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Humane Officer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Ohio Jobs

MCI CORRECTION OFFICER

Marion, OH · On-site

$25.61/hr

Correction Officer Organization: Rehabilitation & Correction - Marion Correctional Institution ... humane correctional environment and effective community supervision. Our goal is to protect the ...

Ohio Department of Taxation

Clerk 2 - OPOTA

Columbus, OH

$15 - $19.25/hr

Commission staff oversees training requirements and basic curriculum for peace officers, private security, local corrections, jail personnel, K-9 units, and humane agents, in addition to firearms ...

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Humane Officer information

See Ohio salary details

$22.3K

$72.2K

$173.5K

How much do humane officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for humane officer in Ohio is $72,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $93,600.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Humane Officer jobs in Ohio?

For Humane Officer jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Humane Officer jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Humane Officer jobs in Ohio are:

Humane Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Humane Officer job openings in Ohio 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 $72,185 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

Humane Agent

Cleveland Animal Protective League

Cleveland, OH

$23.59/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION
­­­­­­­
____________________________________________________________________________________
Job Title: Humane Agent
Department: Humane Investigations
Classification: Full time, hourly, non-exempt
Salary: $23.59 Hourly
Job Relationship: Reports to Chief Humane Investigator. May oversee assigned volunteers.
Position Summary: Serves as a humane agent and law enforcement representative for the APL in the prevention of cruelty and neglect to animals. Conducts investigations and assists in providing animal welfare education/awareness to the general public. Provides quality and ethical animal and people care in accordance with the APL’s mission, goal and management philosophy.
Revised: August 2021
____________________________________________________________________________________
Essential Job Functions
Conducts effective humane investigations
  • Educates the pet owning public on the responsibility, care, and humane treatment of animals in accordance with state, city, county, and federal laws. Effectively identifies need for education vs. animal seizure.
  • Conducts investigations in accordance with the requirements of the law and legal proceedings.
  • Follows up on notices that have been served to ensure compliance or issue summons for cases in violation of the state animal cruelty laws.
  • Maintains evidence and court documents for cases requiring prosecution.
  • Interfaces with animal control representatives and law enforcement personnel from the City of Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and neighboring communities.
  • Maintains confidential information regarding investigations and other APL operations.
  • Stays abreast of trends in the field; pursues educational opportunities.
  • Supports the APL’s desire to celebrate a diverse and inclusive culture that fuels the compassion that connects us to one another.
Safely handles and provides proper care to animals
  • Assesses proper handling of cases based on knowledge of animal breeds, husbandry needs, and care standards. Observes, appropriately identifies and responds to animal’s behavior and characteristics in order to take proper actions for the safety of the animal, self, and all others directly involved. Assures safe and proper handling of animals is maintained at all times.
  • Recognizes the presence of disease and/or injury and utilizes proper disease control measures in resolving cases and handling animals safely and humanely.
  • Communicates pertinent information to staff and monitors progress of impounded animals according to APL’s policies and procedures.
Responds to reports and calls about animals requiring assistance in a timely manner
  • Responds to reports and phone calls and conducts “on-site” investigations within 24 hours to determine the validity of the report and appropriate disposition.
  • Accurately prioritizes cases by level of urgency.
  • Utilizes appropriate tactics to resolve cases including potentially violent situations. Maintains a professional demeanor at all times.
  • Fulfills requirements of a humane agent under Ohio law as a mandated reporter for child abuse and neglect by notifying social services/child welfare agencies of potential concerns.
Accurately documents and reports all call response and humane investigations case activity in a timely manner
  • Produces and maintains timely, clear, complete, accurate written investigation logs and reports.
  • Accurately and completely enters case information into the case database in a timely manner.
  • Accurately utilizes forms and notices to assure successful prosecution if necessary.
  • Appropriately uses audio, video, and still camera equipment in the collection of evidence.
  • Collects, maintains, secures and documents evidence for cases in accordance with departmental policy and procedure and the law.
  • Assists Chief Humane Investigator with daily, weekly, monthly and annual reports.
Performs administrative functions to support humane investigations work
  • Answers phones, returns phone calls and records accurate information.
  • Responds to email requests and reports promptly.
  • Maintains library of educational materials and utilizes resources available in the department, including Cole Directory, Assessor’s Check, Map information, etc.
  • Assists in maintaining supplies required for the department.
  • Maintains orderly files.
Performs client service and public education
