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Animal Rescue Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Successful candidates hired into a Veterinary Technician I/II/III position in the College of Veterinary Medicine's Small Animal Intensive Care Unit between 2/1/2025 and 6/30/2026 may be eligible to ...

The candidate will also provide advanced nursing care to small animal ICU patients with the ability to recognize changes in the health of an animal. They should demonstrate attention to detail and ...

Vetco Relief Veterinarian - Ames, IA Petco Veterinary Services offers relief veterinarians the chance to work in two distinct settings: Vetco Vaccination Clinics and Vetco Total Care full-service ...

Experience with large animal or equine medicine * Organized, reliable, and team-focused * Able to lift 50+ lbs and work on your feet * Valid driver's license Schedule * Full-Time: Monday - Friday, 8 ...

Showing results 41-60

Animal Rescue information

See Ames, IA salary details

$9

$20

$27

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Ames, IA is $20.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $24.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become an animal rescuer?

To become an animal rescuer, you typically need to gain experience with animals through volunteering or working at shelters, and develop skills in handling and caring for animals. Some positions may require certifications in animal first aid or rescue techniques, and a compassionate attitude is essential for success in this field.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in Ames, IA? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Ames, IA are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,828 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

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Job description

Position Title:
Veterinary Technician
Job Group:
Merit
Required Minimum Qualifications:
• Associate or Bachelor's degree in a veterinary technology program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), and • Registered, licensed, or certified as a veterinary technician within one year of the start date.
Job Description:
Are you ready to advance your career as a Veterinary Technician in the Emergency and Critical Care department, working at the forefront of veterinary medicine, education, and research?
We're looking for you! Check out this great opportunity: Emergency-services
The Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center offers evaluation, medical care, and surgical treatment to animals with urgent medical needs 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
The LVMC provides specialized care and comprehensive medical and surgical services for companion and large animals throughout Iowa and surrounding states. Our clinicians, residents and interns, technicians, staff, and senior veterinary students work in teams to provide 24-hour, state-of-the-art care to animal patients.
Successful candidates hired into a Veterinary Technician I/II/III position in the College of Veterinary Medicine's Small Animal Intensive Care Unit between 2/1/2025 and 6/30/2026 may be eligible to receive a recruitment incentive of $1,000. Payment terms and conditions will be provided in a payment agreement.
This Level I position provides care and assistance to patients under the supervision of Clinicians and House Officers at Iowa State University Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center within the Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care Department. Responsibilities include the ability to proficiently perform technical skills, provide nursing care to small animal ICU patients, and coordinate and assist with patient diagnostics, procedures, and other necessary treatments. Instruct and demonstrate veterinary care and technical skills to 4th-year veterinary students.
The successful candidate will be well-rounded and possess multitasking skills to triage and help stabilize incoming ER patients. The candidate will also provide advanced nursing care to small animal ICU patients with the ability to recognize changes in the health of an animal. They should demonstrate attention to detail and have excellent communication skills to effectively interact with students, faculty, house officers, and staff members.
At Iowa State University's Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center (LVMC), you'll collaborate with a team of experts in diagnosis, treatment, and education while making a meaningful impact on the future of veterinary medicine.
Under the direction and supervision of a licensed Veterinarian, it provides advanced care for ill and injured animal patients or animals used in a clinical or hospital setting.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship.
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
• Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.
Appointment Type:
Regular
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Grade:
7601a
Original Posting Date:
July 7, 2026
Posting Close Date:
Job Requisition Number:
R19572
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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