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Animal Caretaker Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Astrix Inc

Animal Care Technician

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Sanitize animal rooms, cages, and related equipment to maintain a healthy and compliant environment. * Operate sanitizing equipment, environmental housing systems, and research-related equipment.

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All JobsAnimal Caretaker JobsAnimal Caretaker Jobs in Decatur, GA

Animal Caretaker information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do animal caretaker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal caretaker in Decatur, GA is $16.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Animal Caretaker, you need a solid understanding of animal behavior, basic animal health, and proper handling techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant coursework. Familiarity with animal management software, feeding schedules, and basic veterinary tools is typically required. Patience, attention to detail, and strong observational skills help you notice changes in animal health and ensure proper care. These skills and qualities are essential to provide safe, compassionate care and maintain the well-being of animals in various settings.

What qualifications do you need to become an animal caretaker?

Animal caretakers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience or training in animal care. Certifications in pet first aid or animal handling can be beneficial, and good communication and physical stamina are important for working with animals and in a caregiving environment.

What Is an Animal Caretaker?

An animal caretaker, or service worker, cares for non-farm animals or pets in a shelter, veterinarian office, or boarding facility. Their responsibilities may include feeding animals, cleaning cages and enclosures, and providing other types of animal care service, such as training, bathing, companionship, and exercise. The duties of caretakers are to provide care for pets who are in need of homes, recovering from medical procedures, or boarding temporarily.

How can I become an animal caretaker?

To become an animal caretaker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and experience working with animals. Relevant skills include knowledge of animal behavior, basic veterinary care, and the ability to handle different species; certifications in pet first aid or animal care can also improve job prospects.

What does an Animal Caretaker do?

An Animal Caretaker is responsible for the daily care and well-being of animals in settings like shelters, kennels, zoos, and laboratories. Their duties typically include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring health and behavior, and sometimes assisting with basic medical care. Animal Caretakers also provide enrichment and exercise to ensure animals' physical and mental health. This role requires compassion, attention to detail, and a love for working with animals.

What are some of the common challenges Animal Caretakers face when working with a variety of species?

Animal Caretakers often encounter challenges such as adapting to the unique dietary, behavioral, and medical needs of different species. Managing stress in animals, especially those that are rescued or have experienced trauma, requires patience and specialized care. Additionally, caretakers must work efficiently in environments that can be physically demanding and sometimes unpredictable, while maintaining clear communication with veterinarians, trainers, and other staff to ensure each animal's well-being.

Is animal caretaking a good career?

Animal caretaking is a rewarding career for those passionate about animals, involving tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and monitoring health. It often requires physical stamina, patience, and sometimes certifications in animal care or first aid. Job prospects can vary based on location and experience, with opportunities in zoos, shelters, and pet services.

How much money does an animal caretaker make a year?

The average annual salary for an animal caretaker is around $25,000 to $35,000, depending on experience, location, and the type of animals cared for. Salaries can increase with additional certifications, specialized skills, or working in higher-cost areas.

What is the difference between Animal Caretaker vs Animal Shelter Worker?

AspectAnimal CaretakerAnimal Shelter Worker
CredentialsNone required, but certifications in animal care can helpOften similar, may include basic animal handling certifications
Work EnvironmentZoos, farms, pet stores, kennelsAnimal shelters, rescue centers
Job DutiesFeeding, grooming, monitoring healthAdoption assistance, cleaning, caring for animals

Animal Caretakers and Animal Shelter Workers share similar roles in caring for animals, often working in environments like shelters or zoos. While their duties overlap, Animal Caretakers may focus more on daily animal maintenance in various settings, whereas Animal Shelter Workers often handle adoption processes and shelter operations. Both roles typically require basic animal handling skills and may benefit from certifications in animal care.

