Animal Control Officer I

Collier County strives to be an employer of choice, and many of our employees build long-term careers with us. The salary listed in the job description reflects the full pay range for this position, from entry level through advanced career stages.

NEW EMPLOYEES ARE HIRED AT, OR NEAR THE ENTRY POINT SHOWN, DEPENDING ON QUALIFICATIONS AND RELEVANT EXPERIENCE.

• Who We’re Looking For

  Are you passionate about animal welfare and public service? Do you stay calm in unpredictable situations, thrive in the outdoors, and believe every animal deserves a chance at safety and care? If so, we’d love to meet you.

  We’re looking for a dedicated Animal Control Officer to join our team — someone who’s not afraid to get their hands dirty (or fur-covered) to protect animals and people. This role isn’t just about catching strays — it’s about making a real difference in our community.

  What You’ll Do

  You’ll be on the frontlines, responding to animal-related emergencies, enforcing local and state ordinances, and helping to educate the public about responsible pet ownership. No two days are the same — one day you might be investigating the many aspects of a cruelty case, and the next, you’re corralling livestock or picking up abandoned animals from the side of the road.

  Here’s a snapshot of your day-to-day:

  • Patrol neighborhoods and respond to calls about stray, injured, abused, or dangerous animals.
  • Investigate animal bites, welfare complaints, and violations of animal control laws as well as various other codes and ordinances.
  • Capture and transport animals humanely (including the use of traps or handling tools).
  • Provide basic medical care or emergency transport for injured animals.
  • Enforce licensing, vaccination, and permitting regulations.
  • Educate the community on animal safety, adoption, ordinances, and pet care.
  • Assist with public events, emergency responses (hurricanes, fires, etc.), and disaster preparedness for animals.
  • Maintain accurate records in our database system.

  • Permit & Licensing Responsibilities

    You’ll also play a key role in ensuring animal-related businesses and residents stay compliant with county regulations by:

    • Conducting inspections of breeders, shelters, rescues, rodeos, and more.
    • Issuing citations and/or notice of violation (NOV).
    • Helping run off-site vaccination/licensing events.
    • Following up on non-compliance through outreach, notices, and field visits.

  • What We Need From You

    Must-Haves:

    • High school diploma or GED.
    • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
    • Strong communication and conflict-resolution skills.
    • The ability to write complete and detailed reports.
    • Comfortable handling all types of animals — from friendly pups to scared ferals.
    • A passion for public service, animal welfare, and doing the right thing — even when it’s hard.

  • Nice-to-Haves:

    • Previous experience in animal control, animal shelter, veterinary, code enforcement, or law enforcement work.
    • Knowledge of state/local animal laws, animal handling procedures, and rabies control protocols.
    • Certification in euthanasia (or willingness to obtain).

  • Perks & Benefits

    • Competitive pay & benefits
    • Ongoing training and certification opportunities
    • A supportive team that’s passionate about animals
    • The chance to change lives — both human and animal

  • Ready to Make a Difference?

    We’re not just enforcing laws — we’re building a safer, kinder community. If you have the heart, grit, and compassion to serve both animals and citizens, we want you on our team.

    Apply today and be the voice for those who can’t speak for themselves.

• High school diploma or GED required.
• One (1) year of related experience.
• Fingerprinting required.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATES

• Must obtain and maintain state certification in Animal Control and Euthanasia Injection within six (6) months from date of hire.
• May be required to attain and maintain other certifications as related to this position.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver’s License with any applicable endorsement(s) to drive a County vehicle as provided in CMA 5805.

• Salary offers above the minimum pay grade may be considered based on qualifications.
• Essential Employees may be required to work during an undeclared or declared emergency. The County’s Administrative Office will determine who will be required to work on an incident-by-incident basis.
• This job posting is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with the position.