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Animal Rescue Coordinator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Police Officer

Vienna, VA · On-site

$69K/yr

Answers calls for service dealing with animal complaints. Controls traffic when road conditions are ... Performs coordinating work involving guidelines and rules, with constant problem solving; requires ...

Answers calls for service dealing with animal complaints. Controls traffic when road conditions are ... Performs coordinating work involving guidelines and rules, with constant problem solving; requires ...

Animal Rescue Coordinator information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$23

$37

How much do animal rescue coordinator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue coordinator in Virginia is $23.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Animal Rescue Coordinator vs Animal Shelter Worker?

AspectAnimal Rescue CoordinatorAnimal Shelter Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma; certifications in animal handling and rescueHigh school diploma; basic animal care training
Work EnvironmentField rescues, shelters, community eventsAnimal shelters, kennels, adoption centers
Employer & IndustryRescue organizations, shelters, NGOsAnimal shelters, municipal facilities
Primary FocusRescuing, assessing, and coordinating animal careFeeding, cleaning, and caring for animals in shelter

Animal Rescue Coordinators focus on rescuing animals from emergencies and coordinating their care, often working in the field. Animal Shelter Workers primarily handle daily care and maintenance within shelters. Both roles are vital in animal welfare but differ in scope and work environment.

What does an animal rescue coordinator do?

An Animal Rescue Coordinator is responsible for organizing and overseeing the rescue, transport, and care of animals in need, such as those abandoned, injured, or affected by disasters. They work closely with animal shelters, veterinary staff, volunteers, and sometimes law enforcement to ensure animals receive proper treatment and are placed in safe environments. Their duties often include coordinating rescue operations, managing foster programs, maintaining records, and educating the public about animal welfare. This role requires strong organizational and communication skills, as well as a passion for helping animals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal rescue coordinator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Rescue Coordinator, you need knowledge of animal welfare, strong organizational skills, and usually experience or education in animal care or a related field. Familiarity with animal shelter management software, basic first aid for animals, and sometimes certifications in animal handling or rescue operations are typical requirements. Compassion, crisis management, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating rescues and interacting with the public and partner organizations. These abilities ensure smooth rescue operations, animal safety, and successful collaboration with diverse stakeholders in often urgent situations.

What are some common challenges animal rescue coordinators face when managing multiple rescue cases simultaneously?

Animal Rescue Coordinators often juggle several rescue cases at once, which can present challenges such as prioritizing urgent cases, coordinating with various agencies, and managing limited resources like transport and foster homes. Effective time management and strong communication skills are essential to ensure that each animal receives timely care and that all stakeholders are kept informed. Additionally, coordinators must stay adaptable, as emergencies can arise unexpectedly and require quick decision-making to achieve the best outcomes for the animals.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Rescue Coordinator jobs in Virginia? For Animal Rescue Coordinator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue Coordinator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue Coordinator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Animal Rescue Coordinator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Animal Rescue Coordinator job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue Coordinator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,137 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Animal Rights Policy Associate- Office of the President

PETA Foundation

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Company Description

This job is posted by The PETA Foundation on behalf of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. The PETA Foundation formed in 1993 to provide general and administrative support services to PETA and certain other charitable animal protection organizations, including accounting and legal services, creative consultation, employee benefit administration,  and employee recruitment.


About PETA

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), with more than 2 million members and supporters, is the largest animal rights organization in the world.

PETA focuses its attention on the four areas in which the largest numbers of animals suffer the most intensely for the longest periods of time: factory farms, laboratories, the clothing trade, and the entertainment industry. PETA also works on a variety of other issues, including the cruel killing of beavers, birds, and other "pests" and the abuse of "backyard" dogs.

PETA works through public education, cruelty investigations, research, animal rescue, legislation, special events, celebrity involvement, and protest campaigns.


If you are curious to see what life is really like at PETA or the PETA Foundation, check out the Tagboard for #PETAlife!


https://tagboard.com/petalife/158654 



Read more: http://www.peta.org/about-peta/work-at-peta/#ixzz2xfCe3PI8 

Job Description

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is searching for a full-time policy associate to support our efforts to put an end to animal abuse worldwide. This role is responsible for a combination of administrative, research, and advocacy-related tasks. Reporting directly to the president, with wide latitude for independent initiative and judgment, this role coordinates the planning, organization, and development of specific projects in order to accomplish the goals of the organization most effectively.

Primary Responsibilities and Duties:

Coordinate and perform in-depth analyses in order to suggest strategies

Develop and maintain productive relationships to implement PETA's advocacy initiatives effectively

Prepare reports, briefings, presentations, and responses on strategic issues

Draft correspondence and respond to inquiries and requests, utilizing discretion and independent judgment

Oversee Web content related to assigned projects

Travel within and outside the U.S. on assignments

Perform any other duties assigned by the supervisor

Qualifications

Degree in a related field or equivalent experience

Minimum of three years of professional experience

Strong working knowledge of animal rights issues and PETA campaigns

Excellent professional research skills, with the ability to conduct research on complicated issues, especially in circumstances in which information availability is limited

Proven ability to handle confidential information with discretion

Demonstrated excellent written and verbal communication skills

Demonstrated ability to organize and manage multiple projects

Proven ability to exercise independent judgment

Proven ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines

Previous public-speaking experience and the ability to comfortably create and deliver presentations

Professional appearance and adherence to a vegan lifestyle

Ability and willingness to travel

Ability to lift and carry 20 lbs.

Must be at least 21 years of age and have a valid U.S. driver's license, a minimum of three years of driving experience, and a satisfactory driving record

Support for PETA's philosophy and the ability to professionally advocate PETA's positions on issues

Commitment to the objectives of the organization

Additional Information