Animal Control Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern era, the demand for Animal Control Workers has never been more pressing.

As populations grow, and our interaction with the animal kingdom intensifies, so does the need for skilled professionals who can manage, protect, and ensure the welfare of our animal neighbors.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Animal Control Worker?

Whether you are:

A job seeker trying to grasp the full scope of this role,
A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
Or simply fascinated by the duties of animal control,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Animal Control Worker job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Contents show

Animal Control Worker Duties and Responsibilities

Animal Control Workers are responsible for handling animals that may pose a danger to humans or are in a situation that could potentially harm them.

They are often tasked with capturing and impounding dangerous or stray domestic animals.

The duties and responsibilities of an Animal Control Worker may include:

Responding to calls concerning stray, injured, or neglected animals
Capturing and impounding dangerous or stray domestic animals
Investigating reports of animal cruelty or neglect
Inspecting establishments that house animals for compliance with animal welfare laws and regulations
Testing animals for diseases and administering vaccines
Euthanizing severely injured, sick, or unadoptable animals in a humane manner
Preparing reports on animal control activities
Conducting educational programs on responsible pet ownership
Transporting animals to shelters or veterinary clinics for further care and treatment

Animal Control Worker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Animal Control Worker to ensure the welfare of animals within our community.

You will be responsible for responding to calls, capturing stray or dangerous animals, investigating cases of animal cruelty, and enforcing relevant laws and ordinances.

Successful candidates should have a deep respect for animals and a strong commitment to animal welfare.

A background in animal care or law enforcement would be advantageous.

Responsibilities

Responding to calls and complaints about stray, dangerous, or abused animals
Patrolling public areas to monitor animal behavior and ensure public safety
Capturing and impounding dangerous or stray animals
Investigating cases of animal cruelty and neglect
Enforcing local and national animal control laws and regulations
Preparing reports on animal behavior and condition, as well as actions taken
Educating the public about animal welfare and local animal control laws
Providing basic care for animals in shelters
Ensuring cleanliness and hygiene standards in animal shelters

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent
Proven experience in animal care or law enforcement is advantageous
Ability to handle animals safely and humanely
Knowledge of local and national animal control laws
Strong communication and public relation skills
Ability to handle physically demanding work, including lifting heavy animals and equipment
Valid driver’s license
Ability to pass a background check and drug test

Benefits

Health insurance
Dental insurance
Retirement plan
Paid time off
Training and development opportunities

Additional Information

Job Title: Animal Control Worker
Work Environment: This role involves both field and office work. Field work includes exposure to all weather conditions and potentially dangerous animals.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Animal Control Supervisor.
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
Employment Type: Full-time
Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does an Animal Control Worker Do?

Animal Control Workers primarily work for local governments and animal rescue organizations.

They play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both animals and human residents within a community.

Their primary responsibility involves handling animals that can be a threat to human safety, are sick or injured, or are considered stray, wild, or abandoned.

This may require them to capture and impound dangerous or stray animals using appropriate equipment and techniques.

Animal Control Workers also investigate cases of animal cruelty, rescue trapped animals, and return lost pets to their owners.

They might also need to euthanize severely injured, sick, or unadoptable animals in a humane manner.

In addition to handling animals, they inspect various properties to ensure that they comply with the animal licensing laws and regulations.

They issue warnings and citations to owners who violate these laws.

Animal Control Workers also educate the public about responsible pet ownership, including the importance of spaying and neutering pets, vaccinating them against diseases, and maintaining appropriate pet behavior.

Finally, they often have to testify in court regarding animal-related cases, prepare reports on their activities, and respond to inquiries from the public.

Animal Control Worker Qualifications and Skills

An effective Animal Control Worker should have a range of specific qualifications and skills, such as:

An understanding of animal behavior to enable safe handling of animals of different species, temperaments, and sizes.
Customer service and interpersonal skills to deal professionally and respectfully with the public, including pet owners, who might be upset or distressed.
Physical fitness to capture and control animals, including those that are scared, angry, or injured, which may involve running, climbing, or lifting heavy weights.
Attention to detail to ensure accurate record-keeping of incidents, animal information, and any actions taken.
Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and policies related to the care and treatment of animals.
Problem-solving skills to assess different situations and decide on the best course of action, such as choosing the most appropriate and humane way to capture an animal.
Communication skills to inform and educate the public about animal control regulations and responsible pet ownership, as well as to liaise effectively with other professionals such as veterinarians, law enforcement officers, and animal shelter staff.
Ability to work under pressure in potentially stressful situations, remaining calm and professional at all times.

