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Animal Handler Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Tekwissen

Material Handler

Union City, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $22.75/hr

This Client is a global animal health company dedicated to supporting customers and their ... Material Handler Location: Union City CA 94587 Duration: 6 Months Job Type: Temporary Assignment ...

ADM

Product Handler - Colton , CA

Colton, CA · On-site

$22.44/hr

Product Handler - Colton , CAThis is a full time, hourly position.AssignmentsPotential assignments ... We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural ...

Atkins Ranch

Be Seen First

Warehouse Worker (F/L Experience)- 2nd Shift (2:30pm to 11pm)

Fremont, CA · On-site

$22.55/hr

... in animal welfare and regenerative agriculture. POSITION SUMMARY: The Warehouse Associate is responsible for completing assigned duties of the warehouse operation ensuring the proper receipt ...

New

Urgent

A Cut Above Butcher Shop

Deli Associate

Santa Monica, CA

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

We are a busy Whole Animal Butcher Shop in Santa Monica. We are looking to add to our already ... ServSafe CA Food Handler's Card and knowledge of protocol is a must, attention to procedural ...

Forty-Niner Shops

Cook I - Event Services

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

Regularly handles animal and vegetable proteins through various stages of cooking * Inspects ... Certificates, Licenses, Registrations The employee must have the California Food Handler Card OR ...

Forty-Niner Shops

Cook I - Playa Tacos

Long Beach, CA · On-site

Regularly handles animal and vegetable proteins through various stages of cooking * Inspects ... Certificates, Licenses, Registrations The employee must have the California Food Handler Card OR ...

SAIC

Marine Mammal Assistant 2

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

... areas, animal enclosures and commons areas, as well as maintaining and cleaning specialized ... The personnel in this position may designated as primary or secondary handler, executing individual ...

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Animal Handler information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do animal handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal handler in California is $17.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.51 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.

What are popular job titles related to Animal Handler jobs in California?

For Animal Handler jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Handler jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Handler jobs in California are:

Animal Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Handler job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,884 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

SFDK Land Animal Care Specialist 2 $24.00/HR

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

Vallejo, CA • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Six Flags rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 529 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 58 rated theme parks

Job description

Overview
Responsible for the feeding, cleaning, maintenance and training of the Discovery Theater collection.
Responsibilities
  • Feed, clean and daily husbandry of animals in Animal Care.
  • Give medication to animals as directed by Supervisor.
  • Record daily entries into logbook concerning animal care and behaviors.
  • Perform in Discovery Theater shows and act as backup during shows.
  • Walk assigned animals around park ensuring animal and guest safety.
  • Handle animals in and out of the park as needed.
  • Perform regularly in front of the public, demonstrating various animal behaviors.
  • Assist Apprentice Trainers and Handlers with proper protocol.
  • Answer guest's questions concerning animal care, diet, etc. and other general park information in a polite courteous and informative manner.
  • Learn all essential commands and related behaviors.
  • Follow all department and park policies.
  • Assist other trainers as needed.
  • Maintain equipment and enclosures as needed.
  • Animals in collection consist of felines, domestic animals, small exotics, large hoof stock, and birds.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Previous experience as an Apprentice Trainer in Animal Care with Supervisors approval and/or minimum two years previous experience.
  • Must be in excellent physical condition and possess the mental capacities to perform the essential job duties. Must be able to lift equipment up to 50 lbs.
  • Must possess the physical dexterity to hold and maneuver equipment.
  • Must be able to walk and move quickly between different areas.
  • Must not be afraid of heights.
  • Good public speaking ability.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather.
  • Must possess the physical and mental abilities to work with very large strong animals.
  • Must be available to work weekends and holidays.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license.

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