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Animal Rescue Jobs in Joliet, IL (NOW HIRING)

Animal Care Steward

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

We also regularly help rescue domestic chickens and ducks. Every year, Red Door rescues and finds ... An Animal Care Steward is responsible for the day-to-day care of the shelter animals and cleaning ...

Animal Care Steward

Chicago, IL

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

We also regularly help rescue domestic chickens and ducks. Every year, Red Door rescues and finds ... An Animal Care Steward is responsible for the day-to-day care of the shelter animals and cleaning ...

Animal Care Steward

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

We also regularly help rescue domestic chickens and ducks. Every year, Red Door rescues and finds ... An Animal Care Steward is responsible for the day-to-day care of the shelter animals and cleaning ...

Animal Care Steward

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

We also regularly help rescue domestic chickens and ducks. Every year, Red Door rescues and finds ... An Animal Care Steward is responsible for the day-to-day care of the shelter animals and cleaning ...

Veterinary Technician

Yorkville, IL ยท On-site

$18 - $29/hr

We're proud to serve our community in a state-of-the-art facility, providing high-quality care while also giving back through our very own animal rescue, Silly's Sanctuary, and partnerships with ...

Veterinarian

Montgomery, IL ยท On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Our valued rescue partners include Anderson Animal Shelter, Aurora Animal Control, and Rover Rescue of Illinois. * Benefits / Perks: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, Retirement plan with a 3.5% ...

Veterinarian

Aurora, IL ยท On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Our valued rescue partners include Anderson Animal Shelter, Aurora Animal Control, and Rover Rescue of Illinois. * Benefits / Perks: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, Retirement plan with a 3.5% ...

Veterinarian

Montgomery, IL ยท On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Our valued rescue partners include Anderson Animal Shelter, Aurora Animal Control, and Rover Rescue of Illinois. * Benefits / Perks: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, Retirement plan with a 3.5% ...

Our valued rescue partners include Anderson Animal Shelter, Aurora Animal Control, and Rover Rescue of Illinois. * Benefits / Perks: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, Retirement plan with a 3.5% ...

... and rescue groups. Dr. Brian Schmidt is highly skilled in minimally invasive laparoscopic-assisted gastropexy, helping protect at-risk breeds from life-threatening conditions. Pine Bluff Animal ...

Veterinarian

Morris, IL ยท On-site

... and rescue groups. Dr. Brian Schmidt is highly skilled in minimally invasive laparoscopic-assisted gastropexy, helping protect at-risk breeds from life-threatening conditions. Pine Bluff Animal ...

... and rescue groups. Dr. Brian Schmidt is highly skilled in minimally invasive laparoscopic-assisted gastropexy, helping protect at-risk breeds from life-threatening conditions. Pine Bluff Animal ...

Veterinarian

Montgomery, IL ยท On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Our valued rescue partners include Anderson Animal Shelter, Aurora Animal Control, and Rover Rescue of Illinois. * Benefits / Perks: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, Retirement plan with a 3.5% ...

Veterinarian

Montgomery, IL ยท On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Our valued rescue partners include Anderson Animal Shelter, Aurora Animal Control, and Rover Rescue of Illinois. * Benefits / Perks: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, Retirement plan with a 3.5% ...

Veterinarian

Aurora, IL ยท On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Our valued rescue partners include Anderson Animal Shelter, Aurora Animal Control, and Rover Rescue of Illinois. * Benefits / Perks: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, Retirement plan with a 3.5% ...

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Animal Rescue information

See Joliet, IL salary details

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$26

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Joliet, IL is $20.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $24.18 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 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 job is it called when you rescue animals?

The job of rescuing animals is typically called an animal rescue worker or animal rescue technician. These professionals often work for shelters, rescue organizations, or wildlife agencies, and they may need training in animal handling, first aid, and sometimes certifications in animal care or veterinary assistance.
What cities near Joliet, IL are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Joliet, IL with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Veterinary Technician

Veterinary Technician

National Veterinary Associates

Yorkville, IL โ€ข On-site

$18 - $29/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Veterinary Technician - Yorkville Animal Hospital 102 Garden St, Yorkville, IL 60560

Yorkville Animal Hospital is a fast-paced, full-service general practice with urgent care and walk-in services. We're proud to serve our community in a state-of-the-art facility, providing high-quality care while also giving back through our very own animal rescue, Silly's Sanctuary, and partnerships with local rescues, the county, and animal control.

We're looking for a Veterinary Technician with at least 1 year of experience who is confident in their technical skills and excited to join a collaborative, community-centered hospital.

What You'll Do:

Provide high-quality patient care in general practice, urgent care, and surgery

Perform and monitor anesthesia, dentals, and surgical procedures

Supporting walk-in and urgent cases in a fast-paced environment

Collaborate with a skilled team with 8-15 years of longevity in our support staff

Contribute to a culture focused on servant leadership, growth, and teamwork

Schedule:

5-day work week

2 weekend shifts per month

Shared holiday rotation for in-patient care

What We Offer:

$18-$29/hr based on experience

Full medical, dental, and vision benefits

Pet care discounts (including free doggy daycare for employee pets!)

Uniform allowance

License reimbursement and CE allowance

Supportive leadership with 1:1 meetings, mentorship, and growth opportunities

A culture that celebrates collaboration, birthdays, outings, and even a monthly book club

Community involvement: local events, parades, and volunteer opportunities

Why Join Us?

Yorkville Animal Hospital is a thriving hospital with an evolving culture built on servant leadership, collaboration, and growth. Over the past year, our leadership team has focused on strengthening medical standards, safety, and culture-and we're proud of the momentum we've built. With a mix of general practice and urgent care cases, a team that values engagement, and room for professional development, this is the perfect place for a CVT looking to grow their career in a supportive environment.

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Ready to grow your career with us? Apply today and become part of a hospital that values medical excellence, teamwork, and community.


NVA logo

About NVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency (NVS) is a veterinary specialty and emergency hospital group with two locations in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. Our Mission and primary focus is to honor the human-animal bond in all we do, focusing on patient care, client experience, and the health of our team. We believe we can never stop improving and strive to improve in all we do. Not only do we focus on patient care, but core to our hospital culture is also a focus on the health of our team, our community, and the environment. We are committed to sustainable environmental practices. NVS works in partnership with National Veterinary Associates-Compassion-First (NVA C-F). NVA-CF is the largest private owner of freestanding veterinary hospitals in North America with over 1400 locations worldwide.

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US