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Entry Level Animal Control Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

City of Buffalo

EXTERMINATOR (PROVISIONAL)

Broadway, VA · On-site

$40K - $51K/yr

THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO ANYONE APPLYING FOR THE BUFFALO POLICE ENTRY LEVEL EXAMINATION. NO RESIDENCY ... They are responsible for the prevention and destruction of small animal nuisances At times ...

All JobsEntry Level Animal Control JobsEntry Level Animal Control Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Animal Control information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$17

$27

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

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animal control in Virginia is $17.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.62 and $19.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I work at an animal shelter without experience?

Entry level animal control positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is typically provided. Basic skills such as compassion for animals, physical fitness, and the ability to handle stressful situations are important, and some roles may require a valid driver's license or certification in animal handling. Experience can be beneficial but is not always mandatory for entry-level roles in animal control.

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 do you need to get a job in animal control?

To work in animal control, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and the ability to handle animals safely. Some positions may require knowledge of animal behavior, basic first aid, or relevant certifications such as animal control or humane officer training.

How can I start working with animals?

To start working as an entry-level animal control officer, gaining experience with animals through volunteering or internships is helpful. Basic knowledge of animal behavior, safety procedures, and sometimes a high school diploma or equivalent is required; certifications in animal handling or safety can also improve job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Animal Control Officer, and why are they important?

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 are entry level animal control jobs?

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Entry level animal control positions typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized or high-level roles in industries like consulting, finance, or executive management. Most animal control jobs offer hourly wages or salaries that are significantly lower, often ranging from minimum wage to moderate salaries depending on experience and location.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Control jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Animal Control jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Animal Control jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Animal Control jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Animal Control jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animal Control jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Animal Control jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Animal Control job openings:
Entry Level Animal Control jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Animal Control job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,109 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Animal Care Technician I

Animal Welfare League of Arlington

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Salary: $18.00 - $21.00

ANIMAL CARE TECHNICIAN I (ACT I)

Job Title: Animal Care Technician I
Department: Animal Care
Reports To: Manager of Animal Care
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: Arlington, VA


POSITION SUMMARY

Animal Care Technician I (ACT I) provides foundational daily care for shelter animals, maintains high standards of cleanliness, supports low-stress and Fear Free handling practices, and assists with basic medical and behavioral tasks under supervision. This is the entry-level position within the Animal Care career path and serves as the foundation for advancement to ACT II and ACT III roles.


PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Animal Care

  • Provide daily feeding, watering, enrichment, and basic grooming for shelter animals.
  • Conduct routine animal welfare checks and promptly report concerns related to health, behavior, or overall wellbeing.
  • Participate in stress and disease reduction efforts through Fear Free, purposeful, and compassionate handling practices.
  • Support low-stress handling and stress-reduction techniques in daily animal care routines.
  • Assist with basic medical tasks (e.g., topical medications, vaccine preparation) under supervision.
  • Assist with animal intake by safely handling animals and accurately recording observations.
  • Follow and support behavior modification protocols by understanding basic behavior plans, observing animal behavior in kennel settings, and implementing assigned steps as directed by senior staff or Behavior team members.

Facility Care

  • Clean and disinfect kennels, habitats, and shared areas in accordance with established disease-control and sanitation protocols.
  • Operate laundry, dishwashing, and sanitation equipment.
  • Maintain supply rooms and restock food, litter, and cleaning products as needed.
  • Report equipment or facility issues requiring repair or replacement.

People Care

  • Provide courteous, professional support to volunteers, adopters, fosters, and staff.
  • Work collaboratively with Animal Care Volunteers, recognizing their contributions and supporting their work in accordance with AWLA guidelines.
  • Assist the Adoption team by facilitating meet-and-greets when needed to support positive and safe adoption experiences.
  • Model positive, respectful interactions consistent with AWLAs Compassionate Culture.

Administrative & Record Support

  • Assist with maintaining accurate animal records and observations in shelter databases, as directed.
  • Enter intake observations, daily notes, and care-related updates in accordance with established protocols.
  • Follow documentation and recordkeeping standards to support Animal Care, Veterinary, and Adoption teams.

Other Duties

  • Demonstrate knowledge of and adherence to AWLA policies, procedures, safety protocols, and code of conduct.
  • Support a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Take immediate action to report safety concerns that could put staff, volunteers, animals, or the organization at risk.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.


QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • General knowledge of animal behavior and animal care.
  • Ability to safely handle cats, dogs, small companion animals, wildlife, and rabies vector species.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., work on feet for extended periods, and perform physically demanding tasks.
  • Comfort working around bodily fluids, cleaning chemicals, injured or ill animals, and euthanasia-related activities.
  • Willingness to complete required training and obtain euthanasia certification within six (6) months of employment.
  • Ability to receive pre-exposure rabies vaccination upon employment.
  • Basic computer skills, including the ability to navigate databases and review records.
  • Strong work ethic, reliability, and accountability.
  • Ability to remain calm, focused, and professional in stressful, sensitive, or emotionally challenging situations.
  • Availability to work weekends, holidays, and evenings with a schedule that may change as needed.
  • Strong communication and customer service skills.


LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

  • Fluency in English required.


TYPICAL PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS

Working with animals requires frequent bending, reaching, stooping, kneeling, and extended periods of standing or walking. Strong hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity are necessary to operate common equipment such as computers, telephones, and other tools used in daily tasks.


Employees should be prepared for exposure to injured or deceased animals, disinfectant chemicals, and fluctuating indoor and outdoor temperatures. This role may involve assisting with the restraint of animals, including those that are distressed or aggressive, and may involve potential hazards such as bites or scratches.


Physical strength and stamina are essential for managing animals on leash while performing other tasks, such as opening doors or moving equipment. The ability to lift and move animals or objects weighing up to 50 lbs. is required. This role involves active, physical work throughout the day.


Clear vision and hearing are necessary for effective communication with the public, volunteers, staff, and animals. Flexibility and adaptability are critical due to frequent interruptions and changing priorities. Comfort working with a wide range of animalsincluding dogs, cats, small companion animals, reptiles, amphibians, and wildlifeis essential.


This position also requires emotional intelligence, empathy, and resilience to navigate both the rewarding and challenging aspects of animal welfare work. Employees must remain composed, compassionate, and focused in a fast-paced, emotionally dynamic environment.


VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS

Upon hire, employees are required to receive rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis and a tetanus vaccination.


BENEFITS

This position qualifies for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program. AWLA also offers a salary bonus for proficiency in Arabic, Mandarin, Sign Language, Spanish, or Vietnamese. Employees receive additional benefits including free pet adoptions, free pet vaccines, and other pet-related benefits.