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Animal Care Associate Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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Animal Care Associate information

See Colorado salary details

$7

$13

$32

How much do animal care associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal care associate in Colorado is $13.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.28 and $14.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animal care associate?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be an animal care associate?

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 challenges do 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Animal Care jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Animal Care jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Animal Care Associate jobs in Colorado?

For Animal Care Associate jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Animal Care Associate jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Animal Care Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal Care Associate job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,135 per year, or $13 per hour.

Animal Care Associate- Refuge Springfield, Co. Location

Springfield, CO โ€ข On-site

The Wild Animal Sanctuary
Non-Profitsย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$62K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Animal Care Associate –Refuge Springfield, Co. 

*Must reside in the Lamar, Co, La Junta, Co, Springfield, Co, Pritchett, Co. AREA


Location: Springfield, CO. 81073

Status: Exempt Full-Time – Entry Level

Salary: Annual- Starting at $62,500

Primary Function:  Ranch Hand Laborer/Feeding/Driving/Animal Care Operation

Direct Supervisor: Executive Director

Open: Until-Filled

Benefits: After a 60 Day Probationary Period Medical, Dental, and Vision is offered

Organization Overview:

Our Non-Profit Organization has a positive mission and team environment!

If you have you have a strong work ethic, a passion to contribute to a great cause, and experience with grounds maintenance, then apply for our Operations Associate position today. 


The Wild Animal Refuge is a place where motivated individuals can immerse themselves into a dedicated community, working side by side to provide a safe-haven for rescued animals to live out the rest of their lives with dignity and respect. We are located on 10,000 acres near Springfield, CO. 81073. What a great opportunity to work for a cause!

We are so much more than a workplace. We are a team committed to service, to bettering our communities, and the world.

Job Summary:

Ranch Hand Laborer 20% Feeding/Animal Care Operation 50% Driving 10%

Perform other Job Duties as assigned 20%

With the guidance and under supervision of the Executive Director and Animal Care Supervisor, the Animal Care Associate will execute day to day functions regarding animals, feeding, water haul, food haul, diet and nutrition, driving around property with supplies, perform all duties in a safe manner while following company protocol, custodial, sustainability, and long-term equipment care. Perform other related job duties as assigned. 

 Minimum Job Requirements:

  • 1-2 years of work Ranch Hand work experience or in related field preferred
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Valid Colorado Drivers License
  • Own vehicle for transportation to and from work

Required/Other Qualifications:

  • Have a satisfactory driving record
  • Lives locally (No on-site provisions)
  • Reliable source of transportation to and from work
    Solid understanding in field operations
    Ability to liaise with other departments to achieve a common goal
  • Able to lift 75lbs or more

Functions/Job Duties: (including but not limited to):

  • Exercising sound independent judgement within general policy guidelines
  • Perform routine animal care
  • Able to lift 75lbs or more, physical abilities needed to complete the job: lifting and carrying heavy materials such as; furniture, equipment, and tools. Some tasks involve; climbing, crawling, and stooping to reach. Need to be able to; pull, push or manipulate heavy objects against resistance, work outdoors in temperature extremes and inclement weather. This work is performed in outdoors, inclement weather, heat of the summer, and Carnivore Nutrition Center/Shop
  • Performing seasonal cleaning and/or routine light maintenance
    Able to maintain confidentiality; demonstrates sound judgement and discretion


Personal Characteristics:

  • Self-motivated, productive, and results-oriented
  • Keeping an organized and tidy workspace
  • Flexible, ability to adapt to change and shifting priorities and to work simultaneously on a variety of complex projects
  • Teamwork orientated with ability to work independently
  • Patient, a good listener, and a heart for animals
  • Desire to learn, grow, and be coached
  • Contribute to a positive culture

As you can see, we are looking for people who possess strong foundational skills with an attitude to succeed. If you are looking for a challenging and a rewarding service opportunity with real purpose, you have found the right opportunity! 

Clear Focus:

The above Job Description is intended to describe the general duties/nature of the level of work being performed by the Animal Care Associate. This Job Description is not to be constructed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, and skills required. Job Descriptions are somewhat fluid and will change depending on the Organization’s strategic direction and overall objectives accordingly.


Background Check Statement: 

Approval for Hiring is contingent upon successfully passing a background check prior to your Hiring/Acceptance/Offer. This background check does not report to any credit bureau and no impact will be seen on the applicants side. This process helps the Company screen for any past background experiences that pose a threat or a discrepancy to the Organization, as TWAS does not hire any violent offenders, or individuals that have been charged criminally involving endangering/threating/hurting children and/or animals. By applying you are authorizing the The Wild Animal Sanctuary to perform this background check.

EEOC Statement:

Our Non-Profit organization, "The Wild Animal Sanctuary-Refuge" is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.