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Animal Rescue Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

As one of the largest animal shelters in the Nation, we need your support to make a difference! We want you to be our next diligent Animal Care Associate, providing daily care and support for our ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced veterinarian (DVM) to join our team as Medical ... Additionally, we treat exotic pets (plus occasionally work with a local wildlife rescue), offering ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced veterinarian (DVM) to join our team as Medical ... Additionally, we treat exotic pets (plus occasionally work with a local wildlife rescue), offering ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced veterinarian (DVM) to join our team as Medical ... Additionally, we treat exotic pets (plus occasionally work with a local wildlife rescue), offering ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join our ... We see small animals and exotics and occasionally work with the local wildlife rescue. We're an ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced veterinarian (DVM) to join our team as Medical ... Additionally, we treat exotic pets (plus occasionally work with a local wildlife rescue), offering ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced veterinarian (DVM) to join our team as Medical ... Additionally, we treat exotic pets (plus occasionally work with a local wildlife rescue), offering ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join our ... We see small animals and exotics and occasionally work with the local wildlife rescue. We're an ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join our ... We see small animals and exotics and occasionally work with the local wildlife rescue. We're an ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join our ... We see small animals and exotics and occasionally work with the local wildlife rescue. We're an ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join our ... We see small animals and exotics and occasionally work with the local wildlife rescue. We're an ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join our ... We see small animals and exotics and occasionally work with the local wildlife rescue. We're an ...

AZ

$50K/yr

To be referred for consideration for the Animal Health Technician (Mounted Patrol Inspector), candidates must meet the selective placement factor as described below. This is a minimum qualification ...

AZ · On-site

$50K/yr

To be referred for consideration for the Animal Health Technician (Mounted Patrol Inspector), candidates must meet the selective placement factor as described below. This is a minimum qualification ...

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Animal Rescue information

See Arizona salary details

$9

$19

$25

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Arizona is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $23.32 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, relevant experience with animals, and strong compassion. Volunteering at shelters or rescue organizations can provide valuable skills, and some roles may require certifications in animal care or first aid.

What degree do I need for animal rescue?

Animal rescue jobs typically do not require a specific degree, but a background in animal science, biology, or related fields can be beneficial. Relevant skills include animal handling, first aid, and knowledge of animal behavior, and certifications such as pet first aid or CPR can enhance employability.

What is animal rescue?

Animal rescue refers to the process of saving animals from dangerous, abusive, or neglectful situations and providing them with shelter, medical care, and rehabilitation. Animal rescue organizations work to protect stray, abandoned, or mistreated animals, often finding them foster or permanent homes. The main goal is to ensure the well-being and safety of animals, promoting responsible pet ownership and preventing cruelty. Rescued animals may include pets like dogs and cats, as well as wildlife in distress. Volunteers and professionals collaborate to give these animals a second chance at life.

Do animal rescues pay employees?

Animal rescue organizations may pay employees, especially those in full-time or specialized roles, but many positions are volunteer-based. Salaries can vary depending on the organization, location, and job responsibilities, with some rescues offering stipends or part-time wages. Certification in animal care or related skills can improve employment prospects and pay rates.

What are some common challenges faced by animal rescue professionals, and how can they effectively address them?

Animal rescue professionals often encounter emotionally challenging situations, such as witnessing animal neglect or working with traumatized animals. They may also face physical demands, unpredictable schedules, and the need to make quick decisions in high-stress environments. Building emotional resilience, practicing self-care, and collaborating closely with veterinary staff, volunteers, and local authorities can help manage these challenges. Additionally, ongoing training and open communication within the team are essential for maintaining a supportive work environment and ensuring the best outcomes for rescued animals.

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

To thrive as an Animal Rescue Worker, you need knowledge of animal handling, first aid, and welfare, often supported by relevant certifications or experience with animals. Familiarity with animal control software, rescue equipment, and sometimes animal transport vehicles is typically required. Compassion, resilience, and strong communication skills are vital for building trust with animals and collaborating with the public and rescue organizations. These skills ensure the safety, effective care, and successful rehoming of animals in challenging and often urgent situations.

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

AspectAnimal RescueAnimal Shelter Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; certifications in animal handling or rescue techniquesHigh school diploma; training in animal care and shelter operations
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, outdoor rescues, emergency situationsIndoor shelter facilities, animal care areas
Employer & Industry UsageRescue organizations, non-profits, government agenciesShelters, humane societies, animal control agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Animal Rescue involves actively seeking out and rescuing animals in distress, often in outdoor or emergency settings. Animal Shelter Workers primarily care for animals within shelter facilities, focusing on daily care and adoption processes. Both roles require animal handling skills and work within animal welfare organizations, but their work environments and specific duties differ significantly.

What is the highest paid job working with animals?

