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Law & Government

Animal Control Workers

Handle animals for the purpose of investigations of mistreatment, or control of abandoned, dangerous, or unattended animals.

Median salary (BLS)

$45,660

10th–90th percentile (BLS)

$33k – $68k

Job outlook

+4% (faster than average)

AI exposure

Plan a path to Animal Control Workers

Education

Typical entry: No degree required

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How to qualify

EstimateLicense required

Cost to qualify

$200–$5,150

Time to qualify

1 yr

Renewal

  1. 1

    High school diploma or GED

    Course

    Expected by most employers; if you need the GED, test fees run $0–$150 depending on the state.

    $0–$150 · 3 months · varies by state source

  2. 2

    On-the-job training

    Experience

    Employer-provided and typically paid — days to a few months for most no-degree roles.

    Cost varies · 3 months source

  3. 3

    Bar exam / state licensure / academy

    License

    Lawyers: the state bar exam. Public-safety roles: a training academy plus state certification.

    $200–$5,000 · 6 months · varies by state source

Estimated typical U.S. route for "Animal Control Workers" — built from BLS education requirements and College Board 2024–25 average published prices (public, in-state tuition + fees + books). Not yet verified against a specific state's licensing rules — confirm with your state licensing board or program.

Typical progression

  1. Junior Animal Control Workers

    Entry / Junior

    $33,090

    ~2 yrs to advance

  2. Animal Control Workers

    Established

    $45,660

    ~3 yrs to advance

  3. Senior Animal Control Workers

    Senior

    $56,865

Key skills

A typical day

  • 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.

Fields of study

Any field

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