of appointment. Open Competitive Two years of full-time experience working as an Exterminator dealing with the preventive and precautionary measures in the elimination of rodents, pigeons and/or common household pests. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS (must be maintained during employment), 1.All applicants must possess a current and valid Commercial Pesticide Applicators Certificate issued by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation that must be presented at time of appointment

2.All applicants must possess a current NYS Driver's License that must be presented at time of appointment. 3.Applicants who are appointed to the Department of Public Works, Parks & Streets must possess a Nuisance Control License issued by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation that must be presented within 12 months of date of appointment. NOTE: Verifiable part-time experience will be pro-rate toward meeting the full-time experience requirement

THE CITY OF BUFFALO IS AN EQUAL OPPORUNITY EMPLOYER