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Animal Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Petco

Animal Care Specialist

Smithfield, RI · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Participate in animal and aquatic-related physical inventory counts. * Assist with opening and closing procedures as assigned. * Perform additional duties and special projects as needed to support ...

Petco

Animal Care Specialist

Smithfield, RI

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Participate in animal and aquatic-related physical inventory counts. * Assist with opening and closing procedures as assigned. * Perform additional duties and special projects as needed to support ...

Brown University Health

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$41K - $68K/yr

... animal response and collecting data during the experiment. Performs minor surgery on research ... May use computer programming to assist in data analysis. Reviews literature pertaining to research ...

Brownhealth

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$41K - $68K/yr

Calibrates and sets up equipment to be used in monitoring animal response and collecting data ... May use computer programming to assist in data analysis.Reviews literature pertaining to research ...

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Animal Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$7

$14

$28

How much do animal assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal assistant in Rhode Island is $14.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.57 and $15.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animal assistant?

Animal Assistants are professionals who help care for animals in a variety of settings, such as veterinary clinics, animal shelters, pet boarding facilities, and research labs. Their duties typically include feeding, grooming, exercising, and monitoring animals, as well as cleaning enclosures and assisting veterinarians or other animal care specialists. They play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of animals, and may also interact with pet owners and assist with administrative tasks. To become an Animal Assistant, a love for animals, attention to detail, and good communication skills are essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Assistant, you need a basic understanding of animal care, handling, and health, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant coursework. Familiarity with animal restraint techniques, cleaning protocols, and sometimes specialized software for record-keeping is typically required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you provide quality care and work effectively with both animals and their owners. These skills ensure the safety, health, and well-being of animals while maintaining efficient operations in veterinary or animal care settings.

What are some common challenges animal assistants face in their daily work, and how can they prepare for them?

Animal Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing the stress and unpredictability of working with a variety of animals, handling physically demanding tasks, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. They may also need to communicate effectively with veterinarians, pet owners, or other staff members, which requires patience and strong interpersonal skills. To prepare, candidates should develop resilience, maintain physical fitness, and seek training in animal behavior and handling techniques, as well as familiarize themselves with the specific procedures of their workplace.

What is the difference between Animal Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAnimal AssistantVeterinary Technician
CredentialsNone required or basic certificationsLicensed or certified, often requiring an associate degree
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, pet clinics, grooming facilitiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research labs
Job DutiesAssist with animal care, cleaning, feeding, basic handlingPerform medical tests, assist in surgeries, administer medications
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal shelters, pet stores, grooming salonsVeterinary practices, animal hospitals, research institutions

Animal Assistants typically focus on basic animal care and support roles, often with minimal formal credentials. Veterinary Technicians have more advanced responsibilities, including medical procedures, requiring certifications or licenses. Both roles work closely with animals but differ significantly in training, duties, and work settings.

What do you need to be an animal assistant?

To become an animal assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, experience working with animals, and good communication skills. Knowledge of animal care, basic veterinary procedures, and the ability to handle animals safely are important. Some positions may require certifications in pet first aid or animal handling.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Animal jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Animal Assistant jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Animal Assistant job openings:

Animal Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Assistant job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,512 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Animal Care Assistant- Entry Level (Weekends)

ShotVet

Lincoln, RI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

???? Animal Care Assistant (Weekend Mobile Clinic) – No Experience Needed!

???? Location: Lincoln, RI (Traveling is required)
???? Schedule: Friday–Sunday
???? Pay: Competitive Hourly Rate + Bonus Opportunities
???? Experience: No experience required – Paid training provided

Love animals? Start your career in veterinary care with ShotVet helping veterinarians provide affordable pet vaccine and wellness clinics for dogs and cats.

What You’ll Do

  • Assist veterinarians during pet vaccine clinics

  • Handle and comfort dogs and cats

  • Help with check-in, paperwork, and client support

  • Support clinic setup and breakdown

Requirements

  • Valid driver’s license required and HS Diploma or GED

  • Comfortable handling dogs and cats; Highly Preferred - existing knowledge in Preventative Wellness for pets

  • Able to lift up to 40 lbs

  • Reliable and team-oriented

Perfect For

  • Students interested in veterinary medicine

  • Future Veterinary Assistants / Vet Techs

  • Anyone looking for an entry level animal care job

  • Those who like to travel!

Apply today to gain hands-on experience helping pets stay healthy.