Full Time Animal Control Officer information
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$28.5K - $32.3K
5% of jobs
$32.3K - $36.1K
8% of jobs
$38.7K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$36.1K - $40K
17% of jobs
The median wage is $44.5K / yr.
$43.8K - $47.6K
14% of jobs
$47.6K - $51.4K
11% of jobs
$52.6K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$51.4K - $55.2K
11% of jobs
$62.9K - $66.7K
3% of jobs
$66.7K - $70.5K
2% of jobs
How much do full time animal control officer jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time animal control officer in the United States is $47,913.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $54,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Full Time Animal Control Officers often encounter unpredictable situations, such as frightened or aggressive animals, distressed pet owners, and emotionally charged environments. One challenge is balancing the safety of the public, the welfare of the animal, and enforcing local ordinances. Officers must also be prepared for variable work hours and potential exposure to hazardous conditions or zoonotic diseases. Strong communication skills and sound judgment are essential for de-escalating tense situations and fostering positive community relations.
Full Time Animal Control Officers are professionals responsible for enforcing animal-related laws and ordinances within a community. Their duties typically include investigating reports of animal cruelty or neglect, capturing stray or dangerous animals, and educating the public on responsible pet ownership. They also respond to emergencies involving animals, help reunite lost pets with their owners, and may handle licensing or shelter operations. These officers often work closely with law enforcement, veterinarians, and local shelters to ensure public safety and animal welfare.
To thrive as a Full Time Animal Control Officer, you need knowledge of animal behavior, local animal control laws, and often a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with animal handling equipment, incident reporting software, and sometimes certification in animal control or humane animal capture techniques is important. Strong communication, conflict resolution, and compassion are vital soft skills for interacting with the public and managing stressful situations. These abilities ensure the safety of both animals and the community, effective enforcement of regulations, and the humane treatment of animals.
What cities are hiring for Full Time Animal Control Officer jobs?
Cities with the most Full Time Animal Control Officer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Control Officer jobs?
The most popular types of Animal Control Officer jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Animal Control Officer jobs?
States with the most job openings for Full Time Animal Control Officer jobs include: