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Humane Law Enforcement Officer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Police Officer

Radford, VA · On-site

$54K - $60K/yr

Required Qualifications Certification as a law enforcement officer or the willingness to complete basic law enforcement school as required by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.

Police Officer

Radford, VA · On-site

$54K - $60K/yr

Required Qualifications Certification as a law enforcement officer or the willingness to complete basic law enforcement school as required by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.

S. Law Enforcement Special Operations Unit, OR * A minimum of 4 years in a combat Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) and a minimum of 2 years as a sworn law enforcement officer/agent, OR * A ...

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Humane Law Enforcement Officer information

See Virginia salary details

$31.7K

$68.1K

$121K

How much do humane law enforcement officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for humane law enforcement officer in Virginia is $68,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,100.00 and $82,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a humane law enforcement officer?

Humane Law Enforcement Officers are specialized law enforcement professionals who investigate and enforce laws related to the welfare and protection of animals. They respond to reports of animal cruelty, neglect, and abuse, and may work with local animal shelters, police departments, or humane societies. These officers often have training in both law enforcement procedures and animal care, enabling them to handle cases involving companion animals, livestock, and sometimes wildlife. Their duties can include conducting investigations, issuing citations, rescuing animals in distress, and providing education to the public about animal welfare laws.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a humane law enforcement officer?

To thrive as a Humane Law Enforcement Officer, you need a background in criminal justice or animal science, knowledge of animal welfare laws, and relevant law enforcement training or certification. Familiarity with case management software, evidence collection tools, and radio communication systems is typically required. Strong observation, communication, conflict resolution, and empathy are crucial soft skills for building trust with the public and handling sensitive situations. These skills and qualities ensure humane treatment of animals, effective law enforcement, and positive community relations.

What are some common challenges faced by humane law enforcement officers in the field?

Humane Law Enforcement Officers often encounter emotionally challenging situations, such as rescuing abused or neglected animals and dealing with distressed animal owners. They must balance empathy with adherence to the law, making difficult decisions under pressure. Additionally, the work can involve unpredictable hours, travel to various locations, and collaboration with local law enforcement, veterinarians, and animal shelters. Building strong communication skills and resilience is essential to effectively handle the diverse and sometimes stressful demands of the role.

What is the difference between Humane Law Enforcement Officer vs Animal Control Officer?

AspectHumane Law Enforcement OfficerAnimal Control Officer
CredentialsAnimal handling certifications, law enforcement trainingAnimal handling certifications, basic law enforcement or animal control training
Work EnvironmentEnforces laws, investigates cruelty, may work in the field or officeCaptures stray animals, enforces local animal ordinances, often in the field
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, law enforcementMunicipal animal control departments, shelters

Humane Law Enforcement Officers and Animal Control Officers both work to protect animals and enforce related laws. However, Humane Law Enforcement Officers typically have law enforcement authority, investigate cruelty cases, and may work in broader legal contexts. Animal Control Officers focus on capturing stray animals, enforcing local ordinances, and may have less law enforcement authority. Both roles require animal handling skills, but Humane Law Enforcement Officers often have additional law enforcement training and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Humane Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Virginia?

For Humane Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Humane Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Humane Law Enforcement Officer jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Humane Law Enforcement Officer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,057 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

$67K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

828th of 851 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Law Enforcement Officer I
Job no: 5107328
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Chesterfield, Virginia
Categories: Public Safety
"Greater Happens HERE"
Title: Law Enforcement Officer I
State Role Title: Law Enforcement Officer I
Hiring Range: up to a MAX of $67,000.00
Pay Band: 3
Agency: Virginia State University
Location: Virginia State University
Agency Website: www.VSU.edu
Recruitment Type: General Public - G
Job Duties
Virginia State University Law Enforcement Officers are charged with the protection of life and property and enforces the laws of the Commonwealth and regulations of the University within appropriate jurisdictional confines.
JOB DUTIES:
- Conducts campus patrols;
- Investigates complaints, suspicious activities, and crime/traffic accidents;
- Makes arrests and issues citations.
- Gives court testimony and initiates written reports.
- Safely operate police vehicles and communications equipment.
- Interact professionally with students, community agencies, and visitors, and other duties as assigned when needed.
Candidates must pass a comprehensive background investigation, including a psychological, medical, and drug screening.
An applicant selected for this position and is currently employed by a Virginia State agency must complete a minimum of one-year probationary period.
Minimum Qualifications
The candidate MUST possess a current Virginia Law Enforcement certification.
MUST have one year of experience as a sworn Law Enforcement Officer.
Must have the ability to handle firearms and operate a motor vehicle safely.
Must have a working knowledge of civil and criminal law, law enforcement and basic safety practices/procedures, and the judicial system.
Must have the ability to function mentally and physically under stress in emergencies.
Must have the knowledge necessary to apply and interpret laws, rules, or regulations; work independently and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; prepare comprehensive reports; conduct investigations or other research; and resolve problems.
A valid driver's license is required.
Must never have been convicted of a felony or crime of moral turpitude.
A high school diploma or GED is required.
Must be a US citizen.
Additional Considerations
Special Instructions
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
Virginia State University is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all persons and applicants, without regard to age, color, disability, gender, national origin, political affiliation, genetic information, race, religion, sexual orientation, sex (including pregnancy) or veteran status. VSU encourages and invites minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply.
AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.
HOW TO APPLY: Virginia State University only accepts applications for this position through the on-line state Recruitment Management System (PageUp). Faxed, e-mailed, and mailed applications and/or attachments will not be accepted. The application must be detailed and fully completed. All employment and periods of unemployment (if applicable) must be listed within the application; either on an attached resume or manually listed in the "Relevant Work History" section. Each application is reviewed for documentation that shows the applicant meets the minimum and preferred qualifications stated in the job announcement. The decision to interview an applicant is based on the information provided on the application, therefore, it is essential to fully complete each section of the application and provide descriptive information. Submitting an incomplete state application, or a state application lacking in detail, may result in your non-selection. This website will provide a confirmation of receipt when the application is submitted for consideration.
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis, until position are filled . Interested persons must attach a cover letter and a current resume/c.v to the online application. Official transcripts will be required at the time of employment.
The selected candidate will be subject to an extensive and complete background check, which may include fingerprinting. The candidate may be required to complete a Statement of Economic Interest as a condition of employment, if applicable.
Employment-based visa sponsorship at Virginia State University (VSU) is not guaranteed and will be evaluated carefully on a case-by-case basis. Federal law does not require employers to provide immigration sponsorship, and VSU is not obligated to offer it. Employment at VSU does not permit an individual to work in the United States unless the appropriate employment authorization has been obtained and verified in accordance with federal immigration compliance requirements.
Commonwealth's Alternative Hiring Process: In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their Certificate of Disability (COD) provided by a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor within the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS). Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS to get their Certificate of Disability. If you need to get a Certificate of Disability, use this link: https://www.vadars.org/drs/cpid/PWContact.aspx , or call DARS at 800-552-5019.
  • Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
    Immediate vesting | Portable | Investment choice
  • Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
    Defined benefit pension | Lifetime monthly income
  • 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP)
  • 403(b) (TIAA)
  • Comprehensive medical & dental plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid annual and sick leave
  • Paid state and federal holidays
  • Employer-paid life insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility
  • Telework opportunities (where applicable)

Contact Information
Name: Dominique M. Fisher
Phone: 804-524-5075
Email: dfisher@vsu.edu
In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.
Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.
Advertised: 20 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
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