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Animal Care Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Animal Hospital

Part time Technician

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Communicate effectively with pet owners regarding animal care and treatment plans. * Ensure cleanliness and sterilization of equipment and work areas. Qualifications * Previous experience as a ...

CareVet

Part time Technician

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Communicate effectively with pet owners regarding animal care and treatment plans. * Ensure cleanliness and sterilization of equipment and work areas. Qualifications * Previous experience as a ...

Petco

Store General Manager

Buffalo, IL · On-site

$52K - $85K/mo

With a passion for pets and people, you build engaged teams, drive profitable growth, and ensure the highest standards of animal care, safety, and customer experience. What You'll Do Pet First

New

Petco

General Manager - Springfield, IL

Buffalo, IL · On-site

$52K - $85K/mo

With a passion for pets and people, you build engaged teams, drive profitable growth, and ensure the highest standards of animal care, safety, and customer experience. What You'll Do Pet First

New

NVA

Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)

Decatur, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Partnerships with Macon County Animal Control and Decatur & Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation ... Patient Nursing & Care * Client Communication & Education Confidence, initiative, and a passion for ...

NVA

Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)

Decatur, IL · On-site

Partnerships with Macon County Animal Control and Decatur & Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation ... Patient Nursing & Care * Client Communication & Education Confidence, initiative, and a passion for ...

PetSmart

Retail Sales Associate Part Time

Forsyth, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums). * Maintains total ...

PetSmart

Retail Sales Associate Part Time

Forsyth, IL

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums). * Maintains total ...

PetSmart

Retail Sales Associate Part Time

Forsyth, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums). * Maintains total ...

PetSmart

Retail Sales Associate Full Time

Forsyth, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums). * Maintains total ...

PetSmart

Retail Sales Associate Full Time

Forsyth, IL

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums). * Maintains total ...

PetSmart

Retail Sales Associate Full Time

Forsyth, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Responsible for the pet healthcare of store owned pets, which includes feeding, watering and cleaning all pet habitats (bird, reptile, small animal, cricket, and fish aquariums). * Maintains total ...

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All JobsAnimal Care JobsAnimal Care Jobs in Decatur, IL

Animal Care information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$9

$17

$26

How much do animal care jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal care in Decatur, IL is $17.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animal care worker?

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal care professional?

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 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 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 animal care jobs pay well?

Animal care jobs that tend to pay higher salaries include veterinary technicians, zoo keepers, and animal researchers, often requiring specialized skills or certifications. Positions in wildlife rehabilitation or working with exotic animals can also offer higher pay, especially with experience and advanced training.

What jobs can I do if I love animals?

Animal care offers various job opportunities such as veterinary technician, animal shelter worker, pet groomer, zookeeper, and pet trainer. These roles typically require knowledge of animal behavior, some may need certifications or training, and often involve working in environments like clinics, shelters, or zoos.

What jobs can I do in animal care?

Jobs in animal care include roles such as veterinary technician, animal caretaker, pet groomer, zookeeper, and animal trainer. These positions often require specific skills, certifications, or experience working with animals in settings like clinics, shelters, zoos, or grooming salons.
More about Animal Care jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL?

The most popular types of Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL?

For Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Animal Care jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Animal Care job openings:

Animal Care jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Care job openings in Decatur, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,913 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Part time Technician

Lincoln, IL • On-site

The Animal Hospital
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about The Animal Hospitalexternal

$17 - $20/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Part Time Veterinary Technician
Location: Lincoln, IL 62656
Job Description
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Part Time Veterinary Technician to join our team in Lincoln, IL. The ideal candidate will have experience in veterinary care and a passion for helping animals. This role involves assisting veterinarians with medical procedures, providing excellent patient care, and supporting the overall operations of our clinic.
Responsibilities
  • Assist veterinarians during examinations, surgeries, and treatments.
  • Perform routine laboratory tests and diagnostic procedures.
  • Administer medications and vaccinations as directed.
  • Monitor and care for hospitalized animals.
  • Maintain accurate medical records and documentation.
  • Communicate effectively with pet owners regarding animal care and treatment plans.
  • Ensure cleanliness and sterilization of equipment and work areas.
Qualifications
  • Previous experience as a Veterinary Technician preferred.
  • Knowledge of veterinary medical terminology and procedures.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Compassionate attitude towards animals and their owners.
  • Certification or licensure as a Veterinary Technician is a plus.
Work Schedule
This is a part-time position with flexible hours. Specific scheduling details will be discussed during the interview process.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about animal care and meet the qualifications listed above, please submit your resume and cover letter to our hiring team. We look forward to hearing from you!

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