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Animal Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zoo Atlanta

Daytime Educator (Level I or II)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$16.06 - $18.17/hr

Animal Handler Training * Sunday, September 13 - Approximately 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day * Sunday, September 20 - Approximately 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day Job Purpose: A Daytime Educator ...

City of Cleveland

Animal Control Officer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$25.10 - $26.76/hr

Gives verbal and written warnings as well as citations to animal owners and animal handlers who have violated ordinances and regulations related to animal control. Prepares incident reports and ...

Heartshare

Canine Handler

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$24.72 - $27.47/hr

The handler is responsible for managing all student/dog interactions, following safety and ... Have training specific to animal-assisted intervention on topics including, but not limited to:

Heartshare

Canine Handler

Queens, NY · On-site

$24.72 - $27.47/hr

The handler is responsible for managing all student/dog interactions, following safety and ... Have training specific to animal-assisted intervention on topics including, but not limited to:

New

Phibro Animal Health

Material Handler

Quincy, IL · On-site

$21.25/hr

About Phibro Animal Health Corporation Phibro Animal Health Corporation is a publicly traded ... The Material Handler is an integral part of our Manufacturing team based out of our Quincy site.

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How much do animal handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal handler in the United States is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the common daily responsibilities of an Animal Handler?

Animal Handlers are typically responsible for feeding, grooming, exercising, and monitoring the health of animals under their care. They may also be involved in cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures, administering basic medications, and assisting veterinarians or trainers during procedures. Collaboration with team members is common to ensure proper animal care and support a smooth workflow. Depending on the workplace, handlers may work with a variety of species and follow specific protocols tailored to each animal's needs. Understanding these day-to-day tasks helps job seekers prepare for the hands-on and sometimes physically demanding nature of the role.

What does it take to be an animal handler?

An animal handler typically needs a strong understanding of animal behavior, safety protocols, and proper handling techniques. Relevant skills include patience, physical fitness, and sometimes certifications in animal care or safety. Experience working with animals and knowledge of specific species are also important for this role.

What is an Animal Handler job?

An Animal Handler is responsible for the care, transport, and management of animals in various settings, such as zoos, veterinary clinics, research facilities, or entertainment industries. Their duties include feeding, grooming, exercising, and ensuring animals are comfortable and safe. They may also assist in medical procedures or training. Strong knowledge of animal behavior and handling techniques is essential.

What qualifications do you need to become an animal caretaker?

Animal handlers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience working with animals. Certifications in animal care, such as pet first aid or species-specific training, can enhance job prospects, and good physical fitness and communication skills are important for handling animals safely and effectively.

What is the highest paying job in the animal industry?

The highest paying jobs in the animal industry often include specialized roles such as veterinary surgeons, zoo directors, or research scientists, with veterinary surgeons typically earning the highest salaries. These positions usually require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive experience. Animal handlers generally earn lower wages compared to these specialized roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Animal Handler position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Handler, you need practical knowledge of animal behavior, safe handling techniques, and often a high school diploma or specialized animal care training. Familiarity with animal restraint tools, safety protocols, and in some cases relevant certifications such as animal first aid are important. Patience, strong observation skills, and effective communication help Animal Handlers work well with both animals and colleagues. These skills are essential for ensuring the well-being of the animals, maintaining safety, and supporting a productive work environment.

What do animal handlers do?

Animal handlers are responsible for caring for, managing, and training animals in various settings such as zoos, farms, or research facilities. They ensure animals' well-being, safety, and proper behavior, often using specific handling techniques and safety protocols. The role may require knowledge of animal behavior and sometimes certifications in animal care or safety procedures.
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Animal Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Handler job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,374 per year, or $18 per hour.
Animal Handler II- Barn 2nd shift

Animal Handler II- Barn 2nd shift

Clemens Food Group

Hatfield, PA • On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 21 days ago

Clemens Food Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

270th of 397 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

What You?ll Be DoingAs an Animal Handler II, you?re a key player in making sure our operations run smoothly and humanely. You?ll handle and move hogs with care, support traceability processes, and ensure animal welfare from trailer to pen.Your Responsibilities:Humanely unload hogs from delivery trailers using approved low-stress handling techniques. Accurately count and document the number of hogs received per lot for both Company and USDA records. Move hogs from unloading docks to lairage pens, and from lairage pens to the middle alley or other barn locations. Maintain and manage all traceability paperwork and records related to hog lots. Verify completion of ante-mortem inspections prior to releasing a lot for harvest.Why Choose Clemens Food Group?We don?t just offer jobs we build careers with purpose, stability, and growth. Here?s what makes us stand out: Benefits start Day 1 health, dental, vision, and more Yearly raisesto recognize your contributions Onsite fitness centerwith an indoor gym and basketball court Onsite grocery storefor everyday essentials Annual Christmas bonusto show our appreciation Training and growth learn to operate skid steers and more Plenty of advancement opportunitieswithin a growing companyWho We?re Looking For Individuals who care about animal welfare and working with integrity Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage paperwork accurately Physical ability to walk, lift, and move in dynamic environments Willingness to follow safety protocols and participate in company- provided training

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