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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 29, 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 are popular job titles related to Entry Level Animal Control jobs in New York?

For Entry Level Animal Control jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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.

DOG CONTROL OFFICER (PERMANENT) (DPW)

City of Buffalo

New York, NY

$41K - $51K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 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 Dog Control Officer is responsible for the pick-up, impounding and care of small animals running at large in violation of city laws and ordinances. Work is performed in accordance with prescribed practices and procedures

However, as stated in Section ll4 (l) of Article 7 of the Agriculture and Markets Law, incumbents have the powers of a peace officer in enforcing this article. Immediate supervision is received from the Director of Animal Control. No supervision is exercised over other personnel.

Examples of work (Illustration Only) Picks-up licensed, unlicensed or sick dogs found in the street and transports them to the animal shelter or veterinary clinics; - transports animals from animal shelter to veterinary clinics; Provides care, feed and attention to small animals in custody of the animal shelter; Performs duties pertaining to animal shelter proper such as cleaning, sweeping, etc. as prescribed by law. Operates truck in performance of duties; Delivers animals to proper disposal points; Maintains constant radio contact; Maintains truck and performs minor maintenance as required.

Investigates complaints received from the general public; Institutes court action for violation of laws and ordinances; Distributes posters, literature and warning slips to the public alerting to city dog ordinances; Handles pistol when needed; Assists in the disposition of sick or unwanted animals (Euthanasia); Prepares and submits daily written work reports; Performs related duties as required. Minimum Qualifications MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS One year of full-time experience in the pick-up, handling or care of small animals in a recognized animal clinic, hospital or shelter. Educational substitution for the experience requirement: Educational credits in laboratory animal care/animal husbandry from an accredited college, university or BOCES vocational center.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT (must be maintained during employment): 1.)Possession of a current New York State Drivers License to be presented at time of appointment; 2.)Possession of a Gun Permit to be presented within six months of date of appointment. *Applicants must consent to screening requirements of the New York State License Event Notification Service (LENS). This provision is in accordance with Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 382.703(a) and cannot be performed without the consent of the applicant

THE CITY OF BUFFALO IS AN EQUAL OPPORUNITY EMPLOYER Additional Information Working knowledge of the care and handling of dogs and small animals; Basic knowledge of the various species and characteristics of small animals; Ability to follow oral and written instructions; Ability to prepare and submit daily work reports; Ability to operate a panel truck; Ability to handle a pistol in the performance of duties; Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position