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Humane Investigator Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Animal Control Officer

Lihue, HI · On-site

$34 - $36/hr

The Kauai Humane Society (KHS) seeks a Animal Control Officer to assist with dispatch, rescue, and ... Subject to background investigation Candidates must have: * Valid Hawaii Driver's license, or valid ...

Animal Control Officer

Lihue, HI · On-site

$34 - $36/hr

The Kauai Humane Society (KHS) seeks a Animal Control Officer to assist with dispatch, rescue, and ... Subject to background investigation Candidates must have: * Valid Hawaii Driver's license, or valid ...

Humane Investigator information

See Hawaii salary details

$33.2K

$78.3K

$136.1K

How much do humane investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for humane investigator in Hawaii is $78,259.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $102,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a humane investigator?

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.

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a humane investigator?

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.

How do you become a humane investigator?

To become a humane investigator, candidates typically need a background in animal care, law enforcement, or related fields, along with knowledge of animal welfare laws. Many states require specific training or certification, and investigators often work for government agencies or animal protection organizations, sometimes needing a valid driver's license and the ability to handle stressful situations.

What are popular job titles related to Humane Investigator jobs in Hawaii?

For Humane Investigator jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Humane Investigator jobs in Hawaii look for?

The top searched job categories for Humane Investigator jobs in Hawaii are:

Infographic showing various Humane Investigator job openings in Hawaii as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,259 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Animal Control Officer

Kauai Humane Society

Lihue, HI • On-site

$34 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

The Kauai Humane Society (KHS) seeks a Animal Control Officer to assist with dispatch, rescue, and response for dogs and cats, and minor livestock counsel assistance, as it pertains to the Kauai County contract services Kauai Humane Society provides the island. Humane Officers must be willing to share work for weekends, holidays, occasional overtime, and be on-call overnight (which is compensated) two-three nights per week.

This role spends a majority of the day on the road, responding to calls across the island, and will often require lifting heavy dogs, and some cats, into the animal control vehicle.

Humane Officers must be experienced and confident when handling animals in a variety of different and often stressful situations, while also maintaining a professional and kind demeanor with members of the public at all times.

**Candidates already living on Kauai / a Hawaiian island and who have already secured housing on Kauai are strongly preferred and will be given first consideration for the position.**

Humane Officer Qualifications

The candidate must be able to meet criteria for deputization with the Kauai Police Department, including:

  • No felony convictions nor misdemeanor convictions involving a moral turpitude or of any criminal assault
  • Must be a US Citizen
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • Subject to background investigation

Candidates must have:

  • Valid Hawaii Driver’s license, or valid out-of-state license, with a clear driving record for at least one year prior to application
  • High School graduate or GED equivalent preferred, suitable work experience in lieu of education considered for adults over 21 years of age.
  • At least one year of animal handling experience
  • At least one year experience working with the public
  • Competency to use computers and online database programs, such as animal shelter software

Humane Officer Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to work with both dogs and cats of varying sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
  • Must be able to professionally and calmly deal with an emotionally charged public as well as carry a fast-paced and changing workload, which at times can be stressful.
  • Must agree to work in an environment that, by nature of the industry, understands there may be occasional exposure to injured, sick, deceased and/or difficult animals with varying health concerns.
  • Must be able to stand, walk, bend and stoop frequently and daily to perform duties.
  • Strongly preferred to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, unless valid, legal medical exemption documentation is provided.
  • Must be able to perform prolonged strenuous physical activity, including lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 50 pounds alone or up to 100 pounds with the help of fellow employees for short distances.
  • Must be able to chase or run after animals that might escape confinement.

Humane Officer Essential Duties:

  • Humanely captures, transports, and intakes stray and owned dogs and cats, with the ability/willingness to handle injured and deceased animals when necessary.
  • Investigates animal neglect and cruelty for pet animals and livestock, including but not limited to: Takes appropriate steps to educate both the complainant and the animal owner as to their legal and humane responsibility of animal ownership, Participates in the legal process when needed, including speaking in court if summoned
  • Responds to public concerns regarding dog nuisances.
  • Provides accurate information and professional, courteous service to the public at all times.
  • Produces and maintains accurate case files, records, and reports as required.
  • Provides emergency rescue and transportation of sick and injured dogs and cats during normal business hours as well as assigned on-call hours. Euthanizes animals in emergency situations at the shelter when necessary.
  • Issues citations and testifies in court as a witness on behalf of the County when necessary.
  • Treats all animals humanely, properly, and with compassion, according to established KHS procedures.
  • Promotes a humane and caring attitude toward all animals through education to the public and examples of proper animal care.
  • Cleans, disinfects, and restocks KHS vehicles and transport crates according to KHS established procedures.
  • Educates oneself continually on animal welfare laws, humane animal handling techniques, procedures and equipment and implements into daily activity according to KHS procedures.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Hourly wage range is $20-$25/hour, commensurate with experience.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:


  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discount
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance


Schedule:


  • Day shift
  • On call
  • Weekends as needed


Experience:


  • working with the public: 2 years (Preferred)
  • Animal handling: 2 years (Preferred)


License/Certification:


  • Driver's License (Required)


Work Location: In person