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Animal Care Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Seattle Humane

Animal Care Associate I

Bellevue, WA

$22.66/hr

We're fully staffed right now for out Animal Care Associate position but go ahead and apply-we'd love to connect for future openings! Non-Exempt role - Starting Wage: $22.66/hour BENEFITS: * Health ...

Maricopa

Animal Care Associate

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

We want you to be our next diligent Animal Care Associate, providing daily care and support for our shelter dogs. You'll be an advocate for dogs and promote the health, safety, and welfare of the ...

Maricopa County, AZ

Animal Care Associate

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18.50 - $30.50/hr

We want you to be our next diligent Animal Care Associate, providing daily care and support for our shelter dogs. You'll be an advocate for dogs and promote the health, safety, and welfare of the ...

Maricopa County

Animal Care Associate

Phoenix, AZ

$18.50 - $30.50/hr

We want you to be our next diligent Animal Care Associate, providing daily care and support for our shelter dogs. You'll be an advocate for dogs and promote the health, safety, and welfare of the ...

Seattle Humane

Animal Care Associate I

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$22.66/hr

We're fully staffed right now for out Animal Care Associate position but go ahead and apply-we'd love to connect for future openings! Non-Exempt role - Starting Wage: $22.66/hour BENEFITS: * Health ...

Louisiana SPCA

Animal Care Associate

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Animal Care Associate New Orleans Humane Law and Rescue is looking for a full-time Animal Care Associate to ensure that the highest level of care is provided to the animals in our shelter. This is a ...

Louisiana SPCA

Animal Care Associate

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Animal Care Associate New Orleans Humane Law and Rescue is looking for a full-time Animal Care Associate to ensure that the highest level of care is provided to the ...

Anti-Cruelty

ANIMAL CARE ASSOCIATE

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $20/hr

Animal Care Associate DEPARTMENT:Operations REPORTS TO:Operations Manager, Shelter Care STATUS:Non-Exempt GENERAL SUMMARY Under the direct supervision of the Operations Manager, the Animal Care ...

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Animal Care Associate information

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$8

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How much do animal care associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal care associate in the United States is $13.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.86 and $14.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Care Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Care Associate, you need a fundamental understanding of animal behavior, basic veterinary care, and safe handling techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with animal management software, cleaning and feeding equipment, and sometimes certifications in animal first aid are typically required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help foster positive animal interactions and effective teamwork. These competencies ensure the health, safety, and well-being of animals while maintaining smooth daily operations.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Animal Care Associates typically do not earn $10,000 a month without specialized experience or additional certifications. High-paying roles in fields like sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship can reach that level without a degree, but they often require strong skills, networking, and performance-based income. Most jobs with such high earnings usually demand significant experience, skills, or business ownership rather than entry-level positions.

What is the difference between Animal Care Associate vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAnimal Care AssociateVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, pet stores, kennelsVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal care facilities, shelters, pet storesVeterinary practices, animal hospitals
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Animal Care Associates typically perform basic animal handling, feeding, and cleaning duties in shelters or pet stores, often with minimal formal education. Veterinary Technicians have more advanced responsibilities, including assisting veterinarians with medical procedures, requiring specialized training and certification. Both roles involve working closely with animals, but Veterinary Technicians usually work in clinical settings with more technical tasks.

What is the highest paying job in animal care?

The highest paying roles in animal care typically include veterinary surgeons and specialized animal researchers, with veterinarians earning higher salaries due to advanced education and licensing requirements. Senior positions such as zoo directors or animal health specialists also offer higher compensation, often requiring extensive experience and advanced certifications.

What are Animal Care Associates?

Animal Care Associates are professionals responsible for the daily care and well-being of animals in various settings, such as animal shelters, veterinary clinics, zoos, or research facilities. Their duties typically include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring health and behavior, and assisting with basic medical care under supervision. They play a crucial role in ensuring that animals are comfortable, healthy, and safe. Good communication, attention to detail, and a genuine concern for animals are essential qualities for this role.

What is a pet care associate?

A pet care associate is a professional responsible for caring for animals in settings such as veterinary clinics, pet stores, or shelters. Their duties include feeding, grooming, administering medications, and monitoring animal health, often requiring knowledge of animal behavior and basic veterinary procedures.

What are some common challenges Animal Care Associates face, and how can they prepare for them?

Animal Care Associates often encounter challenges such as handling animals with varying temperaments, managing physically demanding tasks, and adhering to strict hygiene protocols. To prepare, it's beneficial to build strong observation skills, develop patience, and be comfortable working in fast-paced environments. Learning proper animal restraint techniques and maintaining clear communication with veterinarians and other team members can also make daily responsibilities more manageable and rewarding.

What jobs pay $400 an hour?

Animal Care Associates typically do not earn $400 an hour; such high rates are usually associated with specialized professions like medical specialists, corporate consultants, or high-level executives. Most animal care roles offer hourly wages significantly below that amount, often ranging from minimum wage to a few dozen dollars per hour depending on experience and location.
More about Animal Care Associate jobs
What cities are hiring for Animal Care Associate jobs? Cities with the most Animal Care Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Care jobs? The most popular types of Animal Care jobs are:
What states have the most Animal Care Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Care Associate jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animal Care Associate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Care Associate jobs are:
Animal Care Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Care Associate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,826 per year, or $13.9 per hour.
Animal Care Associate

Animal Care Associate

Humane Society of Summit County

Twinsburg, OH

Other

Posted 10 hours ago

Job description

Do you LOVE animals AND people?

The Humane Society of Summit County is accepting applications for Animal Care Associates. There is currently full-time, non-exempt positions available. You would be responsible for performing routine animal care and shelter related duties.Successful candidates will have a passion for working with animals and a flexible schedule (which includes weekends and holidays).The position is physically demanding.

Summary of Job

Responsible for daily cleaning and sanitation of shelter facility, including animal enclosures and public areas, feeding, care, medical and behavior observation, and daily enrichment of shelter animals.

Essential Functions

  • Performs daily cleaning and sanitizing of shelter areas, kennels, cages, yard and public areas following cleaning & disease control protocol, including spot cleaning throughout the day.
  • Feeds and provides daily enrichment to shelter animals in a safe and effective manner.
  • Reads and interprets animal care signage and accurately follows care instructions.
  • Does animal laundry and dishes throughout the day.
  • Follows all safety guidelines to ensure a safe work environment for staff and living environment for animals. Takes immediate action to address any safety concern or noncompliance of safety rules that could put an employee, volunteer, or the organization at risk.
  • Stocks areas and spot-cleans kennels and public areas throughout the day.
  • Promptly moves animals (adoption, isolation, quarantine, etc.) as instructed.
  • Keeps supervisor informed of animal behavior, health, or other concerns.
  • Maintains cleaning equipment, tools and appliances.
  • Provides professional visitor, staff, and volunteer care - with the highest standards of customer care and service. Conducts adoptions, provides adoption counseling/selection assistance, accurately enters computer data, and completes necessary paperwork.
  • Educates clients on responsible animal guardianship and animal care.
  • Assists with accepting in-kind donations.
  • Performs other duties and special projects as assigned.
Working Hours & Wage
  • This position is currently full-time (40+) hours per week, non-exempt
  • Entry level positions in Animal Care starting pay at 15.00 per hour

Apply