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Animal Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Blue Step

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Dog Handler

Carrollton, TX · On-site

$12.25 - $16/hr

Oversee animal restraint procedures, ensuring safety for both dogs and handlers during examinations or grooming * Provide hands-on dog training to improve behavior, obedience, and social skills using ...

New

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Be Seen First

Dog Handler

Carrollton, TX · On-site

$12.25 - $16/hr

Oversee animal restraint procedures, ensuring safety for both dogs and handlers during examinations or grooming * Provide hands-on dog training to improve behavior, obedience, and social skills using ...

New

ASPCA

$20 - $25/hr

Animal Care and Handlers may often take rotations at our Cruelty Recovery Center in Columbus, OH. What You'll Do Animal Care and Handlers report directly to the Senior Manager, National Responder ...

Smithfield Foods

Animal Handling Specialist

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

This dynamic position offers the opportunity to lead training initiatives for all livestock handlers, oversee daily animal care, and manage comprehensive animal welfare audits. You'll serve as a ...

Smithfield Foods

Animal Handling Specialist

Tar Heel, NC

$14 - $18.50/hr

This dynamic position offers the opportunity to lead training initiatives for all livestock handlers, oversee daily animal care, and manage comprehensive animal welfare audits. You'll serve as a ...

Smithfield Foods

Animal Handling Specialist

Tar Heel, NC

$14 - $18.50/hr

This dynamic position offers the opportunity to lead training initiatives for all livestock handlers, oversee daily animal care, and manage comprehensive animal welfare audits. You'll serve as a ...

ProspectBArk

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 ...

ProspectBArk

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 ...

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Animal Handler information

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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 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,374 per year, or $18 per hour.

Dog Handler

Blue Step

Carrollton, TX • On-site

$12.25 - $16/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Join our dynamic team as a Lead Dog Handler, where your passion for animals and exceptional handling skills will lead the charge in providing top-tier care and training for our canine companions. In this vital role, you will oversee daily dog handling operations, ensure the safety and well-being of each animal, and mentor a team of handlers to uphold our high standards of animal care. Your energetic approach and attention to detail will help create a positive environment for both dogs and staff, fostering trust and excellence in every interaction.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and coordinate daily dog handling activities, ensuring proper training, socialization, and care routines are followed
  • Oversee animal restraint procedures, ensuring safety for both dogs and handlers during examinations or grooming
  • Provide hands-on dog training to improve behavior, obedience, and social skills using positive reinforcement techniques
  • Supervise pet grooming, pet sitting, and kennel duties to maintain cleanliness, health standards, and comfort for all animals
  • Monitor dog behavior closely to identify signs of stress or illness; communicate observations to veterinary teams promptly
  • Train and mentor team members on animal handling best practices, emphasizing safety protocols and compassionate care
  • Skills
  • Dod behavior experience preferred with a focus on dog psychology and relationship based methods
  • Strong dog handling skills combined with animal restraint techniques for safe management of diverse energies and temperaments
  • Excellent customer service skills to communicate effectively with pet owners and team members
  • Ability to perform heavy lifting when necessary for moving animals or equipment safely

Join us in making a difference in the lives of animals through energetic leadership and compassionate care. Your dedication will help shape a safe, nurturing environment where dogs thrive and owners trust us to deliver exceptional service.