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Animal Rescue Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Animal Control Officer

Lihue, HI · On-site

$34 - $36/hr

The Kauai Humane Society (KHS) seeks a Animal Control Officer to assist with dispatch, rescue, and response for dogs and cats, and minor livestock counsel assistance, as it pertains to the Kauai ...

Animal Control Officer

Pecos, TX · On-site

$37K - $49K/yr

Officers may also have to investigate and rescue animals in fight rings. This includes taking animals involved in fighting and baiting animals away from the environment and into a safe place.Animal ...

Animal Control Officer

Lihue, HI · On-site

$34 - $36/hr

The Kauai Humane Society (KHS) seeks a Animal Control Officer to assist with dispatch, rescue, and response for dogs and cats, and minor livestock counsel assistance, as it pertains to the Kauai ...

Animal Control Officer

Pecos, TX · On-site

$37K - $49K/yr

Officers may also have to investigate and rescue animals in fight rings. This includes taking animals involved in fighting and baiting animals away from the environment and into a safe place. Animal ...

Officers may also have to investigate and rescue animals in fight rings. This includes taking animals involved in fighting and baiting animals away from the environment and into a safe place. Animal ...

Animal Services Officer

Lewisville, TX · On-site

$45K - $48K/yr

Position Summary The Animal Services Officer position is part of a job family progression, offering ... Assists with adoptions, owner reunifications, rescue coordination, volunteer activities, foster ...

SVP Chief Mission Officer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Areas of Responsibility The SVP, CMO provides executive leadership for Animal Care, Animal Health, Animal Welfare Science, Animal Rescue, Dive Safety, Mission-Related Programming, and Wildlife and ...

SVP Chief Mission Officer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Areas of Responsibility The SVP, CMO provides executive leadership for Animal Care, Animal Health, Animal Welfare Science, Animal Rescue, Dive Safety, Mission-Related Programming, and Wildlife and ...

SVP Chief Mission Officer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Areas of Responsibility The SVP, CMO provides executive leadership for Animal Care, Animal Health, Animal Welfare Science, Animal Rescue, Dive Safety, Mission-Related Programming, and Wildlife and ...

Showing results 21-40

Animal Rescue Officer information

See salary details

$30K

$49.3K

$72K

How much do animal rescue officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal rescue officer in the United States is $49,264.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $55,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an animal rescue officer do?

An Animal Rescue Officer is responsible for responding to reports of animals in distress, rescuing injured or abandoned animals, and ensuring their safety and well-being. They often work with local authorities and animal shelters to provide emergency care, transport, and sometimes rehabilitation for animals in need. Their duties may also include investigating cases of animal cruelty or neglect, educating the public about animal welfare, and enforcing animal protection laws. Animal Rescue Officers play a crucial role in promoting humane treatment and safeguarding the welfare of animals in their communities.

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

To thrive as an Animal Rescue Officer, you need knowledge of animal behavior, basic veterinary care, and relevant animal welfare legislation, often supported by an animal care qualification or relevant experience. Familiarity with animal handling equipment, rescue vehicles, and incident reporting systems is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and emotional resilience are crucial soft skills for interacting with the public and managing distressing situations. These skills ensure the safe and effective rescue of animals, public safety, and compliance with legal and ethical standards.

What are some common challenges animal rescue officers face when responding to emergency calls?

Animal Rescue Officers often encounter situations that require quick decision-making and adaptability, such as animals in distress, unpredictable environments, and emotionally charged interactions with the public. They may need to safely handle frightened or injured animals and navigate challenging locations like busy roads or difficult terrain. Collaboration with local authorities, veterinarians, and shelter staff is crucial to ensure the best outcomes for both animals and people. These challenges make strong communication skills, resilience, and a compassionate approach essential in the role.

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

AspectAnimal Rescue OfficerAnimal Shelter Worker
CertificationsAnimal handling, CPR, first aid, sometimes law enforcement or animal control certificationsAnimal care, handling, basic first aid, shelter management certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork outdoors, rescue operations, animal control settingsIndoor shelter facilities, animal care areas
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, animal control departments, rescue organizationsAnimal shelters, rescue centers, non-profit organizations

Animal Rescue Officers primarily focus on rescuing animals from dangerous situations and enforcing animal control laws in the field. In contrast, Animal Shelter Workers typically care for animals within shelter facilities, assisting with daily operations and adoption processes. Both roles require animal handling skills, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

Is it hard to be an animal rescue officer?

Being an animal rescue officer can be physically and emotionally demanding, as it involves handling distressed or injured animals and working in unpredictable environments. The job often requires strong communication skills, physical stamina, and sometimes certifications in animal care or first aid, with irregular hours including nights and weekends.

What degree is needed to be an animal rescue officer?

Animal rescue officers typically do not require a specific degree but benefit from a background in animal science, biology, or related fields. Relevant skills include animal handling, first aid, and knowledge of local wildlife or domestic animals, and certifications such as animal rescue or first aid can enhance employability.

Who are the top companies hiring for Animal Rescue Officer jobs?

The top employers for Animal Rescue Officer jobs are:

What states have the most Animal Rescue Officer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Animal Rescue Officer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Animal Rescue Officer jobs?

For Animal Rescue Officer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Animal Rescue Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,264 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Chief Rescue and Programs Logistics Officer

Keenesburg, CO • On-site

The Wild Animal Sanctuary
Non-Profits • 51 - 200 employees

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Chief Rescue and Programs Logistics Officer

Status: Exempt Full-Time – Experienced -Level (Classification 8810)

No Remote- In-Office Position other than Regular Travel

Salary: Annual- Starting at $120,000

Benefits: After 60 Days: Medical, Dental, and Vision Offered

Primary Function: Rescue Management & Coordination / Overseeing Refuge Facilities

Direct Supervisor: Executive Director

Organization Overview

Our Non-Profit Organization has a positive mission and team environment!

