Animal Control Officer

Wake County Government • Raleigh, NC

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The primary responsibility of the Animal Control Officer is to respond to animal related calls and complaints and perform duties in compliance with all local ordinances and State Statutes. Wake County Animal Control is part of Wake County Animal Services and The Wake County Animal Center team. The Wake County Animal Center is an open-admission animal shelter operated by Wake County. We receive all stray, abandoned and surrendered pets in Wake County. We work to treat and rehome thousands of homeless animals every year through adoption, our foster program, volunteer program, transfer program and other community partners. Wake County Animal Control works closely with the Wake County Animal Center staff, including the Veterinary and Animal Health Care teams. The Animal Control department strives to serve the community with professional solutions to animal related concerns.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• One year of experience in animal control or veterinary-related work
• Valid Driver's License and "safe" driving record
• Certified Euthanasia Technician (CET) - must pass test/exam within 6 months of employment
• Certified Rabies Vaccinator (CRV) - must pass test/exam within 6 months of employment
• Equivalent education and experience are accepted

Nice To Haves

• 3 or more years in the Animal Control or equivalent field
• Knowledge and use of “CAD” system
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Bachelor’s degree

Responsibilities

• All tasks related to the care, control, and licensing of animals within Wake County
• Answer/respond to calls and complaints
• Conduct investigations of abuse, cruelty, neglect animal bites, and dangerous dogs
• Educate and assist the public with animal related concerns
• Collect evidence and write detailed reports
• Set traps for dogs and cats
• Pull on call for afterhours emergency calls
• Work with other county and local law enforcement agencies
• Complete all assigned training and required certifications to ensure compliance, safety, animal welfare, and animal control standards are met
• Prepare cases for criminal and civil court and testify as needed

Benefits

• The County’s FY2027 General Fund budget is approximately $2.28 billion, and the County has more than 5,000 full time employees.
• Wake County Government came in at #2 on the Healthiest Employers list for 2024.
• This year, US News & World Report ranked Raleigh #5 on its list of Best Places to Live, and the Milken Institute ranked Raleigh #1 on its 2025 list of Best-Performing Cities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED