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Animal Care Associate Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

VCA Animal Hospitals

Kennel Assistant

Centreville, VA · On-site

We are seeking an Animal Care Attendant to join our team in a part time role. The successful ... 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 Washington salary details

$8

$14

$37

How much do animal care associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal care associate in Washington is $14.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.58 and $16.00 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 Washington?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Animal Care Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Care Associate job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,949 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Associate Veterinarian

Crossroads Animal care center

Woodbridge, VA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Crossroads Animal Care Center 

Where Pets, People, and Purpose Come Together 
 
 Associate Veterinarian 
 Full Time or Part Time
 Small Animal | General Practice
 Woodbridge, VA

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At Crossroads Animal Care Center, we’re proud to be a trusted resource for pet families throughout Woodbridge, Lake Ridge, and the greater Northern Virginia community. Recognized as the highest-rated veterinary practice in Woodbridge and Lake Ridge by Consumers’ Checkbook magazine, we are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality, and affordable care for every patient who walks through our doors. Our experienced team combines advanced medical services with a client-focused approach, creating an environment where both pets and their owners feel welcomed and supported. From preventive care and diagnostics to surgery and wellness services, we take pride in delivering exceptional medicine while fostering a collaborative, positive workplace where veterinarians can thrive and grow in their careers. Whether you are an experienced doctor or an early-career veterinarian seeking mentorship, Crossroads Animal Care Center offers the opportunity to practice high-quality medicine with a dedicated and supportive team.

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Why You’ll Love Working Here

  • Mentorship Tailored to You – Whether you're an experienced veterinarian or an early-career doctor, you'll be supported by a collaborative team that enjoys teaching, discussing cases, and helping colleagues grow both clinically and professionally.
  • Practice High-Quality Medicine – Work in a well-established hospital known for exceptional patient care, equipped with modern technology and the resources needed to provide excellent medical and surgical care.
  • A Team-First Culture – Join a compassionate, supportive group of veterinarians and support staff who value teamwork, open communication, and creating a positive experience for both clients and patients.
  • Strong Community Reputation – Be part of a practice recognized as the highest-rated veterinary hospital in Woodbridge and Lake Ridge by Consumers' Checkbook magazine, serving loyal clients throughout Northern Virginia with a commitment to affordable, high-quality care.

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Life in Woodbridge, VA
 Woodbridge offers the perfect balance of suburban comfort and urban convenience. Located just outside Washington, D.C., residents enjoy easy access to world-class dining, entertainment, cultural attractions, and professional opportunities while benefiting from a more relaxed and affordable lifestyle. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby parks, hiking trails, and the scenic Potomac River, while families appreciate the area's highly rated schools, diverse communities, and abundant recreational activities. With its strong sense of community, convenient location, and excellent quality of life, Woodbridge is a wonderful place to build both a career and a home.

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Crossroads Animal Care Center is proud to be part of Community Veterinary Partners (CVP). While every CVP hospital maintains its own unique personality and culture, we’re united by one mission: to create more meaningful moments between pets and people—starting with the people on our teams. That means giving our doctors the trust, support, and resources they need to thrive.

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Crossroads Animal Care Center + CVP Difference 

  • Creative Compensation – Crafted to intentionally align with your career aspirations.
  • Expansive Network – Collaborate with 600+ doctors across 148+ hospitals in 18 states, gaining unmatched support and expertise.
  • Comprehensive Mental Health Support – 24/7 access to Journey, our platform for confidential support for you, your family, and friends.
  • Clinical Autonomy – Make the best medical decisions for your patients within a supportive team.
  • Top-Tier Growth & Mentorship – Benefit from structured onboarding, leadership development, and career advancement programs.

And through CVP’s shared values — Champion People, Elevate Care, Respect Each Other, Execute with Excellence, Seek to Understand — we create an environment where care flourishes, growth is encouraged, and your career can take the path you choose.

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Other Benefits of our Community

  • Sign-on Bonus and Relocation assistance available.
  • No Negative Accrual EVER.
  • Generous PTO + Paid Parental Leave – Because burnout is out and balance is in.
  • Yearly CE Funds + Paid Time Off Just for CE – Learn, grow, and level up without burning your vacation days.
  • We Cover the Fees – State licenses, DEA, AVMA PLIT? Handled.
  • 401(k) Match + Equity Opportunities – Real wealth-building, not just a paycheck.
  • Pet care discounts so your own pets get the royal treatment they deserve.
  • Team Recognition Programs – From shout-outs to bonus rewards, we love giving credit where it’s due. (We see you, tech and support staff)


Our doctors enjoy a competitive base salary with monthly production compensation and no negative accrual, meaning you will never owe money back if production fluctuates. This structure rewards growth, efficiency, and strong medicine — offering true unlimited earning potential.

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Sound like your kind of place?
 Let’s talk. You’ll do medicine that matters, with people you’ll actually want to hang out with, in a place that supports your growth. Whether it’s this practice or one of the other 150+ clinics in our community, I’d love to hear about what’s most important to you in your next role and see if we have a great fit!

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Equal Opportunity Employer
Community Veterinary Partners (CVP) does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

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