1

Animal Rescue Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Join us! We're currently sniffing out our next Animal Care Attendant at Atlanta Pet Resort Dunwoody Do you speak fluent "woof" or "meow"? Know the joy of puppy kisses and the chaos of a zoomie ...

Join us! We're currently sniffing out our next Animal Care Attendant at Atlanta Pet Resort Dunwoody Do you speak fluent "woof" or "meow"? Know the joy of puppy kisses and the chaos of a zoomie ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

Animal Rescue information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$9

$20

$27

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Decatur, GA is $20.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become an animal rescue worker?

To become an animal rescue worker, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience with animals, and strong compassion. Volunteering at shelters or rescue organizations can provide valuable skills, and some roles may require certifications in animal care or first aid.

What degree do I need for animal rescue?

Animal rescue jobs typically do not require a specific degree, but a background in animal science, biology, or related fields can be beneficial. Relevant skills include animal handling, first aid, and knowledge of animal behavior, and certifications such as pet first aid or CPR can enhance employability.

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.

Do animal rescues pay employees?

Animal rescue organizations may pay employees, especially those in full-time or specialized roles, but many positions are volunteer-based. Salaries can vary depending on the organization, location, and job responsibilities, with some rescues offering stipends or part-time wages. Certification in animal care or related skills can improve employment prospects and pay rates.

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 is the highest paid job working with animals?

The highest paid jobs working with animals typically include veterinary surgeons and specialized animal researchers, with veterinarians earning a median annual salary of around $100,000 or more. Advanced roles such as zoo directors or animal pharmacologists may also command higher salaries, especially with extensive experience and advanced certifications.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Rescue jobs in Decatur, GA? For Animal Rescue jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Decatur, GA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,746 per year, or $20.6 per hour.
Animal Care Technician II- Division of Animal Resources, School of Medicine

Animal Care Technician II- Division of Animal Resources, School of Medicine

Emory University

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Emory Healthcare rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 210 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 870 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Discover Your Career at Emory University
Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.
Description
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Performs routine and specialized duties associated with animal care, including feeding, medicating, cleaning, restraint and transportation.
  • Maintains adequate inventory of necessary supplies and equipment.
  • Observes animal behavior and conditions, collects specimens and provides technical assistance to research and veterinary personnel.
  • Performs minor repairs and maintains animal housing facility.
  • May train and supervise new technicians.
  • May drive utility vehicles to transport animals and supplies, ensuring safe operation, daily inspection and vehicle cleanliness.
  • Performs related responsibilities as required.
  • Employees in this classification may be required to work with, take specific precautions against and/or be immunized against potentially hazardous agents.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • A high school diploma or equivalent and two years of animal husbandry/care experience OR certification as Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) and two years of animal husbandry/care experience OR four years of animal husbandry/care experience.
  • The ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Positions within this classification may require a valid Georgia driver's license and an insurable driving record.
  • Positions in this classification may require three years of transportation and routing experience in lieu of animal husbandry/care experience.

NOTE: Position tasks are generally required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location. Remote work from home day options may be granted at department discretion. Emory reserves the right to change remote work status with notice to employee.
Additional Details
Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).
Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.

What Emory Healthcare employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom