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Animal Care Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Pet Pro Lead (Animal Care Supervisor) Full-Time | Animal Care Leadership Role Are you an experienced animal care professional ready to lead from the floor? We are seeking a Pet Pro Lead to supervise ...

Pet Pro Lead (Animal Care Supervisor) Full-Time | Animal Care Leadership Role Are you an experienced animal care professional ready to lead from the floor? We are seeking a Pet Pro Lead to supervise ...

Intake Specialist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Animal Care Reports To: Intake Supervisor Location: 3280 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd, Chamblee, GA 30341 Summary: LifeLine Animal Project is committed to the care and welfare of pets and the people who love ...

Intake Specialist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Animal Care Reports To: Intake Supervisor Location: 3280 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd, Chamblee, GA 30341 Summary: LifeLine Animal Project is committed to the care and welfare of pets and the people who love ...

Intake Coordinator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

LifeLine Animal Project is committed to the care and welfare of pets and the people who love them. The values we exhibit as an organization show the strength of our staff, our leadership and our ...

Veterinary Technician

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Veterinary Technician responsibilities include assisting the Veterinarian with surgeries and procedures, coordinating animal care, and monitoring animal recovery. You will work closely with the ...

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Animal Care information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$9

$17

$26

How much do animal care jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal care in Decatur, GA is $17.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are Different Types of Animal Care Jobs?

There are many different animal care jobs available, and which one you choose to do depends on your qualifications, interests, and training. If you are interested in working with household pets, you can find work as a vet tech or assistant, a pet groomer, or an animal trainer. If you have higher qualifications and an interest in working with larger or more exotic animals, you can work as a zoo caretaker or even in a state park or wildlife refuge. The qualifications for all of these jobs vary drastically from no education to a doctorate.

What is the difference between Animal Care vs Veterinary Assistant?

AspectAnimal CareVeterinary Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications varyHigh school diploma; often requires veterinary assistant certification
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, pet stores, kennels, rescue organizationsVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal care facilities, pet services, sheltersVeterinary practices, animal healthcare industry
Common Search & ComparisonAnimal Care vs Veterinary Assistant

Animal Care roles focus on caring for animals in shelters, pet stores, and rescue organizations, often requiring basic certifications. Veterinary Assistants work directly in veterinary clinics, assisting veterinarians with medical procedures and patient care, usually needing specific certifications. While both roles involve animal handling, Veterinary Assistants have a more medical focus, whereas Animal Care roles emphasize daily animal welfare and enrichment.

What are some common challenges faced by animal care professionals, and how can they be managed effectively?

Animal care professionals frequently encounter challenges such as handling animals with unpredictable behavior, managing emotionally difficult situations like illness or euthanasia, and maintaining strict sanitation standards. Building strong observation skills, practicing patience, and adhering to safety protocols can help manage these challenges. Additionally, teamwork and open communication with colleagues, as well as ongoing training, are crucial for ensuring both animal welfare and personal well-being.

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

To thrive as an Animal Care professional, you need a strong understanding of animal behavior, basic veterinary care, and proper handling techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with animal management software, feeding and cleaning protocols, and safety equipment is typically required. Compassion, patience, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for building trust with animals and working well with team members. These skills ensure the health, safety, and well-being of animals while maintaining efficient and humane care standards.

What are animal care workers?

Animal care workers are professionals who provide daily care and support for animals in various settings, such as shelters, zoos, veterinary clinics, and pet boarding facilities. Their responsibilities typically include feeding, grooming, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and assisting with medical treatments. They play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being and safety of animals and often work closely with veterinarians and animal trainers. Compassion, attention to detail, and physical stamina are important qualities for success in this field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Care jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Animal Care jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Care jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Care jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Animal Care jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Animal Care job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Care job openings in Decatur, GA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,155 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Animal Care Technician II- Division of Animal Resources, School of Medicine

Animal Care Technician II- Division of Animal Resources, School of Medicine

Emory University

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Emory Healthcare rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 210 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 870 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Discover Your Career at Emory University
Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.
Description
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Performs routine and specialized duties associated with animal care, including feeding, medicating, cleaning, restraint and transportation.
  • Maintains adequate inventory of necessary supplies and equipment.
  • Observes animal behavior and conditions, collects specimens and provides technical assistance to research and veterinary personnel.
  • Performs minor repairs and maintains animal housing facility.
  • May train and supervise new technicians.
  • May drive utility vehicles to transport animals and supplies, ensuring safe operation, daily inspection and vehicle cleanliness.
  • Performs related responsibilities as required.
  • Employees in this classification may be required to work with, take specific precautions against and/or be immunized against potentially hazardous agents.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • A high school diploma or equivalent and two years of animal husbandry/care experience OR certification as Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) and two years of animal husbandry/care experience OR four years of animal husbandry/care experience.
  • The ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Positions within this classification may require a valid Georgia driver's license and an insurable driving record.
  • Positions in this classification may require three years of transportation and routing experience in lieu of animal husbandry/care experience.

NOTE: Position tasks are generally required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location. Remote work from home day options may be granted at department discretion. Emory reserves the right to change remote work status with notice to employee.
Additional Details
Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).
Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.

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