Animal Control Officer

Salary: $25.00 - $27.57 per hour

About the role

This position, located within the Field Services Division of Animal Care and Control, is responsible for enforcing local and state animal control laws to ensure the safety of the public and the humane treatment of animals. Officers respond to a wide variety of calls, including cases of cruelty, neglect, and aggressive or stray animals. This role requires strong communication, independent judgment, and the ability to work in high-stress and emotionally charged environments. Officers may be required to work varying shifts, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Respond to calls from the public regarding animal-related incidents including cruelty, neglect, strays, or attacks
• Investigate animal cruelty and neglect cases, gather evidence, and prepare documentation for prosecution
• Enforce local and state animal control laws through warnings or citations
• Capture and transport stray, injured, aggressive, or abandoned animals
• Testify in court proceedings related to animal cruelty or ordinance violations
• Provide food, water, and basic care for animals in CMACC custody
• Clean and maintain animal transport vehicles, equipment, and facilities
• Educate the public on responsible pet ownership and animal control ordinances
• Maintain detailed records of impoundments, investigations, and animal outcomes
• Respond to inquiries from the public about animal laws, shelter services, or animal care
• Conduct inspections of animal-related establishments for licensing or ordinance compliance
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• One (1) year of related experience in animal care, enforcement, or a public-facing service role
• Must possess a valid North Carolina or South Carolina Driver’s License

Skills

• Knowledge of applicable state and local laws governing animal care and control
• Familiarity with court procedures, regulations, and compliance requirements
• Safe handling techniques for both small and large domestic and wild animals
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proficient in basic computer operations and clerical systems (e.g., recordkeeping, data entry)
• Ability to work independently using sound judgment in urgent and stressful situations
• Strong customer service skills with sensitivity to diverse populations
• Capable of following detailed procedures and conveying information clearly
• Adaptability to changing environments and ability to manage multiple responsibilities
• Ability to work rotating shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

Benefits

The City of Charlotte provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. Learn more about the City of Charlotte’s benefits.

Conditions of Employment

The City’s Background Check Policy requires background checks for final candidates, including reference checks, social security verification, education verification, criminal conviction record check, and, if applicable, credit history check, sex offender registry, and motor vehicle records check. Final candidates must pass a pre-employment drug-screening test and physical examination.