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How much do animal rescue jobs jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue jobs in the United States is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become an animal rescue worker?

To become an animal rescue worker, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience volunteering or working with animals. Skills such as animal handling, first aid, and knowledge of animal behavior are important, and some positions may require certifications in pet CPR or animal care. Gaining experience through volunteering at shelters or rescue organizations can also improve job prospects.

What is the highest paying job working with animals?

The highest paying jobs working with animals include veterinary surgeons and specialized animal researchers, with veterinarians earning a median salary of around $100,000 annually. Advanced roles such as zoo directors or animal behavior specialists can also command higher salaries, especially with extensive experience and certifications.

What qualifications do animal rescuers need?

Animal rescue workers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience working with animals. Certifications in animal first aid or CPR can be beneficial, and physical stamina is important due to the demands of the job. Strong communication skills and a compassionate attitude are also essential for success in this role.

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

AspectAnimal Rescue JobsAnimal Shelter Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in animal care or rescueHigh school diploma, basic animal handling certifications
Work EnvironmentField rescue sites, outdoor and varied locationsAnimal shelters, indoor facilities
Employer & IndustryRescue organizations, non-profits, government agenciesShelters, humane societies, non-profits
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Animal Rescue Jobs involve actively seeking out and rescuing animals in the field, often outdoors and in various environments. Animal Shelter Workers primarily work indoors at shelters, caring for animals and assisting with adoptions. Both roles require animal care skills, but rescue jobs focus more on field operations, while shelter work emphasizes daily animal care and shelter management.

Is animal rescue a good career path?

Animal rescue jobs involve caring for and rehabilitating animals in shelters or rescue organizations, often requiring compassion, physical stamina, and knowledge of animal behavior. While it can be rewarding for those passionate about animals, it is typically a low-paying field with physically demanding work and irregular hours. Success in this career often depends on experience, certifications, and a strong commitment to animal welfare.
What cities are hiring for Animal Rescue Jobs jobs? Cities with the most Animal Rescue Jobs job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue Jobs 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 $43,783 per year, or $21 per hour.

Animal Rescue & Control (ARC) Dispatcher

Peninsula Humane Society

San Mateo, CA • On-site

$22.66 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Dispatcher

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt, Union (Full Time)

Salary: $22.66 - $24.00 per hour, depending on experience

Excellent benefit package provided

Who We Are: Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA (PHS/SPCA) is a local, private, non-profit charitable organization dedicated to animal welfare. It is our mission is to build healthy relationships between people and animals. PHS/SPCA is truly an open admission shelter, not only accepting many pet animals who might be refused at other shelters, but also taking care of injured and orphaned native wildlife from San Francisco through San Mateo and the northern half of Santa Clara County. Our work means 6,300 lives saved each year. To learn more about us, visit www.phs-spca.org.

Who You Are: A firm believer in humane care and kind treatment of animals. You have excellent customer service, responding to inquires and requests in a positive, friendly and professional manner. You operate the dispatch system, answer calls, and requests for service in accordance with the policies and procedures of the organization. This position is represented by Union Local 856. Position must be performed on-site.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Receive, screen, dispatch, transfer, and/or monitor service requests from the public and other agencies in the appropriate order and priority level.
  • Maintain awareness of multiple staff members’ activities and locations while providing assistance as necessary to ensure adequate safety and completion of duties.
  • Provide exemplary customer service to members of our community and local agencies requesting our assistance. This may include problem solving during high stress situations on the phone and via email.
  • Process, file, proofread, submit, and maintain documents, including but not limited to mail, Animal Bite Reports, statistical reports, Dangerous/Vicious Animal case files, Public Safety Reports, and citations.
  • Review and correct completed Animal Bite Reports and submitting all final reports to San Mateo County.
  • Maintain a current list of all San Mateo County Dangerous Animal Permits and enter annual renewals with 100% accuracy.
  • Assist management with compiling statistical data and completing reports.
  • Monitor and respond as needed to public emails and voicemails.
  • Operate a two-way radio in a professional manner.
  • Answer questions and advise the public regarding animal welfare issues, state and local ordinances, rabies observation quarantines, wildlife concerns and behavior, and related issues.
  • Occasionally may be required to interact with the public at the shelter. This may include assisting in the completion of Animal Bite Reports.
  • Quickly assess and screen potential requests for service regarding domestic or wild animals, rescue situations, and/or other complex situations where our department involvement may be necessary.
  • Provide assistance to other departments as assigned or as necessary.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to ensure a positive public image, enhance the operation of the organization, and improve the quality of life for animals in our care and in our community.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Upon hire, must pass a background check.
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or six months to one-year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Must have a flexible schedule, and the ability to work irregular hours, weekends, holidays and standby as needed.
  • Must be able to multitask at a high level and communicate effectively within a fast-paced work environment.
  • Individual must have a pleasant demeanor and be accustomed to working in a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment.
  • Good oral and written communication skills.
  • Knowledge of Chameleon database software or become proficient within the first six months from hire date. Basic knowledge or become proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook), computer keyboarding (30WPM), and data entry skills.

Excellent Benefits Package Available

  • Medical /Dental /Vision/Life/ Flex Spending
  • Sick, Vacation and Holiday pay
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Retirement plan & employer matching

Available to all employees with pets:

  • Free vaccines, spay/neuter, microchipping, and two pet adoptions
  • Discounted euthanasia services/cremation, bloodwork, urinalysis, prescription food, and discounts at our retail stores.

For more information about our available job opportunities and how to apply, please visit our website at www.phs-spca.org/careers

The Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA is an equal opportunity employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. EOE/M/F/D/V/SO