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Entry Level Animal Control Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Animal Care Technician

Port Huron, MI

$14.75 - $20/hr

Work is performed under the supervision of the Director of the Animal Control or designee ... This is an entry level position. Ability to assist with handling or be present during euthanasia ...

Animal Services Supervisor

Fremont, CA · On-site

$83.28K - $101.23K/yr

Police Entry Level Division: POL-Animal Services Opening Date: 12/16/2024 Description The Fremont ... Enforces animal control laws in the field. * Investigates animal service requests. * Issues ...

Police Officer - POST Certified

Hudson, CO · On-site

$84.10K - $95K/yr

... entry level position. Candidates must have a current Colorado POST Certification, or an out-of ... Ability to perform animal control and code enforcement functions * Develop and maintain respectful ...

Police Officer - POST Certified

Hudson, CO · On-site

$86.63K - $97.85K/yr

... entry level position. Candidates must have a current Colorado POST Certification, or an out-of ... Ability to perform animal control and code enforcement functions * Develop and maintain respectful ...

Animal Care Attendant

Woodland, CA · On-site

$37.81K - $45.97K/yr

The Position Under close supervision, the Animal Care Attendant performs a variety of entry-level ... Animal Services in Yolo County provides animal care and control services by contract to the County ...

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Entry Level Animal Control information

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

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animal control in the United States is $17.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

More about Entry Level Animal Control jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Animal Control jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Animal Control job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Control jobs? The most popular types of Animal Control jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Animal Control jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Animal Control jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Animal Control job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 18% Physical, 18% Hybrid, and 64% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,129 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Animal Services Officer - Non-Merit

Animal Services Officer - Non-Merit

Baltimore County

Towson, MD

$19.43 - $28.25/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Baltimore County rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

507th of 640 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Regular Schedule: 39 hours per week A Non-Merit vacancy exists in the Department of Health and Human Services. Bureau of Animal Services, Communicable Disease and Environmental Services. Non-Merit positions are not classified within the Baltimore County Government Classification and Compensation Plan.

A list of eligible applicants will be established based on the examination as outlined below. Current and future vacancies occurring in any Office or Department of Baltimore County General Government may be filled from the list of eligible applicants. All interested candidates must apply at this time.

List all promotions and changes in job duties due to reclassification as separate work experiences on your application. Applicants must include the dates of the promotions and reclassifications. Note: Failure to complete all fields of the "Work Experience" section of the application will result in your application not being considered.

A resume will not be considered in determining your qualifications for a position. Applicants selected for an interview may provide a resume at that time. You can attach your transcript(s) or license(s) to your application.

Failure to submit proof of Licenses, Certifications and Education will result in your application not being considered. Proof of licenses, certifications, and/or education must be submitted with each application. Examples of Duties Under general supervision, investigates complaints, inspects facilities, and enforces laws, codes, and regulations pertaining to animal protection.

Performs duties in the receipt, care, custody, and disposition of animals, and the operation and maintenance of animal shelter facilities. Operates an animal services vehicle. Impounds stray animals and transports them to shelter facilities.

Assists with aggressive, sick, injured or dead domestic pets and wildlife. Impounds and returns community cats as part of the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program. Enforces animal laws and issues citations.

Receives, responds to, and investigates complaints and inquiries regarding animal services. Responds to emergency calls during scheduled on-call shifts. Investigates reports of animal cruelty, animal bites, nuisance and/or dangerous animals and other suspected violations of animal laws including the removal of dangerous animals or those who are victims of animal neglect/cruelty.

Testifies in court and at hearings. Inspects kennels, grooming parlors, pet shops and other animal care facilities. Provides general information, instruction, education, and assistance to the public regarding animal programs, services, and operations.

Completes thorough inspection reports and enters data into computer. Maintains vehicles and assigned equipment. Assists veterinarians in the examination and treatment of animals.

Administers minor medical treatments to animals. Euthanizes animals. Prepares and delivers rabies lab specimens.

Keeps records of adoptions, redemptions, impoundments and euthanasia. Enters data into computer. Collects fees.

Provides information to the public about adoption, animal laws and licensing. Informs pet owners about available low-cost veterinary services including rabies vaccination, microchipping and spay/neuter. Shares with citizens the details and importance of Animal Services' programs including foster, volunteer, TNR and rabies prevention at off-site events and for community outreach.

EXAMPLES OF OTHER DUTIES Performs other related duties as required. (NOTE: The duties and responsibilities listed above are for the purpose of determining a common set of minimum qualifications for all positions in this class. They may not include all of the essential job functions of each position in the class.

Each position may not be required to perform all of the essential job functions listed.) Qualifications Required Qualifications Possession of a high school diploma or an appropriate equivalent plus two years in an investigation and enforcement capacity or animal care and handling in a shelter, veterinary hospital or other equivalent animal care/control organization. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Entry Level) Ability to learn and enforce laws, codes, and regulations pertaining to animal protection and care. Ability to acquire knowledge of the principles and practices of humane animal care

Ability to learn how to investigate and resolve complaints. Possess and maintain certification for Euthanasia by Injection (EBI) or obtain certification within six months of hire Ability to work on-call nights, weekends, and holidays. Successfully complete Animal Control Officers training program within the first year of hire.

Ability to testify in civil and criminal court proceedings. Ability to use problem solving skills, sound judgment, and common sense in working through unusual and sometimes highly emotional situations. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Full Performance) Skill in the care and treatment of animals.

Skill in handling and transporting of animals. Skill in the use of computers and application software. Ability to read and understand maps, operate GPS equipment and portable radios.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the public. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to complete and maintain files, records, and forms.

Licenses and Certificates Possession of a valid driver's license equivalent to a noncommercial, class C Maryland driver's license is required at the time of appointment. Proof of Licenses, Certifications and Education Applicants are required to submit proof of licenses, certifications and education beyond high school to meet the required and preferred qualifications of the position. Diplomas or transcripts must show the applicant's major field of study.

Copies and unofficial transcripts are acceptable. Failure to submit proof of Licenses, Certifications and Education will result in your application not being considered. Proof of licenses, certifications, and/or education must be submitted with each application.

Proof of Degree Equivalency Applicants who have obtained a degree from outside the United States of America are required to submit degree equivalence documentation from World Education Services, Inc. (www.WES.org) Mail or deliver documents to: ATTN: Animal Services Officer - Non-Merit Office of Human Resources Baltimore County Government 308 Allegheny Ave. Towson, MD 21204 You can attach your transcript(s) or license(s) to your application

EXAMINATION PROCEDURE Applicants will be qualified based on an evaluation of their training and experience, as stated on their application, which includes answers to the supplemental questions. Applicants must state the dates and duties of past and present experience clearly and completely for evaluation purposes. Conditions of Employment Physical and Environmental Conditions The work of this classification entails the performance of heavy physical labor including bending, stooping, lifting and carrying heavy animals and objects, and the operation of vehicles and equipment.

Work requires exposure to potentially hazardous conditions such as rabid animals, adverse weather, traffic, and cleaning supplies. Medical Examination and Employment Background Investigation Applicants selected for an appointment to a position in Baltimore County must successfully complete a physical examination and drug screen and an employment background investigation, including, but not limited to a criminal background, education, and fingerprint check.


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