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Public Health

Animal Control Worker

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

Annual openings

24

Median wage

$58,470

Typical education

High school (GED).

Growth 2026–2032

+14%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

High school (GED).

Credential requirement

A certification is valued by many employers.

Work experience

This is an entry-level role so no experience is required. However, full or part-time work experience developing the listed knowledge, skills and abilities is valued.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Automation exposure

Moderate exposure

Some routine tasks may shift as tools improve, but the role is likely to adapt.

A typical day

  1. Write reports of activities, and maintain files of impoundments and dispositions of animals.
  2. Contact animal owners to inform them that their pets are at animal holding facilities.
  3. Educate the public about animal welfare, and animal control laws and regulations.
  4. Remove captured animals from animal-control service vehicles and place animals in shelter cages or other enclosures.
  5. Answer inquiries from the public concerning animal control operations.
  6. Supply animals with food, water, and personal care.
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