ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Animal Rescue Jobs in Burlington, VT (NOW HIRING)

HSCC

Animal Care Associate - FT

South Burlington, VT · On-site

$19.50/hr

Animal Care Associate JOB STATUS: Full Time; Non-Exempt (40 hours/week) Reports To: Shelter Operations Manager & Animal Care Supervisor POSITION SUMMARY HSCC's animal care staff play an essential ...

HSCC

Animal Care Associate - FT

South Burlington, VT

$19.50/hr

Animal Care Associate JOB STATUS: Full Time; Non-Exempt (40 hours/week) Reports To: Shelter Operations Manager & Animal Care Supervisor POSITION SUMMARY HSCC's animal care staff play an essential ...

SHERMAN VETERINARY PLLC

Veterinary Assistant

Richmond, VT · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Giving back is woven into the fabric of Richmond Animal Hospital through community sponsorships, charitable donations, volunteer efforts, rescue partnerships, fundraising events, and the launch of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAnimal Rescue JobsAnimal Rescue Jobs in Burlington, VT

Animal Rescue information

See Burlington, VT salary details

$9

$21

$27

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Burlington, VT is $21.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $25.10 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 Burlington, VT?

The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Burlington, VT are:

What are popular job titles related to Animal Rescue jobs in Burlington, VT?

For Animal Rescue jobs in Burlington, VT, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Burlington, VT look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Burlington, VT are:

Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Burlington, VT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,950 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Animal Care Associate - FT

HSCC

South Burlington, VT • On-site

$19.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Clean and disinfect animal enclosures, supplies, and maintain dog play yards.

  • Feed animals, administer medications, and track their health and behavior.

  • Greet visitors, assist with adoption processes, and provide information about animal care and shelter programs.

Job description

JOB TITLE: Animal Care Associate
JOB STATUS: Full Time; Non-Exempt (40 hours/week)
Reports To: Shelter Operations Manager & Animal Care Supervisor
POSITION SUMMARY
HSCC's animal care staff play an essential role in the well-being of animals and ensure a positive experience for the public in the Adoption Center. Responsibilities include daily cleaning and disinfecting of spaces, feeding and medicating a variety of mammals, and tracking of animal behavior and health. Staff endeavor to create a safe, clean, and comfortable environment to help animals acclimate as they transition to new homes. This role requires compassionate, dependable individuals with excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to HSCC's mission. Weekend and holiday availability are a requirement of the position.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Safely handle a variety of domestic animals and provide comfort, monitor health and behavior, and ease stress
  • Clean and disinfect animal enclosures, supplies, and maintain dog play yards
  • Feed animals, administer medications, and maintain accurate tracking records
  • Sort and fold laundry, operate commercial washers and dryers, and perform general facility cleaning
  • Collaborate with other animal care associates, coordinators, volunteers, and managers to ensure daily tasks are completed
  • Work with contracted dog trainers and the Canine Coordinator to implement learned skills in dog care and management
  • Greet and assist volunteers, visitors, and adopters, ensure proper sign-in and provide information
  • Provide adoption counseling and complete related database entries, adoption paperwork, and process payments accurately
  • Educate visitors and callers about animal care, shelter programs, and services
  • Accurately process and document donations, fees, sales, and maintain adoption materials
  • Assist with adoption promotions, special events, and marketing materials
  • Provide excellent customer service, promoting HSCC's mission and creating a positive, non-judgmental atmosphere
  • Perform other duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS
  • Experience in a veterinary hospital, animal welfare organization, or animal care facility is helpful
  • Ability to receive direction and guidance and work well under pressure in emotional situations
  • Commitment to superior animal care and humane treatment of animals
  • Excellent customer service, written, computer, and verbal communication skills
  • Availability for weekend and holiday work
  • Punctual and dependable with access to reliable transportation including during inclement weather
  • Committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable team culture

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to bend, twist, and to lift at least 50lbs
  • Ability to perform moderate to heavy physical labor
  • Ability to handle animals, including large canines

WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT
  • HSCC is a busy animal shelter environment with frequent noise and with the presence of animal dander and potential allergens
  • Possible exposure to sick, under-socialized and/or reactive animals in addition to potential exposure to parasites and infectious disease
  • Work with the canine population requires time outside and weather conditions will vary
  • A variety of cleaning agents are used in the facility to ensure cleanliness and the safety of animal and staff, as such use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in accordance with safety protocols may be required

Apply