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Animal Rescue Jobs in Boulder, CO (NOW HIRING)

City of Aurora

Animal Protection Officer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$24.55 - $30.69/hr

Neighborhood Support, Animal Services, Housing and Community Development, and Community Engagement. The mission of the Housing and Community Development Department is to maintain community appearance ...

CityVet

Animal Care Attendant

Denver, CO · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

All pet lovers welcome CityVet is looking for Animal Care Attendants (Kennel Tech) to join our team! At CityVet, we know our team of happy people is as unique and diverse as the pets we care for. We ...

CityVet

Animal Care Attendant

Denver, CO

All pet lovers welcome CityVet is looking for Animal Care Attendants (Kennel Tech) to join our team! At CityVet, we know our team of happy people is as unique and diverse as the pets we care for. We ...

CityVet

Animal Care Attendant

Denver, CO · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

All pet lovers welcome CityVet is looking for Animal Care Attendants (Kennel Tech) to join our team! At CityVet, we know our team of happy people is as unique and diverse as the pets we care for. We ...

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All JobsAnimal Rescue JobsAnimal Rescue Jobs in Boulder, CO

Animal Rescue information

See Boulder, CO salary details

$10

$21

$28

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Boulder, CO is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $25.91 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 Boulder, CO? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Boulder, CO are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Rescue jobs in Boulder, CO? For Animal Rescue jobs in Boulder, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Boulder, CO look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Boulder, CO are:
What cities near Boulder, CO are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Boulder, CO with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Boulder, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,407 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Medical Director - Red Rocks Animal Center

Red Rocks Animal Center

Lakewood, CO • On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people - providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage - for all the moments that matter.
Because life is better with pets.
We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience - every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.
With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide, we offer:
  • Local autonomy with national support
  • Career mobility and development opportunities
  • A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first

You care for pets. We care for you.
Position Overview
The Medical Director (MD) is responsible for providing strong leadership for the hospital, managing and mentoring associate veterinarians, and assuring regulatory compliance relating to the practice of veterinary medicine. The MD is also responsible for maintaining an environment of teamwork in which the highest quality veterinary medicine is delivered. In partnership with the hospital leadership team, the MD holds shared responsibility for the financial health of the hospital, directing staff and the overall management of practice operations. The MD also serves as a staff veterinarian in addition to the administrative and leadership duties of the MD role. Effective MDs demonstrate strong work and professional ethics, a positive attitude, and uphold a high standard of patient care. They are part of the foundation upon which successful veterinary practices are built and directly impact and influence hospital culture and morale.
Red Rocks Animal Center in Lakewood, CO, is a well-established, full-service hospital known for delivering exceptional veterinary care since 1998. From routine wellness exams and vaccinations to advanced diagnostics and internal medicine, we are committed to supporting the health and well-being of every patient. Our modern facility and highly skilled team allow us to provide top-tier medical care in a collaborative, supportive environment. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the medical vision of our hospital while still engaging in clinical practice.
Why Join Us:
  • Advanced Resources: In-house lab, digital radiography (including dental), ultrasound, and a skilled technical team experienced in anesthetic monitoring and perioperative care.
  • Leadership Support: Dedicated operations team to help you focus on practicing medicine and leading your clinical staff.
  • Professional Growth: Generous CE allowance, leadership training, and opportunities to pursue individual clinical interests.
  • Work-Life Balance: Flexible scheduling to promote sustainability and well-being.
  • Community Engagement: Strong, ongoing partnerships with local rescue organizations.

As Medical Director, you will:
  • Provide medical leadership, set clinical standards, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Mentor and develop associate veterinarians, technicians, and support staff.
  • Partner with hospital management to drive operational excellence and client satisfaction.
  • Maintain a clinical caseload, focusing on quality medicine and patient care.
  • Represent Red Rocks Animal Center within the community and support our partnerships with local rescue organizations.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive base salary ($150,000-$180,000) with high earning potential with no negative accrual options available!
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Optional life and disability coverage
  • 401(k) with company contribution
  • Generous CE allowance
  • Reimbursement for license and membership fees
  • Relocation and sign-on bonuses up to $125,000
  • Additional discounts and supplemental benefit options

Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to JP Garcia at jgarcia@petvetcarecenters.com or apply at www.petvetcareers.com
Key Responsibilities
  • Maintaining a high quality of progressive veterinary care
    • Oversees and gives directives regarding medical standards and quality of care
    • Sets policies as they pertain to the practice of medicine
    • Works toward making various services work as one team
    • In conjunction with appropriate leadership team members, recommends additions to the hospital inventory
    • Budgets for new equipment and provides a reasonable cost estimate and return on investment
    • Sees patients and handles clinical practice
    • Ensures positive communication with clients and between doctors, including the proper transfer of patient care responsibilities
    • Reviews patient records for completeness and accuracy and uses them to promote medical excellence
    • Appropriately manages controlled drugs
    • Reviews and approves requests for alternatives to additional drugs and medical supplies
    • Conducts regular doctor meetings
    • Performs other duties as assigned by Manager
  • Handles patient care problems, client complaints, and referral partner issues
  • Manages veterinary, client, and board complaints and recommends resolutions
  • Develops medical policies
  • Assists in ensuring practice compliance with the State Veterinary Medical Practice Act, OSHA, and AAHA standards
  • Monitors DVM performance and production, provides coaching when appropriate
  • Serves as a mentor and role model for all staff veterinarians
  • Leads candidate interviews of potential DVMs
  • Identifies new service opportunities that do not currently exist in the hospital
  • Holds ownership for the revenue and success of the practice through monitoring key performance indicators and works with the Hospital Manager to make adjustments to achieve positive results
  • Helps identify and plan for upcoming challenges in maintaining hospital operations and possible temporary solutions (locum)

Qualifications (Required)
  • Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD) from an accredited college or university
  • Current State Veterinary License
  • DEA registration must be obtained and maintained
  • 3-5+ years of experience in a veterinary practice
  • Strong diagnostic and clinical skills.
  • Excellent surgical and dental skills.
  • Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment.
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Commitment to providing compassionate and high-quality veterinary care.
  • Excellent Communication Skills and the ability to communicate effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner with all members of the Medical and Hospital staff.
  • Client communication skills, must be able to elicit information, establish rapport, offer explanations with pet owners.
  • Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain.
  • May include some climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
  • Some tasks involve the periodic performance of moderately physically demanding work.
  • Position does require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)
  • Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Excellent time-management and delegation abilities
  • Exercises sound judgment and demonstrates exemplary decision-making skills
  • Professionalism and courtesy in all interactions with others
  • Well-developed interpersonal skills

What We Offer
We care deeply about supporting our team members - professionally and personally. Benefits include:
  • Signing, retention and relocation packages up to $100,000
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
  • 401(k) with discretionary contribution
  • Team Member Pet Discounts
  • Emotional wellbeing support - including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
  • CE stipends and career development resources
  • Grant Circle - a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
  • Local hospital culture backed by national resources

Pay Range
$150,000-$180,000 USD
At PetVet Care Centers, we're committed to a Culture of Care - for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you're providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.

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