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Humane Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kauai Humane Society

Animal Control Officer

Lihue, HI · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

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 ...

Kauai Humane Society

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 response for dogs and cats, and minor livestock counsel assistance, as it pertains to the Kauai ...

Jefferson Parish

HUMANE OFFICER (6612)

Gretna, LA

$37K/yr

Attends legal proceedings, and must be able to communicate results to court officers or liaisons. Prepares investigative reports and performs property inspections. Enforces all animal control and ...

Jefferson Parish, LA

HUMANE OFFICER (6612)

Gretna, LA · On-site

$37K/yr

Attends legal proceedings, and must be able to communicate results to court officers or liaisons. Prepares investigative reports and performs property inspections. Enforces all animal control and ...

City of Alvin

Animal Control Officer

Alvin, TX · On-site

$17.13/hr

A Humane Officer (also referred to as an Animal Control Officer) is under the general supervision of the Shelter Manager who operates the City's animal shelter and is responsible for the enforcement ...

City of Alvin

Animal Control Officer

Alvin, TX · On-site

$17.13/hr

A Humane Officer (also referred to as an Animal Control Officer) is under the general supervision of the Shelter Manager who operates the City's animal shelter and is responsible for the enforcement ...

City of Alvin

Animal Control Officer

Alvin, TX · On-site

$17.13/hr

A Humane Officer (also referred to as an Animal Control Officer) is under the general supervision of the Shelter Manager who operates the City's animal shelter and is responsible for the enforcement ...

City of Alvin Texas

Animal Control Officer

Alvin, TX

$17.13/hr

A Humane Officer (also referred to as an Animal Control Officer) is under the general supervision of the Shelter Manager who operates the City's animal shelter and is responsible for the enforcement ...

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All JobsHumane Officer Jobs

Humane Officer information

See salary details

$23.5K

$75.9K

$182.5K

How much do humane officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for humane officer in the United States is $75,929.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do you need to work at a humane society?

Humane officers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in animal care or related fields. Certification in animal handling, knowledge of local animal laws, and good communication skills are often required. Some positions may also require background checks and physical fitness to handle animals and perform fieldwork.

How much do humane police officers make?

Humane police officers typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on location and experience. Salaries can increase with additional certifications, specialized training, and years of service, and officers often work in environments that require knowledge of animal care and law enforcement procedures.

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

AspectHumane OfficerAnimal Control Officer
Required CredentialsAnimal handling certifications, sometimes law enforcement trainingAnimal handling certifications, law enforcement or municipal training
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, animal rescue, shelter workFieldwork, animal rescue, enforcement duties
Employer & IndustryAnimal shelters, humane societies, government agenciesMunicipal governments, animal control departments

Humane Officers and Animal Control Officers often perform similar duties such as rescuing animals and enforcing laws. The main difference lies in their titles and sometimes their specific responsibilities or certifications. Both roles are vital in animal welfare and typically work in similar environments, often within government or nonprofit organizations.

What are Humane Officers?

Humane Officers are professionals who enforce laws related to the treatment and welfare of animals. They investigate reports of animal cruelty, neglect, and abuse, and may have the authority to issue citations, remove animals from dangerous situations, and educate the public about proper animal care. Humane Officers often work with local animal shelters, law enforcement agencies, and animal control departments to ensure the humane treatment of animals within their jurisdiction.

How do I become an animal welfare officer?

To become an animal welfare officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience working with animals. Relevant skills include knowledge of animal care, good communication, and sometimes certification in animal handling or first aid. Some positions may require a college degree in animal science, biology, or a related field.

What are some common challenges a Humane Officer may face in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Humane Officers often encounter emotionally charged situations, such as cases of animal neglect or abuse, which can be challenging both mentally and physically. They may face resistance from pet owners or community members and must balance enforcing laws with showing empathy. Effective communication, de-escalation skills, and staying up-to-date with animal welfare regulations are essential for success. Support from colleagues, ongoing training, and self-care practices also help officers manage the stresses of the job.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Humane Officers typically earn less than $3,000 per month, but jobs such as commercial truck drivers, sales representatives, or certain skilled trades like HVAC technicians can earn around $3,000 or more monthly without requiring a college degree. These roles often rely on on-the-job training, certifications, or licenses rather than formal higher education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Humane Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Humane Officer, you need knowledge of animal welfare laws, investigative techniques, and animal handling, often supported by certification in animal control or law enforcement. Familiarity with case management software, evidence collection tools, and basic veterinary care equipment is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, conflict resolution, and the ability to remain calm under stress help Humane Officers effectively interact with the public and handle sensitive situations. These skills are crucial for ensuring the humane treatment of animals, enforcing laws, and maintaining public trust.
More about Humane Officer jobs
What cities are hiring for Humane Officer jobs? Cities with the most Humane Officer job openings:
What states have the most Humane Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Humane Officer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Humane Officer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Humane Officer jobs are:
Humane Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Humane Officer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,929 per year, or $36.5 per hour.
Humane Officer

Humane Officer

Sioux Falls Area Humane Society

Sioux Falls, SD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Salary: $18

HUMANE OFFICER

Employment Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt
Reports To: Operations Director

SUMMARY

The Humane Officer promotes public safety, protects animal welfare, and ensures compliance with local ordinances and South Dakota Codified Laws. This position supports the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society's mission through community education, investigations, enforcement, animal care, and humane euthanasia when necessary.