Animal Control Worker Experience Requirements

Animal Control Workers usually have a high school diploma or an equivalent degree.

Some of them might have a degree in animal science or a related field, but it isn’t strictly necessary.

Many animal control workers begin their career by volunteering or working at an animal shelter, a veterinarian’s office, or a rescue agency.

This hands-on experience with animals is extremely valuable as it helps them to understand animal behavior, learn how to handle animals, and become familiar with the laws and regulations related to animal control.

For entry-level positions, candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience or less, often acquired through part-time roles or internships in animal shelters, vet clinics, or pet rescue centers.

They may also have experience in law enforcement or customer service, which can be beneficial when interacting with the public.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have proven skills in handling a wide variety of animals and dealing with difficult situations such as aggressive animals or distressed pet owners.

They may also have experience in conducting investigations, rescuing distressed animals, and educating the public about animal control laws and regulations.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may be ready for a supervisory or managerial role within an animal control department.

They may have experience in leading teams, developing and implementing policies and procedures, and managing budgets.

They may also have advanced knowledge of local and state laws related to animal control, and may have received specialized training in areas such as wildlife management or exotic animals.

Animal Control Worker Education and Training Requirements

Animal Control Workers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

Some states require animal control workers to complete a post-secondary education program in animal control or a related field.

These programs provide training in animal behavior, animal care, and first aid, as well as how to handle and capture animals.

Animal Control Workers should also have experience in handling animals, which can be gained through internships, volunteer work, or jobs at veterinary clinics, animal shelters, or rescue centers.

Most states require Animal Control Workers to be certified.

Certification criteria vary but typically involve completing a training program and passing an examination.

The National Animal Care & Control Association offers certification programs that are recognized in many states.

Some positions may require additional training, such as in law enforcement, if the role includes enforcing local and state laws related to animals.

Continuing education is important in this field to stay informed about new developments in animal care and control techniques.

Many workers also pursue advanced training or degrees in fields such as animal science or veterinary technology to enhance their career prospects.

Animal Control Worker Salary Expectations

An Animal Control Worker can expect to earn an average salary of $38,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings may differ depending on factors such as the level of experience, the specific location of the job, and the particular organization that employs them.

Animal Control Worker Job Description FAQs

What qualifications do Animal Control Workers need?

Animal Control Workers usually need a high school diploma or equivalent.

However, some jobs may require a postsecondary degree in animal science or a related field.

Many states require Animal Control Workers to complete training programs and obtain certification.

What are the daily duties of an Animal Control Worker?

Animal Control Workers are responsible for investigating reports of animal abuse or neglect, capturing stray or dangerous animals, and returning them to their owners or shelters.

They also inspect pet shops, zoos, and kennels for adherence to animal welfare laws.

In some cases, they may need to assist in euthanizing sick or injured animals.

What qualities make a good Animal Control Worker?

A good Animal Control Worker should have a genuine concern for the welfare of animals.

They should be patient, compassionate, and able to handle stressful situations.

They must also be physically fit to capture and restrain animals, and have good problem-solving skills to investigate cases of animal cruelty.

What should you look for in an Animal Control Worker resume?

Look for experience working with animals, such as volunteering at animal shelters or working in veterinary clinics.

Certification from a recognized animal control program is also a plus.

Physical fitness and the ability to work in various weather conditions is essential.

It would also be beneficial if they have good communication skills, as they may need to interact with distressed animal owners or testify in court.

Is a license required to be an Animal Control Worker?

In many states, Animal Control Workers need to be licensed.

The requirements vary by state but often include completion of a training program and passing a written exam.

Some states may also require background checks.

Is it challenging to hire Animal Control Workers?

It can be challenging to find Animal Control Workers who possess the right balance of empathy for animals and the physical ability to manage potentially dangerous situations.

Moreover, this role often involves working under challenging conditions, which may not appeal to all candidates.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we unraveled the reality of what it truly means to be an Animal Control Worker.

Guess what?

It’s not just about rescuing animals.

It’s about safeguarding our community, one animal rescue at a time.

With our in-depth Animal Control Worker job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your next move.

But don’t stop there.

Go the extra mile with our job description generator. It’s your pathway to creating precise job listings or polishing your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every animal saved is a stride towards a safer community.

Let’s create that future. Together.

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Animal Control Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

Animal Control Worker Duties and Responsibilities