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Animal Rescue Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Animal House

Animal Care Technician

Jacksonville, NC · On-site

$12/hr

Job Type Part-time Description Animal House Jacksonville is seeking an experienced Animal Care Tech with a passion for providing top notch care, and a desire to grow with a company of like-minded ...

Adecco

Animal Technician

Durham, NC · On-site

Laboratory Animal Care Technician Adecco Healthcare & Life Sciences is hiring for a leading global animal health organization known for advancing veterinary medicine, animal health, and scientific ...

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All JobsAnimal Rescue JobsAnimal Rescue Jobs in North Carolina

Animal Rescue information

See North Carolina salary details

$8

$19

$25

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in North Carolina is $19.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $22.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in North Carolina?

The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in North Carolina are:

What are popular job titles related to Animal Rescue jobs in North Carolina?

For Animal Rescue jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in North Carolina look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in North Carolina are:

What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs?

Cities in North Carolina with the most Animal Rescue job openings:

Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,790 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Student - Animal Rescue League of NH Shelter Assistant (Work-Study Only)

Snhu

Lumberton, NC

$13 - $15/hr

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Southern New Hampshire University is a team of innovators. World changers. Individuals who believe in progress with purpose. Since 1932, our people-centered strategy has defined us - and helped us grow a team that now serves over 180,000 learners worldwide.

Our mission to transform lives is made possible by talented people who bring diverse industry experience, backgrounds and skills to the university. And today, we're ready to expand our reach. All we need is you.

The opportunity

Southern New Hampshire University is seeking a student employee to fill the role of Shelter Assistant for our partner organization, Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire in Bedford, NH. The Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire (ARLNH) cares for over 2,000 animals each year. Our mission is made possible by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who work together to ensure every animal receives compassionate care during their time with us. As a Shelter Assistant, you'll play a vital role in the daily operations that keep our shelter running smoothly. This includes cleaning, doing laundry, organizing supplies, helping in our pet food pantry, and most importantly, helping provide a calm, healthy environment for the animals in our care. Our shelter serves as a temporary home for these animals, and we strive to make their stay as comfortable and low-stress as possible. This is a great opportunity for college students interested in animal care, behavior, or veterinary fields. You'll gain hands-on experience learning about animal behavior and stress signals, while supporting a meaningful cause. Join us in making a difference-one animal at a time.

Job Responsibilities

Shelter Assistants support the daily operations of the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire by assisting with a variety of essential shelter tasks and animal care routines. Responsibilities include:

  • Assisting with animal care and shelter maintenance during morning and evening shifts
  • Feeding animals and ensuring fresh water is always available
  • Cleaning kennels, cat condos, and small animal enclosures to maintain a safe and sanitary environment.
  • Doing laundry and organizing supplies to support daily shelter operations
  • Sorting, organizing, and helping distribute donations, including food and supplies
  • Supporting ARLNH's Pet Food Pantry Program by helping organize and prepare food donations for families in need
  • Assisting with evening closing procedures to ensure the building is secure and animals are settled for the night
  • Performing other duties as assigned by ARLNH staff to ensure the well-being of animals and the smooth operation of the shelter
  • This hands-on role is ideal for individuals who are detail-oriented, dependable, and passionate about animal welfare.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Current enrollment in classes as part of a SNHU degree program
  • Work study part of financial aid package
  • Students with work study may be prioritized
  • Reliable transportation
  • Comfortable working with animals of all sizes and temperaments, as well as occasionally interacting with members of the public
  • Ability to follow directions accurately and work independently with minimal supervision
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with staff, volunteers, and visitors Excellent organizational skills and keen attention to detail to support daily shelter operations
  • Ability to safely lift and carry bags of pet food or supplies weighing up to 40 lbs

Learning Outcomes (NACE Competencies)

  • Gain hands-on experience in the daily care and handling of a variety of animal species
  • Develop strong organizational and time management skills through routine shelter operations
  • Strengthen the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment
  • Enhance communication and interpersonal skills through interactions with shelter staff, volunteers, and members of the community
  • Build a solid foundation in animal welfare practices and shelter operations, valuable for future careers in veterinary care, animal behavior, or nonprofit work

Work Schedule

Flexible, daily between shelter hours 8-5pm

We believe real innovation comes from inclusion - where different experiences, perspectives and talents are celebrated. So if you're wondering whether SNHU is right for you, take the leap and apply. You might be just the person we're looking for.

Compensation

The hourly pay range for this position is $13.00 - $15.00. Actual offer will be based on skills, qualifications, experience and internal equity, in addition to relevant business considerations.

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