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Animal Helper Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Petco

Animal Care Specialist

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Specialist , you are the primary expert and advocate for the health, welfare ...

Petco

Animal Care Supervisor

Livonia, MI · On-site

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Supervisor , you are a trusted subject-matter leader responsible for the ...

Petco

Animal Care Supervisor

Livonia, MI · On-site

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Supervisor , you are a trusted subject-matter leader responsible for the ...

Petco

Animal Care Specialist

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Specialist , you are the primary expert and advocate for the health, welfare ...

Petco

Animal Care Specialist

Canton, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Specialist , you are the primary expert and advocate for the health, welfare ...

Petco

Animal Care Specialist

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Specialist , you are the primary expert and advocate for the health, welfare ...

Petco

Animal Care Specialist

Portage, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Specialist , you are the primary expert and advocate for the health, welfare ...

Petco

Animal Care Specialist

Canton, MI

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Specialist , you are the primary expert and advocate for the health, welfare ...

Petco

Animal Care Specialist

Portage, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Specialist , you are the primary expert and advocate for the health, welfare ...

Petco

Animal Care Specialist

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Specialist , you are the primary expert and advocate for the health, welfare ...

Petco

Animal Care Specialist

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Specialist , you are the primary expert and advocate for the health, welfare ...

Petco

Animal Care Specialist

Rochester Hills, MI

$14 - $18.50/hr

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Specialist , you are the primary expert and advocate for the health, welfare ...

Petco

Companion Animal Supervisor

Canton, MI · On-site

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Supervisor , you are a trusted subject-matter leader responsible for the ...

Petco

Companion Animal Supervisor

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

Want to help pets live their best lives? We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet ... As a Companion Animal Supervisor , you are a trusted subject-matter leader responsible for the ...

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All JobsAnimal Helper JobsAnimal Helper Jobs in Michigan

Animal Helper information

See Michigan salary details

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How much do animal helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal helper in Michigan is $15.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $16.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Animal Helper vs Animal Care Assistant?

AspectAnimal HelperAnimal Care Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, rescue centers, pet storesVeterinary clinics, animal shelters, pet care facilities
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in shelters and rescue organizationsWidely used in veterinary clinics and animal care facilities
Search & Comparison IntentPeople looking for entry-level animal support rolesIndividuals seeking more specialized animal care positions

Animal Helper roles typically involve assisting with basic animal care tasks in shelters or rescue centers, often requiring minimal formal certification. Animal Care Assistants usually work in veterinary clinics or more structured environments, often with certifications or training. Both roles support animal well-being but differ in work setting and responsibilities.

What is an animal helper?

Animal helpers are individuals who assist with the care, handling, and well-being of animals in various settings, such as animal shelters, veterinary clinics, zoos, or wildlife rehabilitation centers. Their duties often include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and helping with enrichment activities. Animal helpers play a crucial role in ensuring animals are comfortable, safe, and healthy, and may also assist with adoptions or educational outreach. This job requires compassion, patience, and a genuine love for animals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal helper?

To thrive as an Animal Helper, you need a basic understanding of animal care, behavior, and handling, often supplemented by a high school diploma or relevant coursework. Familiarity with animal restraint tools, feeding systems, and record-keeping software is typically required. Patience, compassion, and strong communication skills are crucial for effectively working with both animals and people. These skills ensure the safety, well-being, and proper care of animals while supporting smooth collaboration with colleagues and pet owners.

What are common challenges faced by animal helpers when working in shelters or rescue organizations?

Animal Helpers in shelters or rescue organizations often encounter challenges such as managing the emotional stress of caring for abused or neglected animals, handling a high volume of animals with varying needs, and ensuring proper sanitation and safety. Additionally, they may need to coordinate with veterinarians, trainers, and volunteers, which requires strong communication and teamwork skills. Adaptability and compassion are essential for balancing animal welfare with organizational protocols and resource limitations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Animal jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Animal Helper jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Animal Helper job openings:
Animal Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Helper job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,530 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Animal Caretaker - Part-time

Allegan County

Allegan, MI • On-site

$17.83/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Allegan County has much to offer, with 24 Townships, 9 Cities, and 2 Villages across nearly 900 square miles. The landscapes range from the lakeshore to beautifully wooded lands, our County's natural resources are a gift to be treasured. Allegan County businesses, citizens, and employees are world-class, and we remain a welcoming, closely-knit community. We are one of the fastest-growing counties in Michigan.
Allegan County Government places high importance on our core values: Respect, Integrity, Commitment and Honesty. A common thread among our leadership, employees and volunteers is a strong desire to serve and be part of something meaningful. We have been recognized by Gallagher as "Best in Class Winner" among mid-size companies for our excellence in optimizing employee and organizational well-being for three years in a row (2023-2025). We have also received the "Impact Award" from M.E.R.S. for excellence in educating our employees about their retirement plans and overall financial wellness. We are looking for dedicated, caring, energetic people to join our team!
Job Summary
Responsible for the overall care and well-being of the animals housed at the Allegan County Animal Shelter. The Animal Caretaker will perform kennel cleaning, walking, feeding, and provide mental and physical enrichment to the animals. The position will also handle administrative tasks such as animal intake, keeping an inventory of animal food and shelter supplies and keeping records of animal care activities.
Starting Wage: $17.83 per hour - part time position
Responsibilities and Duties:
  1. Handle general care tasks such as feeding and kennel cleaning of the animals
  2. Assist in restraining animals for veterinary management
  3. Create intake paperwork for all animal intakes
  4. Create Kennel Card for all new animal intakes
  5. Provide intake vaccination/prevention for animals
  6. Keep records of animal feedings, treatments, and other updates
  7. Keep up daily laundry and cleaning for animal health per state mandates
  8. Engage in play activities and exercise with the animals
  9. Maintain a clean and healthy environment
  10. Provide weekly inventory list for animal food and shelter supplies

Education / Experience:
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent
  • Previous experience in animal care or related field preferred

Qualifications:
  • Passion for helping and treating animals
  • Ability to interact with animals in a calm, non-threatening manner
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions and changing work priorities
  • Detail-oriented, Self-motivated as well as Team-oriented

*Candidates must pass a drug screen (which includes testing for THC) in order to be hired for this position.

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