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Animal Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Smithfield Foods

Animal Handler

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$20.60/hr

Performs livestock handling animal welfare audits. * Processes outgoing livestock. * Communicates clearly with team members and management team. * Completes PQA, TQA, and other training as deemed ...

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:

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.

Tulane University

Research Specialist II

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

Ability to complete and pass successfully the required occupational health screening referenced in the University's Animal Handler Health Surveillance Program on an annual basis. Qualifications ...

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Animal Handler information

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How much do animal handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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 is an animal handler?

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 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 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.

How do you become an animal handler?

To become an animal handler, individuals typically need relevant experience working with animals, such as volunteering or internships, and may pursue certifications in animal care or safety. Strong knowledge of animal behavior, good communication skills, and physical fitness are also important for handling animals safely and effectively.
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Animal Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Handler job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,374 per year, or $18 per hour.

Animal Handler

Smithfield Foods

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$20.60/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.

Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!

Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!

Your Opportunity

Our team members receive industry-leading wages and are eligible for great benefits packages:

  • Hourly Competitive Starting Pay - $20.60/hour

  • $0.25/hour shift differential for 2nd shift

  • Comprehensive Health Insurance, Retirement Benefits, and More.

  • Education benefit available to full and part-time Smithfield team members upon meeting eligibility requirements

In addition, we offer opportunities for career growth and professional development.

This position is responsible for the safe and efficient set up, inspection and operation of equipment/machinery utilized in the processing of meat products. Additionally, responsible for following standard operating procedures, including but not limited to, completing production related paperwork and meeting product specifications.

Core Responsibilities

  • Receives, unloads and sorts hogs according to quality and weight.

  • Identifies (tattoo), scales, moves and accurately counts livestock, including any dead or non-ambulatory animals.

  • Moves hogs from trucks to holding pens.

  • Monitors yard and truck conditions according to corporate and government standards to ensure livestock are handled properly.

  • Performs livestock handling animal welfare audits.

  • Processes outgoing livestock.

  • Communicates clearly with team members and management team.

  • Completes PQA, TQA, and other training as deemed necessary for role.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.

Relocation Package Available No

EEO Information

Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.

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