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Animal Rescue Jobs in Clearwater, FL (NOW HIRING)

Pet Supermarket, Inc.

Shift Manager

Tampa, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

You must be an animal lover and it is time to pounce on the opportunity to become part of our ... Support the execution of community events and partnering with various rescue agencies. * Complete ...

ZooTampa

Guest Engagement Guide I (Part-Time)

Tampa, FL · On-site

... animal encounters and engaging seasonal events for which it has won awards as one of the country's most family-friendly zoos. Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and care for animals; create ...

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All JobsAnimal Rescue JobsAnimal Rescue Jobs in Clearwater, FL

Animal Rescue information

See Clearwater, FL salary details

$9

$19

$25

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Clearwater, FL is $19.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $23.03 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 Clearwater, FL? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Clearwater, FL are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Rescue jobs in Clearwater, FL? For Animal Rescue jobs in Clearwater, FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Clearwater, FL look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Clearwater, FL are:
What cities near Clearwater, FL are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Clearwater, FL with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Clearwater, FL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,353 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Vet Tech 3 (Senior Level)

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Clearwater, FL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

We are growing, We are expanding. We are adding animals to our collection. We need employees that are passionate about our mission and vision! Do you want to contribute to conservation efforts for wildlife, specifically but not limited to you marine wildlife? Then Clearwater Marine Aquarium is the place for you!
Our Mission
We believe in preserving our environment while inspiring the human spirit through leadership in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life; environmental education; research; and conservation.
Our Vision
To be the global leader at connecting people to marine life and the environment.
CMA's Values include Integrity, Inspiration, Passion, Excellence, Collaboration, Leadership and Compassion
POSITION TITLE: Senior Veterinary Technician
REPORTS TO: Hospital Manager
EXEMPT OR NON-EXEMPT: Non-exempt
PERCENTAGE OF FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT: 100%
SUPERVISES: None
PERMANENT/SEASONAL/TEMPORARY: Permanent
LOCATION: On-Site
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY:
Responsible for working both independently and within a team environment to proficiently perform complex animal care procedures and the daily operations of maintaining the health and wellbeing of Clearwater Marine Aquarium's resident and rehabilitating animals. Serve as a resource for other veterinary technicians and team members.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Participate in the rapid response to all resident and stranded animal events including those that occur during non-scheduled times of work or outside of CMA's operating hours
  • High level of skill in the following veterinary technician responsibilities:
    • Collection of diagnostic samples in all applicable species
    • Laboratory diagnostic evaluation in all applicable species
    • Surgical technician techniques
    • Use of all hospital equipment
    • Radiology
    • Anesthesia induction, monitoring, and recovery
    • CPR/Emergency techniques for all species
    • Euthanasia techniques and necropsy. Able to independently perform necropsy in most species
    • Pharmacy procedures including drug dispensing and controlled drug monitoring
    • Veterinary nursing techniques including injections, IV catheter placement, etc. for all relevant species
  • Understand anatomy and physiology of all species at Clearwater Marine Aquarium
  • Participate with husbandry teams in animal training for medical procedures
  • Perform data entry in order to maintain complete and current records including sample storage
  • Demonstrate effective and appropriate oral and written communication techniques
  • Anticipate potential veterinary needs during patient transport
  • Demonstrate knowledge of water quality parameters and how they apply to patient health.
  • Perform hospital maintenance and cleaning
  • Point person for one or more category of hospital equipment (imaging, anesthesia, lasers, etc.) This includes troubleshooting, routine maintenance, training new employees, identifying replacement equipment, etc.
  • Manage pharmaceutical, hospital and laboratory inventory supplies
  • Adhere to all OSHA, USDA, DEA and FWC regulations and make recommendations for work orders to ensure compliance in all areas
  • Represent CMA and the vet department in PR/fundraising/community activities
  • Participate in some or all aspects of the various types of research projects as deemed appropriate by CMA's research committee and VP of Animal & Environmental Health
  • Participate in field research opportunities (off site) when available
  • Represent CMA at conferences including giving presentations when applicable.
  • Assist in grant writing process for the veterinary department.
  • Routinely engage guests visiting hospital to make their visit memorable
  • Demonstrate leadership at CMA
  • Train new veterinary technician staff and interns
  • Take initiative on projects to advance the veterinary practice, animal health, and safety
  • Perform other duties as assigned
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
  • Veterinary technician degree from an AVMA accredited organization
  • Certified Veterinary Technician, Registered Veterinary Technician, or Licensed Veterinary Technician. Out of state candidates must obtain Florida licensure within first 12 months of employment at CMA.
  • Must be working as a veterinary technician at CMA for a minimum of four full years. Other candidates must have a minimum of five years of veterinary technician experience in a zoo and/or aquarium setting.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, nights, and/or holidays as needed; must also be able to share a 24/7 on-call schedule in case of emergency situations
  • Knowledge of medical procedures and rehabilitation of marine mammals preferred
  • Ability to communicate clearly both in writing and verbally and follow complex instructions
  • Ability to take initiative and work independently in the absence of supervision
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, word, power point etc.)
  • Ability to obtain Florida driver's license
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Lift up to 50lbs to waist level - Frequently
  • Lift up to 20lbs to shoulders and above head - Frequently
  • Walk/stand for long periods of time - Frequently
  • Maneuver safely on uneven terrain or in tight spaces - Frequently
  • Safely climb ladders when needed - Frequently
  • Squat, bend, kneel, twist and reach - Frequently.
  • Reach above the shoulders - Frequently
  • Push and pull larger equipment - Frequently
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions and adapt to changing weather - Frequently
  • Work indoors, under cover without air conditioning or heat - Frequently

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium reserves the right to revise job descriptions or work hours as required.
All job requirements are subject to change to reflect the evolving position requirements or to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a threat or risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to which will be required in this position. Employees will be required to follow other job-related duties as requested by their supervisor/manager (within guidelines and compliance with Federal and State Laws).
A statement of "permanent" position is not a guarantee of employment. It simply means the role has no set end date. In Florida, employment is "at-will" by default, meaning either party can terminate the relationship at any time for any legal reason and as such continued employment remains on an "at-will" basis.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer, and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. Clearwater Marine Aquarium participates in E-Verify, please view the Notice of E-Verify Participation and the Notice of Right to Work.

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