Animal control workers
SOC Code: 33-9011Also known as:
ACO (Animal Control Officer), Animal Attendant, Animal Control Specialist, Animal Cop, Animal Cruelty Investigator
Median Annual Salary
$45,830
+3.9% growth (2024-2034)
1K
Openings/Year
12K
Current Jobs
What Animal control workers Do
Handle animals for the purpose of investigations of mistreatment, or control of abandoned, dangerous, or unattended animals.
💰 Salary
$45,830
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+3.9%
As fast as average
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
1K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
12,200
Projected Employment (2034)
12,700
Related Careers
Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers
$37,320 •
+8.7% growth
Fish and game wardens
$68,180 •
-6.0% growth
Police and sheriff's patrol officers
$76,290 •
+3.1% growth
Animal trainers
$38,750 •
+5.1% growth
Animal caretakers
$33,470 •
+12.1% growth
Top Skills Required
Active Listening
Speaking
Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Writing
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Write reports of activities, and maintain files of impoundments and dispositions of animals.
- Investigate reports of animal attacks or animal cruelty, interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and writing reports.
- Examine animals for injuries or malnutrition, and arrange for any necessary medical treatment.
- Contact animal owners to inform them that their pets are at animal holding facilities.
- Educate the public about animal welfare, and animal control laws and regulations.
- Remove captured animals from animal-control service vehicles and place animals in shelter cages or other enclosures.
- Answer inquiries from the public concerning animal control operations.
- Capture and remove stray, uncontrolled, or abused animals from undesirable conditions, using nets, nooses, or tranquilizer darts as necessary.
- Prepare for prosecutions related to animal treatment, and give evidence in court.
- Supply animals with food, water, and personal care.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
College Rankings
College rankings for this career path are being calculated. Check back soon!
Want this ranking as a spreadsheet? Investor Pro+ members can export any Repit table to CSV. See plans →
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do animal control workers make?
The median annual salary for animal control workers is $45,830.
What education do animal control workers need?
Most animal control workers positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Is becoming animal control workers a good career choice?
Animal control workers is projected to see +3.9% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 1,300 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for animal control workers?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to animal control workers?
Animal control workers may also be known as: ACO (Animal Control Officer), Animal Attendant, Animal Control Specialist, Animal Cop, Animal Cruelty Investigator, Animal Enforcement Officer, Animal Instructor Officer, Animal Officer, Animal Ordinance Enforcement Officer, Animal Park Code Enforcement Officer, Animal Rescuer, Animal Safety Officer, Animal Services Officer, Animal Treatment Investigator, Code Enforcement Inspector, Code Enforcement Officer, Code Enforcement Specialist, Community Service Officer, Control Officer, Dog Catcher.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.