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Animal Rescue Jobs in Anchorage, AK (NOW HIRING)

CSR

Anchorage, AK ยท On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

At VCA East Anchorage Animal Hospital, we take our mission statement - your pet's health is our top priority and excellent service is our goal - very seriously. With every opportunity, we aim to ...

CSR

Anchorage, AK ยท On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

At VCA East Anchorage Animal Hospital, we take our mission statement - your pet's health is our top priority and excellent service is our goal - very seriously. With every opportunity, we aim to ...

Relief Veterinary Assistant

Palmer, AK ยท On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Join the VCA Far Country Animal Hospital Team! Location: 2701 N Liahona Dr. Palmer, AK, 99645 We are a small animal, AAHA accredited general practice in the beautiful Matanuska Valley. Come enjoy the ...

Relief Veterinary Assistant

Palmer, AK ยท On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Join the VCA Far Country Animal Hospital Team! Location: 2701 N Liahona Dr. Palmer, AK, 99645 We are a small animal, AAHA accredited general practice in the beautiful Matanuska Valley. Come enjoy the ...

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Animal Rescue information

See Anchorage, AK salary details

$10

$21

$28

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Anchorage, AK is $21.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $25.53 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 Anchorage, AK?

The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Anchorage, AK are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Anchorage, AK look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Anchorage, AK are:

What cities near Anchorage, AK are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs?

Cities near Anchorage, AK with the most Animal Rescue job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Anchorage, AK as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,736 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Animal Control Officer

Denali Universal Services Recruiting

Anchorage, AK โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired 3 days ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Animal Control Officer

Make a Difference Every Day Denali Universal Services is seeking motivated and compassionate individuals to join our team as Animal Control Officers (ACO). In this role, you will help protect public safety, enforce animal control laws, and ensure the humane treatment of animals throughout the community. This is a hands-on, field-based position that combines enforcement, animal care, and public interaction.

Schedule: Full-time 40-Hours/Week

Key Responsibilities:

  • Patrol assigned areas to enforce animal licensing laws and humane care regulations
  • Capture and safely impound stray or dangerous animals
  • Investigate animal cruelty and ordinance violations
  • Issue citations and prepare cases for hearings or court testimony
  • Rescue trapped, injured, or at-risk animals
  • Maintain accurate reports, records, and documentation
  • Educate the public on responsible pet ownership, licensing, and animal welfare
  • Ensure humane treatment and proper care of all animals
  • Respond to calls for service and assist other agencies as needed

Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Either: Three (3) months of experience in code enforcement, law enforcement, or security OR one (1) year of experience in dispatch, customer service, or animal-related work (e.g., veterinary or shelter)
  • Formal education in a related field may substitute for up to three (3) months of experience
  • Experience (or willingness to learn) animal handling and care
  • Valid Alaska driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to remain calm and professional under stress
  • Reliable access to a smartphone for scheduling, timekeeping, and communication
  • Ability to pass a background check, drug screening, and physical/fitness evaluation

Work Environment:

  • Combination of indoor (kennel/office) and outdoor fieldwork
  • Exposure to weather conditions, noise, and odors
  • Interaction with animals that may be frightened, injured, or aggressive
  • Physical Requirements:
    • Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and perform physical tasks for extended periods
    • Frequent lifting, pushing, pulling, and handling of animals
    • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds regularly

Benefits:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Life insurance and short-term disability
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Apply Today! Join a team dedicated to public safety, animal welfare, and community service. Denali Universal Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer