Animal Control Officer - Full-time - PAWS

Rutherford-County-Government; Murfreesboro (TN); On-site; USD 45,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Pension plan

401(k) plan

Student loan forgiveness

Vacation leave

Holiday pay

EAP

Job summary

Rutherford County Government is seeking an Animal Control Officer I/II to respond to calls involving stray, injured, or potentially dangerous animals. This on-site, full-time role emphasizes humane handling, enforcement of ordinances, and community safety across Rutherford County.

Core duties include responding to animal incidents, transporting animals, and documenting cases. The position requires a valid driver’s license and strong communication skills to educate residents and cooperate with

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a county vehicle.
• Comfort working outdoors in varied conditions and around unpredictable animals.
• Clear communication, sound judgment, and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to de-escalate situations respectfully with the public.
• Willingness to learn relevant laws, policies, and safe handling practices.

Responsibilities

• Capturing and transporting animals safely.
• Conducting field investigations and documenting incidents.
• Educating residents on responsible pet ownership and compliance.
• Assisting with shelter intake processes.
• Maintaining accurate reports and equipment.

Skills

Driver's license

County vehicle operation

Outdoor work readiness

Clear communication

Judgment and attention to detail

De-escalation

Willingness to learn laws

Job description

Annual Salary Range: Animal Control Officer I - $45,492 - $48,822

Annual Salary Range: Animal Control Officer II - $48,223 - $51,751

As an Animal Control Officer with PAWS, you'll help protect Animals and support a safer, healthier community impact across Rutherford County. This Full-time, onsite role responds to calls involving stray, injured, or potentially dangerous animals and ensures humane handling and enforcement of applicable ordinances.

Key responsibilities include capturing and transporting animals safely; conducting field investigations and documenting incidents; educating residents on responsible pet ownership and compliance; assisting with shelter intake processes; and maintaining accurate reports and equipment.

Required qualifications/skills:
- Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a county vehicle
- Comfort working outdoors in varied conditions and around unpredictable animals
- Clear communication, sound judgment, and strong attention to detail
- Ability to de-escalate situations respectfully with the public
- Willingness to learn relevant laws, policies, and safe handling practices

Benefits:

• Health, Dental, Vision Insurance Program
• Fully Funded Pension with Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System
• 401(k), Roth 401(k) and 457b Additional Retirement Saving Options
• Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program
• Vacation and Sick Leave Accrual
• Holiday Pay
• Employee Assistance Program

Our Commitments

To promote and increase efficiency and responsiveness for the residents of Rutherford County.
To provide fair and equal opportunity to all qualified applicants who apply for employment with Rutherford County based only on demonstrated merit and fitness as ascertained through fair and practical methods of selection.
To develop a program of recruitment and advancement that presents Rutherford County in a professional manner in terms of career interest and encouragement.
To establish and promote high morale among employees by providing professional working relationships, a uniform personnel policy, opportunity for advancement, and consideration for the employee's needs and desires.
To adhere to the highest standards of honesty, integrity, and ethical behavior in working with our citizens, vendors, and employees.