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Humane Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Jefferson Parish

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

Animal Control Officer 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

San Diego Humane Society

Dispatcher

San Diego, CA

$22 - $24.48/hr

The Dispatch team serves as a vital link for animals needing our help by dispatching Humane Officers when appropriate, and coordinating with local law enforcement and other emergency services. This ...

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 ...

San Diego Humane Society

Dispatcher

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22 - $24.48/hr

The Dispatch team serves as a vital link for animals needing our help by dispatching Humane Officers when appropriate, and coordinating with local law enforcement and other emergency services. This ...

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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 Aug 27, 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 is a humane officer?

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.

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

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.

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 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.

How much do humane officers make?

Humane officers typically earn a median annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Some positions may offer higher pay with specialized skills, certifications, or supervisory responsibilities.

How to become a humane officer?

To become a humane officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, experience with animal care, and knowledge of animal laws and welfare practices. Some jurisdictions require completion of training programs or certification, and applicants must pass background checks and demonstrate good communication skills. Licensing or registration may also be necessary depending on local regulations.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,929 per year, or $36.5 per hour.

Humane Officer, Sergeant

San Diego, CA • On-site

San Diego Humane Society
Non-Profits • 501 - 1,000 employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers

Learn more about San Diego Humane Societyexternal

$32.21 - $39.46/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

San Diego Humane Society is hiring full-time Sergeants for our Humane Law Enforcement team!
We are anticipating that this position may become available in the near future and are beginning the hiring process now to build a pipeline of qualified candidates. While the opening is contingent on a position becoming available in the near future, we are proactively reviewing applications and interviewing candidates to ensure we can move quickly if the role officially opens. If you are interested in being considered for this position, please submit your application at this time.
How you'll impact our mission:
At San Diego Humane Society, we're united by our mission to Inspire Compassion. Humane Officer Sergeants impact the lives of more than 40,000 animals each year by leading Officers and patrolling designated areas to enforce state laws and local ordinances, ensure humane treatment of animals, issue citations, investigate complaints involving animal neglect and/or cruelty, and educate the public regarding proper animal care.
This role delivers service at the gold standard level in alignment with the SDHS Way, to meet the needs of animals and the people who love them by leading with compassion, finding creative solutions, providing personalized care and building connections. If you're passionate about making an impact in the animal welfare movement, we'd love to talk to you.
What's in it for you?
At SDHS, we're proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and commit to being a place where every person - staff, volunteer, and guest - can feel a sense of belonging. We support and invest in employees through conscious delivery of benefits and a workplace environment based on our Core Values.
As an employee you'll enjoy:
  • Competitive pay and paid time-off (including your Birthday Day Off!)
  • Comprehensive benefits package, training and well-being programs
  • 403(b) retirement plan with 5% match after 1 year
  • Free pet adoptions, pet vaccines and spay/neuter services
  • ...and so much more!

What you'll do:
  • Provide leadership to officers within their assigned campus, ensuring appropriate documentation and departmental procedures are followed for all cases
  • Be responsible for assisting with all aspects of selection, training, evaluating, and disciplining Humane Officers in cooperation with the Operations and Administrative Captain and Chief of HLE
  • Ability to perform all Officer duties and responsibilities including enforcement of animal-related ordinances in contracting jurisdictions as well as other contractual services
  • Humanely handle, capture, restrain, confine and/or transport domestic animals and wildlife using proper humane equipment, methods, and techniques
  • Investigate and enforce animal cruelty laws and all activities associated therewith
  • Take animals under protective custody as evidence in crimes
  • Issue Citations, prepare and execute search warrants and arrest warrants, prepare cases for filing criminal charges with City Attorney/District Attorney
  • Analyze situations and apply established procedures and good judgment to enforce animal related laws
  • Utilize tact, judgment and strategy in dealing with a wide variety of people, both friendly and hostile
  • Explain and demonstrate proper animal care to a diverse group of people in the public service arena

What we're looking for:
  • AA degree or equivalent experience required, preferably in Administration of Justice or related field of study.
  • Two (2) years of animal control, law enforcement or investigations experience required.
  • One (1) year of supervisor experience strongly preferred.
  • Training specified in subparagraph (D) and the basic training for a Level 2 Reserve Officer by the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training or completed an approved police powers program (832 Penal Code) required.
  • Must also satisfy the requirements of Section 1029, 1030, and 1031 of the Government Code.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and be approved by SDHS insurance carrier to drive a company or personal vehicle for work purposes.

Location & Hours: Based at our San Diego Campus, with expected travel to all campuses and across San Diego County. This position works a 4/10 Alternative Work Schedule.
Pay: Starting range is between $32.21 - $39.46 per hour and is eligible for an hourly bilingual-Spanish premium.
The listed hiring range for this position depicts the target range of pay rates for candidates. The maximum of the hiring range is reserved for candidates with the highest qualifications and relevant experience. Compensation for internal candidates may increase beyond the listed range based on performance over time.
For all candidates, the actual starting pay rate is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to your years of related education and experience, internal pay equity, and position location.
To learn more about our benefits and perks, click here.

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