Humane Law Enforcement Officer

Loudoun County Government has been named one of Forbes' 2025 Best Large Employers! We’re proud to be recognized nationally for our commitment to employee satisfaction and excellence in public service. At Loudoun County, we bring together talented professionals from all backgrounds to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic, growing community — that’s The Loudoun Difference.

Welcome and thank you for your interest in employment with Loudoun County Government!

ALL SECTIONS OF THE APPLICATION MUST BE COMPLETED IN ITS ENTIRETY. THE RESUME IS CONSIDERED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ONLY. APPLICATIONS THAT ARE INCOMPLETE OR INDICATE 'SEE RESUME' WILL NOT BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION.

Introduction

Loudoun County Animal Services is looking for a new humane law enforcement officer (HLEO) to join our expanding team. Our officers receive comprehensive training (both classroom and in-field), take-home vehicles, competitive pay, exceptional benefits (including ongoing training, tuition reimbursement and pension) and support from a community of over 440,000 residents.

The humane law enforcement team works within the department of Animal Services to provide comprehensive responses to calls that include dogs running at large, routine investigations, complex felonies, wildlife rescue, animal hoarding, technical large animal rescue (of livestock) and much, much more.

Job Summary

The Humane Law Enforcement team responds to over 5,000 annual calls for service, resolving the majority of these cases with education and positive outcomes, while maintaining a monthly court schedule, in which more serious and complex cases are presented and prosecuted. Officers work with the Animal Services sheltering and veterinary teams to collect forensic evidence and work towards comprehensive resolutions to animal welfare matters in Loudoun County. Our HLEOs are armed, sworn, and an integral part of our community, as we focus on providing compassionate animal rescue, intake, and law enforcement initiatives.

Hiring salary commensurate with experience and interested applicants are recommended to provide a cover letter expressing their interest and qualifications in the position. Any questions are welcome to be sent to our team at animals@loudoun.gov but all applications and materials must be submitted through this posting.

Minimum Qualifications

Requires any combination of education and experience equivalent to high school diploma and 4 years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Criminal Justice or related field and/or equivalent experience in work involving animal welfare or the veterinary field.
• Experience with companion animals and livestock is essential. Prefer some experience with exotics and wildlife.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Spanish bilingual strongly preferred, with proficiency incentive available.

Job Contingencies and Special Requirements

• Humane Law Enforcement is a physically demanding occupation with the potential for exposure to infectious diseases, viruses, noxious fumes and chemicals, as well as risk of injury. A rabies pre-exposure vaccination series will commence immediately upon hire unless proof of prior vaccination is provided.
• Must have the ability to handle large and potentially dangerous animals over 100 pounds.
• Candidate will become a sworn Humane Law Enforcement Officer and will complete state mandated animal control training.
• Must obtain certification in euthanasia within six months of employment. Candidate will also be required to obtain certifications in CPR, First Aid, Incident Command System 100 & 200, and qualifications to use authorized firearms.