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Humane Investigator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

... humane investigations (e.g. documenting and performing forensic examinations, testifying in court, etc.) Maintains applicable records SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES Exercises supervision of assigned ...

Laboratory Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$10 - $22/hr

PCM supports investigators through expertise in patient-derived xenografts, cell-line xenografts ... Maintain proper respect for and humane care and handling of research animals. Cell line and patient ...

Laboratory Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$10 - $22/hr

PCM supports investigators through expertise in patient-derived xenografts, cell-line xenografts ... Maintain proper respect for and humane care and handling of research animals. Cell line and patient ...

Laboratory Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$10 - $22/hr

PCM supports investigators through expertise in patient-derived xenografts, cell-line xenografts ... Maintain proper respect for and humane care and handling of research animals. Cell line and patient ...

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Humane Investigator information

See Illinois salary details

$31K

$73K

$126.9K

How much do humane investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for humane investigator in Illinois is $72,991.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,900.00 and $95,400.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Humane Investigator jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Humane Investigator jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Humane Investigator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,991 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Animal Services Veterinarian

County of DuPage

Wheaton, IL

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 hours ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY We are pleased to offer the current job opportunity for a Veterinarian in our Animal Services Department. DuPage County Animal Services (DCAS) is an immediate open shelter caring for more than 2,300 animals of varying species annually. We are excited for you to join our recently remodeled shelter.

The new shelter design will allow DuPage County Animal Services to: Provide modern, stress-reducing, and healthy housing for animals. Allow the shelter to have more welcoming and appropriate spaces for the public to be counseled on services and solutions with animals. Expand opportunities for residents to benefit from animal related educational and training classes.

Provide more functional and supportive spaces for staff and volunteers. Create a more public, warm and inviting place that promotes volunteerism, adoption, fostering, humane education, and sense of community for people that love animals. Provide the best care and find the best outcomes for animals.

Benefits: There are four medical plans to choose from, all through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL): Blue Advantage HMO, Blue Choice PPO, PPO 1 and Blue Edge Health Savings Account (HSA). Dental/Vision Optional Life Vacation, Sick, and Paid Leave Time 12 paid holidays Penson Plan: The Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) is public pension fund that administers retirement, disability, and death benefits for employees of local government in Illinois. IMRF serves more than 3,000 employers and manages about $52 billion in assets.

With a funded status of 96.6%, IMRF is one of the best-funded public pension systems in the country. To learn more about the cost and coverage of the benefits plan, visit Employees Benefit Information. For detailed information on paid time off, visit Employee Policy Manual, Section 5 DuPage County is an Equal Opportunity Employer RESPONSIBILITIES ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The list of duties and responsibilities is illustrative only, and is not a comprehensive listing of all the duties and responsibilities performed by positions in this class

Develops, reviews, and upholds animal standard of care practices and medical treatment protocols Develops and maintains protocols for managing disease in large groups of animals at the County Shelter Implements and manages staff and facility sanitation and hygiene protocols including disease control Upholds current animal welfare standards of care (e.g. feeding practices, caging, stress reduction, etc.) Executes emergency triage and stabilization of ill and injured animals Performs adult and pediatric castration and ovariohysterectomy (OHE) Performs veterinary dental care of animals Performs surgical procedures on various species of animals (i.e. amputations, cyst removals, etc.) Performs adoption examinations to identify health and temperament conditions Performs surgical procedures and wellness or sick pet exams on pets owned by members of the public utilizing the County's low-cost clinic services

Develops, reviews and upholds animal care best practices and medical treatment protocols Ensures compliance with humane methods of the euthanasia of animals Performs physical examinations and vaccinations of animals housed at the shelter Ensures quality and consistent care for animals at County shelter Examines, documents and treats abuse cases, working with Law Enforcement and other agencies as necessary Participates in humane investigations (e.g. documenting and performing forensic examinations, testifying in court, etc.) Maintains applicable records SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES Exercises supervision of assigned personnel in the DCAS. REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE Requirements include the following experience or equivalent combination of training and experience: EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE Graduation from a Veterinary College or University approved or accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association with a Veterinariae Medicinae Doctoris (VMD) or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Compensation commensurate with experience, skills Preferred: One (1) year of supervisory experience, clinical veterinary medical experience and/or shelter medicine/surgery experience CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS This position requires: A current license to practice veterinary medicine in the State of Illinois A current DEA license A current Illinois Veterinary Controlled Substance license Valid Illinois Drivers' License A pre-employment background check is required

Physical Requirements and Work Environment PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Heavy Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body.

Use of arm and /or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than for medium work. WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The work will occur in an animal shelter environment. While performing the duties and responsibilities, the employee will be exposed to loud noise, noxious odors, zoonotic diseases, and will be subject to animal bites, scratches, and/or kicks.