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Humane Investigator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Humane Investigator information

See Minnesota salary details

$31.3K

$73.8K

$128.3K

How much do humane investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for humane investigator in Minnesota is $73,774.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $96,500.00 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 popular job titles related to Humane Investigator jobs in Minnesota? For Humane Investigator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Humane Investigator jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Humane Investigator jobs in Minnesota are:
Humane Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Humane Investigator job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,774 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Shelter Behavior Specialist - Full-Time

Animal Humane Society

Golden Valley, MN

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Animal Humane Society rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

396th of 760 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Description
The Shelter Behavior Specialist is responsible for providing behavioral support and implementing behavior modification programs. This position’s key responsibilities include completing behavior exams, placing animals as appropriate in behavior modification programs, and recommending placements and outcomes.

Requirements
Behavior Modification:
  • Complete behavior examinations for animals that need behavior support to identify behaviors for intervention.
  • Place animals as appropriate in behavior modification programs and provide recommended placements and outcomes.
  • Implement behavior modification programs for the selected behavioral concerns to enrich the animal’s environment, prevent problem behaviors, and improve their adoptability.
  • Respond to questions and concerns about shelter animal behavior, placement and outcomes.
  • Escalate complex cases and questions to higher level support.
  • Maintain detailed records of animal behavior and progress.
  • Work closely with veterinarians to address behavioral issues that may have a medical basis, ensuring a comprehensive approach to animal welfare.
  • Ensure the safety and welfare of animals, adhering to ethical standards and promoting humane treatment at all times.

Support:
  • Assist in program evaluation, including data collection, entry, and analysis as needed.
  • Assist with research initiatives to improve the understanding of animal behavior.
  • Assist with on-going training for volunteers as well as other shelter staff.
  • Serve as a member of the Critical Response Team; deploy on Humane Investigations cases as needed state-wide.

Communication and Culture:
  • Communicate in a positive and professional manner with customers, other employees, and volunteers.
  • Promote a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion to make AHS a welcoming environment for all.

Technology:
  • Accurately update animal records in PetPoint.
  • Monitor department inbox and respond to inquiries in a timely manner.
  • Clock in and out of shifts using Paycor.
  • Monitor AHS email and other messaging software.
Other duties as assigned.

Schedule and Attendance:
  • Regular, predictable attendance, punctuality, and availability to work during operational hours.
  • Attend and participate in regular team meetings, all staff meetings, and one-on-one meetings with direct leader.
  • Must be able to travel to a different work site based on department needs.
  • Must be able to travel to Humane Investigation sites state-wide as needed.
  • May be required to attend occasional off-site meetings and events.

Work Environment:
  • Environment can be dirty, wet, warm, and humid.
  • Exposure to zoonotic diseases and pests such as fleas and ticks.
  • Possibility of being bitten or scratched.
  • Exposure to unpleasant odors, chemicals, and noises, including barking.
  • May be exposed to extreme weather conditions including but not limited to cold, heat, rain, and snow when outside.
Qualifications:
Experience:
2+ years of experience in behavior modification required.
Experience with low-stress and advanced animal handling techniques, including LIMA, Fear-Free, capture and restraint preferred.

Skills:
Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills
Ability to accurately assess and document animal behavior across different species.
Proficient with computers, specifically a working knowledge of Microsoft products.

Physical Demands:
Must be able to lift, carry, and handle animals and other items up to 50 lbs. unassisted. For animals and other items over 50 lbs., assistance from another team member is required.
Prolonged periods of sitting, standing and walking.

Emotional Demands:
Must be comfortable with the emotional aspect of work in an animal shelter environment, including the use of humane euthanasia.
Must be able to work effectively in situations where animals are gravely ill or injured, neglected, abused, aggressive, or in distress.

Transportation:
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.

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