More about Animal Caretaker jobs
What are popular job titles related to Animal Caretaker jobs in Decatur, GA? For Animal Caretaker jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Caretaker jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Caretaker jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Animal Caretaker jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Animal Caretaker job openings:
Animal Caretaker jobs near you
Animal Caretaker/Vivarium Assistant

Animal Caretaker/Vivarium Assistant

Mercer University

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Mercer University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Application Instructions:
External Applicants: Please upload your resume on the Apply screen. Your application will automatically populate your resume details, and you may verify and update data on the My Information page.
IMPORTANT: Please review the job posting and load ALL documents required in the job posting to the Resume/CV document upload section at the bottom of the My Experience application page. Use the Select Files button to add multiple documents including your Resume/CV, references, cover letter, and any other supporting documents required in the job posting. The "My Experience" page is the only opportunity to add your required supporting document attachments. You will not be able to modify your application after you submit it.
Current Mercer University Employees: Apply from your existing Workday account. Do not apply from the external careers website. Log in to Workday and type Jobs Hub in the search bar. Locate the position and click Apply.
Job Title:
Animal Caretaker/Vivarium Assistant
Department:
Pharmaceutical Sciences
College/Division:
College Of Pharmacy
Primary Job Posting Location:
Atlanta, GA 30341
Additional Job Posting Locations:
(Other locations that this position could be based)
Job Details:
The College of Pharmacy is searching for an Animal Caretaker and Vivarium Assistant on the Atlanta, Georgia campus.
Responsibilities:
The Animal Caretaker / Vivarium Assistant supports the Director of Vivarium in the daily operation and maintenance of animal care facilities. This position is responsible for performing routine animal husbandry activities to ensure the health, welfare, and proper care of research animals. Duties include: monitoring environmental conditions, conducting health and welfare checks, maintaining adequate food and water supplies, changing cages, operating cage-washing equipment, and ensuring cleanliness and compliance within colony rooms. The incumbent works collaboratively and professionally with faculty, researchers, and trainees to support animal care protocols and the successful conduct of research activities.
Qualifications:
A high school diploma or GED and some relevant experience are required.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  • Must be able to learn and apply basic principles and practices of laboratory animal care and facility maintenance.
  • Basic Computer skills.
  • Ability to learn and to work with Microsoft Office products (Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint).
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and animal care protocols.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to perform routine tasks accurately and consistently.
  • Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary animal care environment.
  • Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Ability to perform physical duties including lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling supplies, feed, bedding, and cages, with or without reasonable accommodations.
  • Must be able to work with disinfectants, germicides, and cleaning agents commonly used in the animal care facility.

Background Check Contingencies:
- Criminal History Check
Document Attachments:
- Resume/CV
- List of references with contact information
About Mercer University
Founded in 1833, Mercer University is a distinguished private institution recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, leadership development, and community engagement. With campuses across Georgia, Mercer's twelve schools and colleges offer a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university cultivates a close-knit, student-centered environment where innovation, service, and personal growth are deeply valued. Mercer's employees are at the heart of its mission, dedicated to advancing innovation, supporting student success, and strengthening both our local and global communities through service. At Mercer, we believe in the power of relationships and the importance of in-person collaboration. Accordingly, our employees are expected to serve in-person as it fosters real-time problem solving, mentoring, and the meaningful connections that strengthen both our work and service to our students and the broader university community.
Why Work at Mercer University
Mercer University offers a variety of benefits for eligible employees including comprehensive health insurance (for self and dependents), generous retirement contributions, tuition waivers, paid vacation and sick leave, technology discounts, schedules that allow for work-life balance, and so much more!
At Mercer University, a Bear is more than a mascot: it's a frame of mind that begins with a strong desire to make the most out of your career. Mercer Bears do not settle for mediocrity or the status quo. If you're seeking an environment where your passion and determination are embraced, then you want to work at Mercer University.
For more information, please visit: https://hr.mercer.edu/prospective-employees/
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
40
Job Family:
Staff Research and Lab Services Non-exempt
EEO Statement:
EEO/Veteran/Disability

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