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Animal Nursing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Pennsylvania

Our large animal veterinary nurses play a vital role in the patient care team, provide exceptional care for equine patients as well as a variety of other farm animal species. We offer both inpatient ...

University of Pennsylvania

Our large animal veterinary nurses play a vital role in the patient care team, provide exceptional care for equine patients as well as a variety of other farm animal species. We offer both inpatient ...

Purdue University

Animal Care Technician

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Animal Care Technician City: West Lafayette Job Summary Join Purdue University and help support the ... Our veterinary nurses play a crucial role in teaching and mentoring students throughout the year ...

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How much do animal nursing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal nursing in the United States is $17.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Nurse, you need a solid background in animal care, knowledge of veterinary procedures, and a relevant qualification such as a diploma in veterinary nursing. Familiarity with veterinary practice management systems, laboratory equipment, and animal monitoring tools is typically required. Strong communication, compassion, and attention to detail are vital soft skills for supporting both animals and their owners. These competencies ensure high-quality patient care, efficient clinic operations, and positive client relationships in veterinary settings.

What is the difference between Animal Nursing vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAnimal NursingVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsCertification or diploma in animal careLicensed or certified veterinary technician credential
Work EnvironmentAnimal clinics, shelters, pet hospitalsVeterinary clinics, hospitals, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in pet care and animal sheltersStandard in veterinary medicine and animal healthcare
Job ResponsibilitiesBasic animal care, feeding, groomingAssisting veterinarians, performing medical procedures

Animal Nursing typically involves providing basic care and support for animals in various settings, often without requiring formal licensing. Veterinary Technicians, however, are licensed professionals with specialized training, performing medical tasks under veterinarian supervision. Both roles are essential in animal healthcare, but Veterinary Technicians have a broader scope of practice and formal credentials.

What are some common challenges faced by animal nurses in a veterinary clinic setting?

Animal nurses often encounter challenges such as managing the emotional stress of caring for sick or injured animals, handling unpredictable animal behavior, and balancing a fast-paced workload with the need for detailed record-keeping. Working in a team with veterinarians and other support staff requires clear communication, especially during emergencies or surgical procedures. Despite these challenges, animal nurses find the role rewarding as they directly contribute to animal health and client satisfaction.

What is animal nursing?

Animal nursing refers to the care and medical support provided to animals, typically under the supervision of a veterinarian. Animal nurses, often called veterinary nurses or veterinary technicians, assist with clinical procedures, administer medications, monitor patient recovery, and provide comfort to sick or injured animals. They play a crucial role in maintaining animal welfare within veterinary practices, animal hospitals, or shelters. Their responsibilities can also include client education and laboratory work.
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Animal Nursing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Nursing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,833 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
Animal Caretaker, Lead V

Animal Caretaker, Lead V

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

Bronx, NY • On-site

Other

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

Job description

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

The Lead Animal Caretaker is responsible for delegating routine animal care tasks and projects as well as performing the day to day animal care tasks.

    • Assist supervisor with organizing and delegating routine animal care tasks and projects assigned to animal caretaker teams at local sites;
    • Interact effectively with faculty members, technicians and students regarding animal care needs and problems;
    • Solve problems and relay information and requests to the facility supervisor or operations manager regarding more complex problems and requests;
    • Contact facility supervisor or operations manager to discuss daily routine, issues and/or problems;
    • Assist in training staff to perform all animal care responsibilities;
    • Assist in training staff to operate all animal care equipment (animal watering system, pressure washer, cage washers and autoclaves, biosafety and class 100 cabinets);
    • Insure all animal care equipment is operating correctly;
    • Control inventory and distribute supplies at the site. Inform facility supervisor or operations manager when supplies need to be replenished;
    • Oversee the maintenance of census sheets for animal rooms at the site;
    • Assist in the administration of medications and/or experimental compounds under the direction of the Veterinarian;
    • Recognize and report symptoms of animal disease or trauma and to assist in training staff to recognize and report symptoms;
    • Review staff reports regarding animal health;
    • Perform and oversee basic functions of animal nursing and/or first aid;
    • Perform animal duties as required and other related duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS

HS Diploma + 5 years' experience at Einstein + LAT certification required

The ideal candidate will possess good written and verbal communication skills

Due to the nature of the work, individual must be able to pay close attention to detail and must be physically fit to do heavy repetitive lifting and pushing of equipment daily

Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds

Must not be allergic to animals, latex, waste products, bedding or solutions

Hiring Rate29.01Post Probationary Rate29.54Job Rate30.77Hiring Rate based on 35 hours/week31.80Post Probationary Rate based on 35 hours/week32.37Job Rate based on 35 hours/week33.72Minimum Salary RangeMaximum Salary RangeEmployment Type: OTHER

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