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Animal Care Associate Jobs in Renton, WA (NOW HIRING)

Animal Technician I

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$22.22 - $31.63/hr

Animal Technician I The Animal Technician I performs routine animal husbandry, custodial care for ... Associates Degree. * 6 months of related experience. The hourly pay range for this position is from ...

Animal Technician I

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$22.22 - $31.63/hr

Fred Hutch operates eight clinical care sites that provide medical oncology, infusion, radiation ... Associates Degree. * 6 months of related experience. The hourly pay range for this position is from ...

Animal Technician I

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$22.22 - $31.63/hr

Fred Hutch operates eight clinical care sites that provide medical oncology, infusion, radiation ... Associates Degree. * 6 months of related experience. The hourly pay range for this position is from ...

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Animal Care Associate information

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Animal Care jobs in Renton, WA? The most popular types of Animal Care jobs in Renton, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Care Associate jobs in Renton, WA? For Animal Care Associate jobs in Renton, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Care Associate jobs in Renton, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Care Associate jobs in Renton, WA are:
What cities near Renton, WA are hiring for Animal Care Associate jobs? Cities near Renton, WA with the most Animal Care Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Care Associate job openings in Renton, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Animal Technician I

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

Seattle, WA โ€ข On-site

$22.22 - $31.63/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Animal Technician I

The Animal Technician I performs routine animal husbandry, custodial care for the animal areas, and processes equipment. The Technician I position is overseen by the Animal Technician Lead and is a direct report to the Animal Husbandry Manager. This is considered an entry level position for individuals with no prior experience in laboratory animal care procedures or individuals who are transitioning from other animal care positions. The incumbent works under the Animal Technician Lead following established procedures in performing daily responsibilities. The Technician I position reports directly to the Animal Husbandry Manager. This position is under close supervision with no responsibility for supervision others. Incumbent is expected to acquire skills and knowledge to perform more advanced work through training. Uses limited discretion and judgement in carrying out tasks.

The Animal Technician I is classified as essential personnel and, as such, is required to work with a minimal number of absences and during all Center closures except in the event of a major disaster when access to animal housing and use facilities is prohibited by governmental emergency personnel.

Responsibilities
  • Animal Care: Learn and become proficient in providing care for all small animal species on a daily basis in accordance with standard operating procedures. Learn to evaluate animals' general health, report abnormalities to veterinary staff (20%)
  • Husbandry Operations: Learn and become proficient in animal husbandry procedures including using and maintaining animal housing. Expected to master changing a minimum of 120 small cages per day. Learn to and become proficient in operation of equipment washers, automatic water bottle filling systems and autoclaves under supervision (40%).
  • Sanitation Operations: Learn and become proficient in performing housekeeping duties such as sweeping, mopping, garbage removal, and equipment washing in animal housing areas and surrounding premises. Learn and become proficient in appropriate sanitation procedures. (20%)
  • Researcher Support: Learn and become proficient in effectively communicating with research staff through verbal, written, or electronic means. (10%)
  • Learn appropriate regulatory and safety regulations surrounding biomedical research. (5%)
  • Perform other duties as assigned. (5%)
Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Good verbal and written English communication skills.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions that are presented in English.
  • Ability to lift and move 50 lbs on a regular basis and sustained physical activities such as bending, balancing, stooping, reaching, and remain standing for long periods of time.
  • Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment including scrubs, gloves, shoe covers, gowns, ear plugs / muffs, face mask, and eye protection.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Associates Degree.
  • 6 months of related experience.

The hourly pay range for this position is from $22.22 to $31.63 and pay offered will be based on experience and qualifications. Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center offers employees a comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance health, well-being, and financial security. Benefits include medical/vision, dental, flexible spending accounts, life, disability, retirement, family life support, employee assistance program, onsite health clinic, tuition reimbursement, paid vacation (12-22 days per year), paid sick leave (12-25 days per year), paid holidays (13 days per year), and paid parental leave (up to 4 weeks).

Additional Information

We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, disability (physical or mental), marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology, or membership in any other legally protected class. We desire priority referrals of protected veterans. If due to a disability you need assistance/and or a reasonable accommodation during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to Human Resources.