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Animal Care Associate Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

VCA Animal Hospitals

Animal Care Specialist

Coconut Creek, FL · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

We are seeking an experienced Animal Care Attendant to join our team. The successful candidate will ... If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into ...

VCA Animal Hospitals

Animal Care Specialist

Coconut Creek, FL · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

We are seeking an experienced Animal Care Attendant to join our team. The successful candidate will ... If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into ...

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Animal Care Associate information

See Florida salary details

$6

$11

$27

How much do animal care associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal care associate in Florida is $11.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $7.85 and $11.87 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 Florida?

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Animal Care Associate jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Care Associate jobs in Florida are:

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

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

Animal Care Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Care Associate job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $22,962 per year, or $11 per hour.

Animal Care/Senior Animal Care Associates

Naples, FL • On-site

Patty Baker Humane Society Naples
See more jobs at Patty Baker Humane Society Naplesexternal

$17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

As an Animal Care Associate, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring our shelter pets are free from stress, fear, and anxiety, while providing a safe and clean environment for them. This position isn't for everyone. It can be loud, smelly, and sometimes stressful. But if making a significant difference in the lives of shelter pets and their future loving families is something you're passionate about, this might be the most fulfilling job you've ever had!
To get a better idea of the morning Animal Care routine, please watch this video!
The Animal Care team focuses on cleaning, feeding, and providing enrichment for all shelter pets on their way to finding their loving homes. Mornings begin with routine wellness checks and participation in playgroups for dogs and group socialization sessions for cats to ensure all animals receive critical socialization and exercise. Throughout the day, you'll transport animals for medical procedures, monitor their health and behavior, and provide the compassionate care that helps them become adoption-ready.
Afternoons are spent spot-cleaning, adding enrichment activities, providing additional socialization time in communal cat rooms and with individual dogs and cats, and assisting other shelter areas depending on daily needs. An ideal candidate for this position loves to flex between team projects and independent work, thrives in a hands-on learning environment, and has a passion for helping people and pets.
Schedule:
Full time, Five days per week, 8am - 5pm, 7am - 4pm, or 9am - 6pm. Candidates must be willing to work all shift types, weekends and holidays.
QUALIFICATIONS
Depending on your experience and qualifications, candidates may be considered for either our Animal Care Team Lead or Senior Animal Care Associate position.
Required:
  • Enthusiasm for the mission of Patty Baker Humane Society Naples and commitment to animal welfare
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • This role requires dedication, compassion, and a strong work ethic.
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs regularly
  • Comfortable interacting with and handling both dogs and cats of varying temperaments
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Reliable transportation
  • Reliable attendance with minimal unscheduled absences
  • Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. We are an equal opportunity employer.

Preferred:
  • 3-6 months of related experience in animal care (shelter, veterinary clinic, kennel, or rescue)
  • Knowledge of dog and cat behavior and body language
  • Experience with dog playgroups or cat group socialization
  • Previous volunteer experience in animal welfare

What We Offer:
  • Pay starts at $17/hr. Paid weekly.
  • Senior Associate pay starts at $18/hr
  • Paid time off and Holiday Pay
  • Medical, dental, vision insurance
  • Paid parental leave
  • Retirement plan available, matching funds after 1 year
  • Significant discounts on veterinary services
  • Employee pet adoption benefits

Application Instructions:
  • Apply online at https://pbhsnaples.org/careers
  • All communication with candidates will be over email and/or text - check your spam folder!
  • If you have technical issues or questions, please email hr@pbhsnaples.org
  • No phone calls or walk-ins please

Apply