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Humane Investigator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lead Veterinarian

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Euthanize and/or assist with euthanasia of animals as needed in accordance with PHS/SPCA policies and procedures and California state law. * Assist Animal Rescue & Control, Humane Investigations and ...

Veterinarian

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

San Diego Humane Society provides vital services to animals and people by sheltering and adopting animals, investigating animal cruelty and neglect, inspiring compassion in people through education ...

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Animal Control Officer

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Position Overview Foster a humane attitude toward animal care and treatment through education and ... Investigate animal incidents, prepare and execute warrants, and collaborate with legal authorities.

Animal Control Officer

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Position Overview Foster a humane attitude toward animal care and treatment through education and ... Investigate animal incidents, prepare and execute warrants, and collaborate with legal authorities.

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Animal Control Officer

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... humane field euthanasia when necessary. * Perform technical animal rescues and enforce local/state animal laws, including dangerous animal complaints and citations. * Investigate animal incidents ...

... and investigating local municipal, state, and federal animal laws; preventing the spread of ... Performs humane euthanasia on animals as necessary. Assists in receiving, feeding and caring for ...

... humane handling techniques. Methods and techniques for effective public relations, community outreach, education, and training. Basic investigative procedures, report writing, and enforcement ...

Animal Control Officer

Hayward, CA ยท On-site

$77K - $93K/yr

... and investigating local municipal, state, and federal animal laws; preventing the spread of ... Performs humane euthanasia on animals as necessary. * Assists in receiving, feeding and caring for ...

Senior Animal Control Officer

Oroville, CA ยท On-site

$24.51 - $32.84/hr

... investigation of complaints regarding animal cruelty or neglect. Investigates animal bites and ... Operates humane traps, mobile radios, and related animal control tools and equipment; may use ...

Veterinary Assistant

Santa Ana, CA ยท On-site

$55K - $74K/yr

Incumbents are required to pass a comprehensive background investigation to the satisfaction of the ... Tranquilization/Humane Euthanasia: Assignments in this classification require incumbents to perform ...

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Humane Investigator information

See California salary details

$31.6K

$74.3K

$129.3K

How much do humane investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for humane investigator in California is $74,338.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,800.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Humane Investigator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Humane Investigator, you need a solid understanding of animal welfare laws, investigative techniques, and preferably experience in law enforcement or animal services. Familiarity with case management software, digital photography, and certifications such as Certified Animal Cruelty Investigator (CACI) are often valuable. Outstanding soft skills include strong communication, emotional resilience, attention to detail, and the ability to work sensitively with the public under stressful circumstances. These abilities are crucial for effectively investigating cases, protecting animal welfare, and navigating the legal and emotional complexities of the role.

What is the highest paying investigator job?

The highest paying investigator roles are often senior positions such as private investigators, corporate security investigators, or specialized federal agents like FBI or DEA investigators, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. Factors influencing pay include experience, certifications, and the complexity of investigations conducted.

What is the highest paying job in animal welfare?

The highest paying roles in animal welfare are often senior management positions such as executive directors or chief operating officers at large animal organizations, which can earn six-figure salaries. Specialized roles like veterinary surgeons with advanced certifications and experience also tend to have higher compensation within the field.

What is a Humane Investigator job?

A Humane Investigator is responsible for enforcing animal cruelty laws and ensuring the welfare of animals. They investigate reports of neglect or abuse, work with law enforcement, and may conduct rescues or issue citations. Humane Investigators often educate pet owners on proper care and may testify in court cases. Their goal is to protect animals from mistreatment and promote humane treatment standards.

How do I become an animal cruelty investigator?

To become an animal cruelty investigator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, experience with animals, and knowledge of animal welfare laws. Many agencies prefer applicants to have training in criminal justice, law enforcement, or related fields, and some require certification or specialized training in animal cruelty investigation. Strong observation, communication skills, and the ability to handle difficult situations are also important.

How much do humane police officers make?

Humane police officers, also known as animal control officers or humane investigators, typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and agency size. They often require knowledge of animal laws, investigation skills, and may work irregular hours or in outdoor environments.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Humane Investigator?

A Humane Investigator typically spends their days responding to reports of animal cruelty or neglect, conducting on-site investigations, gathering evidence, and interviewing witnesses or suspects. They often collaborate with law enforcement, veterinarians, and animal control personnel to ensure thorough case documentation and appropriate action. The role may involve preparing detailed reports, following up on ongoing cases, testifying in court, and raising public awareness about animal welfare. This dynamic and field-oriented job requires adaptability and compassion when dealing with both animals and people.

What are the most commonly searched types of Humane Investigator jobs in California? The most popular types of Humane Investigator jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Humane Investigator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,338 per year, or $35.7 per hour.

Lead Veterinarian

Peninsula Humane Society

San Mateo, CA โ€ข On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 hours ago


Job description

Job Title: Lead Veterinarian

FLSA Status: Exempt, Full-Time (Will consider Part-Time)

Salary: $175,000 - $250,000 per year (DOE)

Competitive Compensation Package Available; Relocation and/or

Student Loan Repayment Negotiable

If you’re looking for an opportunity to lead a team of dedicated shelter veterinarians, PHS/SPCA may be the perfect place for you!

