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Animal Handler Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Patrol Officer

Pecos, TX

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

... Animal Control Officers. * Performs police-community relations activities. * Performs upkeep and ... May be assigned as a Crime Scene Processor, Intoxilyzer Operator or K-9 handler. * Educates the ...

Patrol Officer

Pecos, TX · On-site

$54K - $76K/yr

... Animal Control Officers. * Performs police-community relations activities. * Performs upkeep and ... May be assigned as a Crime Scene Processor, Intoxilyzer Operator or K-9 handler. * Educates the ...

Patrol Officer

Pecos, TX · On-site

$54K - $76K/yr

... and Animal Control Officers.Performs police-community relations activities.Performs upkeep and ... May be assigned as a Crime Scene Processor, Intoxilyzer Operator or K-9 handler.Educates the public ...

Showing results 21-31

Animal Handler information

See Texas salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do animal handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal handler in Texas is $16.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $17.45 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 Texas?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Animal Handler job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $34,819 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Café Associate-Full Time

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

Glen Rose, TX • On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

FOSSIL RIM WILDLIFE CENTER invites applicants for the position:
Café Associate- Full Time
Summary/Purpose of Position: This position is responsible for a fast paced, customer-oriented environment. Responsible for providing quick and efficient service to Café customers that will ensure a pleasant dining experience at Fossil Rim.
Description of Position: The responsibilities of the Food Service Specialist include but are not necessarily limited to the following:
  • To always maintain world-class customer service with helpfulness, product knowledge and speed.
  • Follow proper cash handling and cash control procedures, as laid down by the Finance Department.
  • The use of suggestive sales techniques in selling other products of Fossil Rim. (Lodgings, Nature Store, Tours, Camps, etc.)
  • Maintain updated knowledge on special events, new animal information, special attractions, and basic operations of Fossil Rim. Help new team members to develop a similar level of expertise.
  • Maintain a daily high standard of cleanliness of the Café and surrounding dining area.
  • When applicable, assist in the preparation of breakfasts, lunches and dinners for camps and other visitors of Fossil Rim Wildlife Center.
  • Ability to use a Point of Sale system to take orders. Collect customer payments and make change as needed.
  • Stock inventory as needed following the first in – first out procedures.
  • Adheres to quality control and food safety standards by complying with Health Department Standards at all times
Experience and Qualities Required:
  • Prompt and regular attendance on assigned shifts.
  • Provide exemplary customer service skills.
  • Positive attitude, good listening skills, communication capability, financial understanding, trust and respect for others at all times.
  • Ability to be resourceful and be a self- starter.
  • Willingness to learn.
  • Clean, neat and well spoken.
Work Requirements:
  • Up to 40-hour week requiring flexibility. Available to work on weekends and holidays.
  • Adherence to all company policies, rules, and procedures.
  • Ability to stand long periods of time.
  • Ability to lift 30 pounds.
  • Food Handler certification required.
  • One year of relevant experience preferred.
  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
We are a Non-Profit organization and an equal employment opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other protected classification under federal and state law.
Fossil Rim is an “at will” and equal opportunity employer. It should be noted that it is company policy to conduct background checks on potential new employees, inclusive of testing for drugs and controlled substance use.