  • With supervisory approval, may give presentations, serve as a representative for the department at various APL events, and take individuals on educational, investigative ride-alongs.
  • Promptly notifies Chief Investigator and CEO of high profile situations amp;/or potential media case. Refers all media request to CEO.
  • Actively solicits financial support from clients and promotes APL programs, events, and services.
  • Actively supports and works cooperatively and collaboratively with other staff, department managers, and volunteers. Proactively provides relevant information on animals and cases.
  • Models “Compassion” core value behavior: Treats animals amp; people with respect, empathy, and kindness. Listens and responds to the needs of people who surrender animals to us, use our programs and services, support us, work and volunteer for us, and to other animal welfare organizations that turn to us for help.
  • Performs all responsibilities with utmost honesty, integrity and professionalism.
Ensures humane investigations vehicles, equipment, and supplies are maintained and ready to provide safe, productive, high quality animal care and handling
  • Works in cooperation with the Facilities Coordinator to monitor and maintain H.I. vehicles.
  • Operates APL vehicles in accordance with the law. Utilizes APL vehicles strictly for the performance of job duties.
  • Maintains equipment, tools and appliances in good working order and reports any malfunction, loss or breakage immediately.
Performs other duties as assigned including but not limited to:
  • Informs supervisor of special needs cases for potential public relations or direct mail pieces.
  • Takes immediate action to correct/report safety hazards; follows safety guidelines at all times.
  • Attends staff and community meetings as assigned.
  • Performs euthanasia of APL animals as assigned.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid Ohio Driver’s License and insurable driving record.
  • No felony or drug related criminal record.
  • Internal candidates must be in good standing
  • Two years of humane investigations experience strongly preferred. Minimally, three years of animal welfare, law enforcement, or other experience in a related field.
  • Certified euthanasia technician or ability to become certified within six months of hire
  • Post Hire: complete the 20-hour state-mandated training with curriculum as set by OPOTA, and passed the humane agent exam, and meet all eligibility requirements to be appointed by APL as a humane agent.
  • Fear Free Certified or must become certified within six months of hire
Knowledge and Skills
  • Working knowledge of judicial system and ability to interpret local, state, federal laws.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrated experience dealing with crisis situations, using effective communications and problem solving techniques and ability to diffuse high-stress and emotionally charged situations.
  • Demonstrated ability to control dangerous animals.
  • Ability to work in a fast-pace environment with a variety of people.
  • Ability to work with a computer in a Windows environment.
  • Detail oriented and able to prioritize and perform duties efficiently and effectively.
  • Committed to maintaining the Cleveland Animal Protective League’s high standard of animal care and mission to foster compassion and end animal suffering.
Working Conditions
Work is performed outside in all types of weather and in an animal shelter that operates seven days per week with exposure to animals, including some that may be unhealthy, contagious, or dangerous, exposure to high noise levels, zoonotic diseases, and cleaning agents. Subject to animal bites and scratches. Subject to exposure to potentially violent/dangerous situations. Must be able to detect and recognize animal behavior that is potentially dangerous. Frequently moves about the shelter, various outside areas, and various dwellings in order to interact with animals and the public. Regularly operates a computer and other office equipment in a shared office environment (i.e. calculator, copier, and printer). Frequently bends, lifts, stoops, walks. Frequently positions self to handle animals of all sizes in a variety of areas and positions (high spaces, low spaces, small spaces, etc.). Frequently positions self to drive vehicle and perform vehicle cleaning functions. Constantly communicates with the public, staff members and volunteers and must be able to exchange accurate information. Frequently lifts or moves animals weighing up to 75 pounds with reasonable accommodations. Occasionally moves or lifts animals more than 75 pounds with reasonable accommodations. Must be able to modify work schedule to meet APL operational needs. May be required to be “on call” and work non-standard hours as necessary. May be required to work overtime as necessary.
This position description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job related duties required by their supervisor. This document does not create an employment contract implied or otherwise, other than an “at-will” relationship.
Our Core Values
Compassion - We are compassion in action. We believe every animal and person has value and worth and should be treated with respect, empathy, and kindness to support the human-animal bond.
Advocacy - We are a voice for animals, dedicated to lifesaving solutions that advance their quality of life, and promote their place in society.
Leadership – We act with integrity, creativity, duty to community, and have the courage to change. These are the driving forces that make us a leading animal welfare organization.
Innovation – We are devoted to pioneering new approaches to the evolving challenges animals face by developing ethical, humane solutions and working in partnership with the public and animal welfare community.
Community – We continually strive to be a diverse and inclusive team and believe we must all work together to best fulfill our vision.
To learn more about the Cleveland APL please visit our website: https://clevelandapl.org/

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