The highest paid jobs working with animals typically include veterinary surgeons and specialized animal researchers, with veterinarians earning a median annual salary of around $100,000 or more. Advanced roles such as zoo directors or animal pharmacologists may also command higher salaries, especially with extensive experience and advanced certifications.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,800 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Animal Care Associate

$18.50 - $30.50/hr

Other

Medical, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Maricopa County rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

332nd of 649 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Posting Date

06/10/26

Application Deadline

06/30/26

Pay Range

Anticipated Hiring Range: $18.50 - $24.50 hourly
Full Pay Range: $18.50 - $30.50 hourly
Salary offers are based on the candidate's equivalent experience and internal equity with other employees within the same job classification. This position is eligible for overtime compensation for all hours worked over 40 in the designated workweek.

Job Type

Unclassified

Department

Animal Care and Control

About the Position

Are you a passionate animal advocate motivated to care for animals by providing a clean, caring kennel environment for the dogs in our care?

As one of the largest animal shelters in the Nation, we need your support to make a difference! We want you to be our next diligent Animal Care Associate, providing daily care and support for our shelter dogs. You'll be an advocate for dogs and promote the health, safety, and welfare of the people and animals of Maricopa County.

This position requires the employee to be in the office and customer-facing for all hours worked.

About Us

Maricopa County Animal Care & Control employees are committed to animal welfare and strengthening the human-animal bond in our community, and we are always looking to add talented individuals to our team, either at our West or East Valley Animal Care Centers. As one of the nation's largest open-admission shelters, we work with our community to serve the animals and people of Maricopa County. Our adoptions, shelter, clinic, and animal services officer teams learn first-hand about the proper care of homeless and stray animals and work hard to help find them new homes.

Proud to Offer

  • Work with a greater purpose

  • Tuition reimbursement

  • Exceptional work-life balance

  • Opportunities for growth and development within Maricopa County

  • Low-cost, high-value healthcare for you and your qualifying dependents

  • Child care benefits, including access to our on-site centerMaricopa County Kids Club, dedicated to serving Maricopa County families

  • Paid vacation, sick time, and parental leave

  • Extensive wellness program, including an incentive

  • Enrollment in the Arizona State Retirement System, a defined retirement benefit requiring a 12% per paycheck contribution rate that includes a 100% employer match on Day 1

  • Want to learn more about the County's Qualifying and Compensation Philosophy? Follow this link to learn more! Work With Us | Maricopa County, AZ

We Require

  • Six months of experience working with animals in a veterinary hospital, humane society, or other animal facility

  • High school diploma or GED

Other Requirements

  • Candidates must be flexible and able to work all shifts, including starting as early as 6 AM and finishing as late as 7 PM. Weekends and holidays are required. Shelter Associates are assigned on any shift, with any combination of days off, determined by the needs of the Department.

  • May be assigned to work at other shelter locations based on operational needs.

  • Must complete department-required animal handling training within 30 days of hire.

We Also Value

  • Six months of in-person customer service work experience

  • Six months of kennel cleaning experience

  • Experience working in high temperatures

Job Contributions

  • Perform animal care and related duties, including feeding, cleaning, exercising, and monitoring the behavior and health of animals in our care.

  • Responsible for the daily care of animals, including providing appropriate food and water, cleaning animal kennels, and performing general housekeeping of the shelter.

  • Ensure all shelter animals are properly housed and cared for in accordance with the Five Domains of Animal Welfare, and that positive reinforcement training and Fear Free methods are utilized.

  • Follow all feeding, handling, and care policies and expectations within the guidelines of the Five Domains of Animal Welfare, and ensure low-stress handling and Fear Free methods are used.

  • Conduct daily shelter welfare rounds, assist with the movement of animals, and record and address concerns following standard protocols.

  • Ensure shelter areas, such as yards and meet-and-greet rooms, are maintained throughout the day. Keeps supply areas stocked and clean, and ensures tools and equipment are kept in good working order. Reports broke items in a timely manner.

  • Updates animal records and performs data entry at the shelter, including animal identification information, photographs, kennel cards, animal bios, and medical and behavior information. Ensures animal records are updated throughout the shelter stay process.

  • Assist with in-shelter animal adoption meet-and-greets by interacting with customers in person and providing exceptional customer service.

  • Assist with in-shelter animal enrichment in accordance with the daily enrichment schedules.

  • Other job duties as assigned

Working Conditions

  • Work is performed in an animal shelter with exposure to extreme and varying temperatures, excessive noise, dogs and cats with unknown temperaments or behaviors, animal waste and fluids, deceased animals, cleaning chemicals, and zoonotic diseases.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and walk on various surfaces that are sometimes slippery, uneven, or rough.

  • Exerting 50-100 lbs. occasionally, 10-25 lbs. frequently, or up to 10-20 lbs. constantly

Selection Procedure

  • Consideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applications

  • Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile

  • Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy, including drug and alcohol testing requirements for positions designated as safety-sensitive

Maricopa County is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process or to perform the essential functions of the position under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please contact MHRFeedback@maricopa.gov to initiate the interactive process.

Apply Now!


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