Humane Officers serve as ambassadors of SFAHS while providing professional, compassionate animal management services. In addition to field responsibilities, this position supports the Behavior Team during periods of reduced call volume by assisting with enrichment, training, playgroups, and behavior programs that improve animal welfare and outcomes.

SFAHS CORE VALUES

Compassion Community Responsibility Innovation Inclusivity Transparency

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Law Enforcement & Compliance

Maintain knowledge of applicable laws, ordinances, and legal procedures.
Conduct investigations and enforce animal-related regulations.
Prepare reports and court testimony as required.
Participate in ongoing professional development and training.

Public Engagement & Communication

Educate the public on responsible pet ownership and animal-related regulations.
Provide professional customer service, conflict resolution, and community outreach.
Maintain accurate reports, records, and case documentation.

Enforcement & Investigation

Respond to calls for service and investigate animal welfare, public safety, and ordinance violations.
Collaborate with law enforcement and other agencies as needed.
Conduct animal bite investigations, quarantines, cruelty investigations, and related enforcement activities.
Safely handle domestic animals, wildlife, and exotic species.

Vehicle & Equipment Operation

Safely operate department vehicles and equipment.
Maintain vehicles, equipment, and supplies in a clean and operational condition.

Humane Euthanasia Procedures

Assist with wildlife euthanasia on an as-needed basis following established SFAHS protocols.
Perform euthanasia professionally, compassionately, and humanely.

Animal Care & Behavior Support

Assist with animal intake, care, cleaning, enrichment, vaccinations, and transportation as needed.
Support the Behavior Team through dog walking, enrichment, playgroups, training support, and behavioral observations.
Document and communicate behavioral progress to assist with treatment plans and program evaluation.
Assist with behavior-related initiatives when Humane Officer responsibilities are limited.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Confidentiality & Professional Conduct

Maintain strict confidentiality regarding investigations, animal welfare cases, medical information, personnel matters, and organizational operations.
Understand that much of the work performed in this position is confidential and may not be discussed outside official job responsibilities.
Exercise professionalism, sound judgment, and discretion in all interactions.
Failure to maintain confidentiality may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

COMPENSATION & SCHEDULE

Starting wage is $18.00 per hour, paid biweekly.

This position is primarily scheduled Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Humane Officers participate in a rotating on-call schedule. On-call duty covers the hours of5:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Officers are expected to respond to after-hours calls, emergencies, and animal-related incidents during their assigned on-call rotation.

On-call compensation includes a $25 nightly stipend, plus time-and-a-half pay for any after-hours calls that require a response.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or GED required.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Experience in animal care, animal control, law enforcement, veterinary medicine, shelter operations, or a related field preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS

Ability to lift and carry animals and equipment weighing 50 pounds or more.
Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in stressful situations.
Comfortable working with aggressive, fearful, injured, sick, deceased, or potentially dangerous animals.
Ability to work in shelter, office, residential, and outdoor environments.
Ability to safely handle domestic animals, wildlife, and exotic species.
Availability to work weekends, holidays, and a rotating on-call schedule.
Knowledge of animal welfare, behavior, law enforcement, or related fields preferred.

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS

Valid driver's license required.
Must be insurable under SFAHS vehicle insurance requirements and successfully pass a motor vehicle record review.

BENEFITS

Eligible full-time employees receive benefits effective the first day of the month following 30 days of employment, including:

Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Short-Term Disability
Long-Term Disability
Life and AD&D Insurance
Accident, Cancer, and Critical Illness Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
$50 Monthly Wellness Stipend
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Professional Development Opportunities
Employee Discounts

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

  • I understand that this position description is intended to provide a fairly comprehensive and accurate overview of the position, but it will not cover all aspects, details, or required tasks. Other functions, responsibilities, and requirements may be assigned, and this position description may be changed at the direction of the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society at any time.
  • I understand that this is not an employment contract and that both my employer and I may choose to end the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice.
  • I understand that if an offer of employment is made, I will be expected to complete a background check.
  • I will maintain confidentiality regarding all matters of the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society.
  • The Sioux Falls Area Humane Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, genetic information, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by South Dakota or federal law.
  • In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society will consider reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.
  • I understand that schedules, on-call rotations, duties, responsibilities, work assignments, and departmental priorities are subject to change based on operational and business needs.