Who we are: PHS/SPCA is a successful, well-established non-profit humane society committed to serving the animals and people of our community. Among our major programs, PHS/SPCA adopts fully 100% of healthy, adoptable dogs and cats in our care and, through our charitably funded Hope Program, makes well and finds homes for thousands of animals who come to us sick, injured or too young to survive without supportive care. To learn more about us, visit www.phs-spca.org.

Who you are: You thrive in a fast-paced, animal shelter environment, holding animal health and welfare as the primary concern. In addition to practicing shelter medicine, you enjoy communicating and educating staff, volunteers and the public regarding medical issues, zoonotic diseases and specific animal population diseases. You’re looking for an opportunity to lead a team of dedicated shelter veterinarians in overseeing a strong, well-established shelter veterinary medical program.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following (other duties may be assigned):

  • Recommend, develop and implement veterinary medical protocols and procedures for all departments and programs.
  • Monitor health of the shelter population and work collaboratively with shelter managers to recognize, contain and treat contagious diseases, including zoonotic diseases.
  • Mentor, guide, train and advise Veterinarians, staff and volunteers to promote better animal husbandry and excellence in veterinary medical care. Train Staff Veterinarians as needed and as appropriate.
  • Regularly conduct rounds with Staff Veterinarians to discuss medical and surgical cases.
  • Ensure animal medical records are maintained as required by law.
  • Ensure every animal has a clear and concise plan regarding any medical condition(s), diagnosis, treatment and prognosis.
  • Act as a liaison for the public and staff regarding concerns, disputes or misconceptions of animal medical care at PHS/SPCA. Act as the primary contact person for situations that may arise involving the public related to PHS/SPCA policies and procedures and veterinary medical care.
  • Maintain California Veterinary License in good standing. Pursue adequate and appropriate continuing education to continue to provide the Standard of Care.
  • Maintain current premise permits and DEA licenses for PHS/SPCA facilities as appropriate and as required by law. Serve as the Supervising Veterinarian for all Veterinary Assistant Controlled Substance Permits.
  • Be available to advise veterinary department managers on occasion regarding after hours emergencies.
  • Examine, diagnose and prescribe treatment for animals in PHS/SPCA care as needed and as appropriate.
  • Provide emergency medical care as needed.
  • Consult with specialists on specific medical cases when appropriate.
  • Perform surgical sterilization of owned and shelter dogs, cats and rabbits. Perform other surgical procedures as indicated.
  • Perform and assist as needed in the daily activities of the Department
  • Euthanize and/or assist with euthanasia of animals as needed in accordance with PHS/SPCA policies and procedures and California state law.
  • Assist Animal Rescue & Control, Humane Investigations and/or the District Attorney in the investigation and prosecution of cases of animal cruelty or neglect. Perform and record necropsies as needed. Appear in court to substantiate findings as necessary.

  • Work with Veterinary Services managers to ensure department equipment in good working order.
  • Provide staff, volunteer and public educational lectures as needed. Participate in writing educational materials and articles for PHS/SPCA.
  • Participate in periodic vaccine clinics, educational programs and special events as needed.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Supervises Staff Veterinarians. Indirectly supervises other Veterinary Services staff and volunteers in conjunction with department Managers. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include assisting in interviewing, hiring, training employees and volunteers; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees and volunteers; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine; minimum of five years working with animals in a clinical environment with a strong preference for shelter medicine experience; equivalent combination of education and experience. Previous supervisory experience preferred.
  • Possess and maintain California State Licenses Veterinarian in good standing with a valid DEA license.
  • Possess a valid California Driver’s License with a satisfactory driving record to be insured by our insurance company.
  • Upon hire, must pass a background check.
  • Proficient knowledge of Chameleon database software or become proficient within the first six months from hire date. Basic knowledge or become proficient with Microsoft Office and computer keyboarding skills (data entry).
  • Good verbal and written communication skills. Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, volunteers, and other employees of the organization.
  • Ability to communicate in a calm and clear manner with the public, volunteers and fellow employees, especially in stressful situations. Ability to remain calm and focused in emergency situations.
  • Must be open to new ideas and have the ability to compromise and be flexible when appropriate.
  • Ability to add and subtract, multiply and divide. Ability to perform these operations using units, weight measurement, and volume.
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
  • Ability to treat all animals regardless of species or temperament with compassion and as equally deserving of veterinary care.
  • Ability to work independently.

Excellent Benefits Package Available

  • Medical /Dental /Vision/Life Insurance /Flex Spending
  • Sick, Vacation and Holidays
  • Continued Education and Licensing Renewal Reimbursement Available
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Retirement plan & employer matching

Available to all employees with pets:

  • Free vaccines, spay/neuter, microchipping, and two pet adoptions
  • Discounted euthanasia services/cremation, bloodwork, urinalysis, prescription food, and discounts at our retail stores.

For more information about our available job opportunities and how to apply, please visit our website at www.phs-spca.org/careers.

The Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA is an equal opportunity employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. EOE/M/F/D/V/SO