This isn’t the Peace Corps… and we’re not the Marines… but if you combined the two concepts, and applied them toward helping animals through hard work, personal sacrifice and steadfast dedication, then you would know what we are all about. If being able to make a real and tangible difference in this world fuels your spirit - as does giving to others for the right reasons - then you are not alone.Our team members openly and gladly devote their lives to a singular cause that is hands‑on, challenging, innovative, taxing and pushes limits. They are the best of the best!

The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a place where motivated individuals can immerse themselves into a dedicated community, working side by side to provide a safe‑haven for rescued animals to live out the rest of their lives with dignity and respect. We are so much more than a workplace. We are a team committed to service, to bettering our communities, and the world. If you have a strong work ethic, leadership skills, and a desire to join a good cause, apply for our Chief Rescue and Programs Logistics Officer today!

Job Summary

Rescue Management & Coordination 40% Overseeing Refuge Facilities 30%

Coordination of Events 10% Perform other Job Duties as assigned 10%

Job Description

The Chief Rescue and Programs Officer will support all strategic Rescue efforts for our non‑profit organization working alongside the Executive Director by coordinating, managing, evaluating, and refining the Rescue activities, with an emphasis on permitting and legal compliance through entities including but not limited to; GFAS/USDA/CDOW accreditations/inspections. This role personally identifies, cultivates, solicits, and stewards any rescues and prospects while maintaining relationships in accordance with organizational procedures and goals. Incorporates collaborative relationships with organizations or affiliates across the world while coordinating solicitation efforts, developing internal processes and procedures, and aligning rescue and outreach efforts for all three facilities. Occasional oversight of other Refuge Facilities. This position will not only review and process the whole rescue operation under the guidance of our ED but also travel to all rescue locations to ensure the full oversight of each mission including being responsible for all paperwork associated. All duties and tasks must be handled with upmost professionalism as this position is widely known and is a representation of our Sanctuary Globally.

Minimum Job Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree preferred; at least 3‑5 years of documented development professional experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified or combined education with experience -High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Experience in a nonprofit sector preferred
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Excellent Time Management and Organizational Skills
  • S. Passport & Valid Driver’s License
  • Knowledge and familiarity with Animal Behavior, safety best practices, local, state, and federal animal laws
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., flexible to bend, crouch, crawl
  • Willingness to be flexible with work times including evenings, weekends, and occasional irregular hours due to rescues or missions
  • Can make good sound judgement or critical decisions
Required/Other Qualifications
  • Must reside locally as this is an in‑office non‑remote position.
  • Demonstrated history of taking initiative to proactively solve issues and/or recommend solutions which impact an organization’s success.
  • Solid understanding and high expectations of managing high volumes of emails, phone calls, and communications that have high importance
  • Able to perform tasks on software programs (Excel, Word, etc…)
  • Able to maintain confidentiality; demonstrates sound judgement and discretion including following all policies with picture taking and photo posting.
  • Ability to liaise with other departments to achieve a common goal
  • Political or Law Enforcement coordination including professional communication
  • Must adhere to al of TWAS guidelines and directives
Functions/Job Duties
  • Prepare all rescue plans and ensure compliance to all affiliated parties
  • Monitor all upcoming events, missions, or tasks related to the position
  • Perform research on various projects to prepare all projections for travel including items
  • Develop and coordinate all rescue plans of action
  • Achieve all organizational objectives
  • Maintain an effective network of all rescue community/organization partnerships
  • Provide and support all resources for rescue missions including some events
  • Manages all reporting documentation and tracks tasks in database and electronic/hard‑copy filing system
  • Analyze all contract procedures and assist to implement all adjusted needs
  • Develop and maintain professional relationships with all parties including Veterinarian contacts.
  • Perform regular data entry and research for each project assigned
  • Evaluates, writes, edits, and/or oversees the preparation of persuasive, accurate, and grammatically and syntactically correct solicitations, proposals, case statement, reports, correspondence, and other related communication materials in support of the organization’s mission/rescues activities.
  • Able to oversee Refuge locations and evaluate relationships, procedures, and department tasks.
  • Regular Travel is required including out of country.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Personal Characteristics
  • Self‑motivated and results‑oriented
  • Well‑polished in speech and professional
  • Flexible, ability to adapt to change and shifting priorities and to work simultaneously on a variety of complex projects
  • Friendly, patient, a good listener, and a heart for animals
  • Desire to learn, grow, and be coached
  • Contribute to a positive culture

As you can see, we are looking for people who possess strong foundational skills with an attitude to succeed.If you are looking for a challenging and a rewarding service opportunity with real purpose, you have found the right opportunity!

Clear Focus

The above Job Description is intended to describe the general duties/nature of the level of work being performed. This Job Description is not to be constructed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, and skills required. Job Descriptions are somewhat fluid and will change depending on the Organization’s strategic direction and overall objectives accordingly.

Background Check Statement

Approval for Hiring is contingent upon successfully passing a background check prior to your Hiring/Acceptance/Offer. This background check does not report to any credit bureau and no impact will be seen on the applicants side. This process helps the Company screen for any past background experiences that pose a threat or a discrepancy to the Organization, as TWAS does not hire any violent offenders, or individuals that have been charged criminally involving endangering/threatening/hurting children and/or animals. By applying you are authorizing The Wild Animal Sanctuary to perform this background check.

EEOC Statement

Our Non‑Profit organization, 'The Wild Animal Sanctuary' is an equal opportunity employer.All applicants will be considered foremploymentwithout attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.

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