Animal Control Workers
Handle animals for the purpose of investigations of mistreatment, or control of abandoned, dangerous, or unattended animals.
Common Job Titles
- Animal Control Officer
- Animal Enforcement Officer
- Animal Park Code Enforcement Officer
- Community Service Officer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate animal welfare situations for compliance with local ordinances and animal protection laws in field investigations of mistreatment, abandonment, or dangerous animals.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess risk levels and animal behavior when making decisions about capture methods and safety protocols under time pressure.Proficient
- MindsetReconcile public safety concerns with animal welfare principles when resolving conflicts and negotiating with community members about animal control issues.Proficient
- KnowledgeExplain animal control ordinances, licensing requirements, and responsible pet ownership to community members and stakeholders through public education initiatives.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate animal capture equipment including nets, catch poles, and tranquilizer guns in field settings with dangerous or unattended animals, following safety protocols.Developing
- Hands-onHandle animals of various species and temperaments using appropriate restraint techniques to ensure safety of both animal and handler.Developing
- MindsetEngage with distressed or confrontational members of the public using active listening and social perceptiveness to de-escalate emotionally charged situations.Developing
- KnowledgeApply law enforcement procedures and regulatory requirements when documenting investigations, issuing citations, and preparing reports for legal proceedings.Developing
- Hands-onOperate vehicles and mechanized equipment in diverse field environments to transport animals and access remote locations.Developing
- KnowledgeOperate animal shelter management software and database systems to record animal intakes, track cases, and maintain compliance documentation.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Animal Control Workers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
11,790
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $32,880. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,160. 50th percentile: U.S. $45,830. 75th percentile: U.S. $57,110. 90th percentile: U.S. $69,990. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $32,880 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $69,990 |
| Workers on average earn | $49,240 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.4/5
- Law and Government4.3/5
- Public Safety and Security4.0/5
- English Language3.6/5
- Administrative3.4/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Visio
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- ARK Software Ark Shelter Software
- Animal Shelter Manager
- CISCO Software ACS Animal Control System
- Esri ArcGIS
- Geographic information system GIS software
- Geographic information system GIS systems
- Multiple Options Animal Shelter Management System
- RescueConnection Software ShelterConntection
Tools & Equipment
- Animal cages
- Animal capture nets
- Animal catch poles
- Animal control shotguns
- Animal traps
- Bat excluders
- Blowguns
- Cable winches