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Animal Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Animal Control Officer

Marana, AZ · On-site

$21.68 - $31.44/hr

Over one year as an animal control officer or in a related field such as peace officer/investigator, K-9 handler/trainer, veterinarian office, animal shelter, and code enforcement. An equivalent ...

Experienced Dog Handler

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Are you someone who has already worked as a dog walker, pet sitter, dog daycare handler, groomer, vet tech, vet assistant, shelter staff, or animal rescue volunteer? WELL, THEN LOOK NO FURTHER. This ...

Experienced Dog Handler

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Are you someone who has already worked as a dog walker, pet sitter, dog daycare handler, groomer, vet tech, vet assistant, shelter staff, or animal rescue volunteer? WELL, THEN LOOK NO FURTHER. This ...

... handler/trainer, veterinarian office, animal shelter, and code enforcement. An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience that provides the desired knowledge, skills & abilities to ...

Maintain active animal handler status with the education program animal collection in accordance with education program animal guidelines, policies, and procedures. * Communicate appropriately and ...

$85 - $135/hr

... animal handler, and/or assistant. * 5% - Support the development and maintenance of relevant low fidelity models used in clinical and surgical skills labs. * 4% - Other duties as assigned. * 1% - ...

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Dog Handler

Ronkonkoma, NY · On-site

$18/hr

... handlers to use highly trained Australian Shepherd's (a herding breed), to chase away unwanted ... We provide all the tools needed to clean up animal waste.

New

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Dog Handler

Ronkonkoma, NY · On-site

$18/hr

... handlers to use highly trained Australian Shepherd's (a herding breed), to chase away unwanted ... We provide all the tools needed to clean up animal waste.

New

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Animal Handler information

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$9

$17

$24

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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What states have the most Animal Handler jobs?

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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.

$37.70/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

The National Detector Dog Training Center plays a crucial role in safeguarding America's agricultural and natural resources from harmful pests and diseases by training specially selected dogs and their human handlers to perform vital tasks aimed at detecting, restricting entry, and/or eradication of foreign plant pests. The Animal Caretaker Supervisor is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing work performed in the care and maintenance of working canines.Qualifications:
To qualify, you must show you have had training and experience of sufficient scope and quality to provide you with the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position. Your answers to the vacancy specific questions must be supported by the work experience in your resume. For example, if you respond in the affirmative when questioned whether you have experience in animal care taking your resume must include this experience, mindful that experience may not be inferred by job title.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education:This position does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER