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Animal Rescue Jobs in Lakeland, FL (NOW HIRING)

Spca Florida

Animal Care - Feline Team

Lakeland, FL · On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

Animal Care - Feline Team We have a team of dedicated, innovative, and compassionate people who work together to care for every animal that comes to our Adoption Center. We know that we can make a ...

SPCA Florida

Animal Care - Feline Team

Lakeland, FL · On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

Animal Care - Feline Team We have a team of dedicated, innovative, and compassionate people who work together to care for every animal that comes to our Adoption Center. We know that we can make a ...

UAB

CLINICAL LAB ANIMAL VETERINARIAN

Tampa, FL · On-site

$94K - $153K/yr

CLINICAL LAB ANIMAL VETERINARIAN The University of Alabama at Birmingham General Responsibilities: To provide clinical and surgical medical care of animals (multi-species) used in research and ...

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 ...

ZooTampa

Design & Engineering Internship

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

... 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 Lakeland, FL

Animal Rescue information

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How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Lakeland, FL is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $23.32 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 and relevant experience volunteering or working with animals. Many organizations prefer candidates with knowledge of animal behavior, basic veterinary skills, and certifications such as pet first aid or animal handling courses.

Can you make a living running an animal rescue?

Animal rescue work is often volunteer-based or low-paid, with many rescuers relying on donations, grants, and personal funds. While some organizations offer salaries or stipends, making a full-time living typically requires additional income sources or running a larger, well-funded operation. Skills in fundraising, grant writing, and management can improve financial stability 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 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 often require a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and specialized certifications, and they involve working in clinics, research facilities, or zoos.

Is rescuing animals a career?

Animal rescue can be a career involving roles such as animal shelter workers, rescue technicians, or wildlife rehabilitators. These positions often require knowledge of animal care, relevant certifications, and physical ability to handle animals in various environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in Lakeland, FL? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Lakeland, FL are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Rescue jobs in Lakeland, FL? For Animal Rescue jobs in Lakeland, FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Lakeland, FL look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Lakeland, FL are:
What cities near Lakeland, FL are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Lakeland, FL with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Lakeland, FL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,815 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Animal Care - Feline Team

Spca Florida

Lakeland, FL • On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Animal Care - Feline Team
We have a team of dedicated, innovative, and compassionate people who work together to care for every animal that comes to our Adoption Center. We know that we can make a difference every day in the lives of animals. The Feline Care Team is responsible for the overall care of the cats that are in our shelter by providing food, water, and a clean environment.
We are looking for an Animal Care - Feline Team member who has customer service skills and will act as a spokesperson for the organization to promote our purpose and our programs to the general public.
Why You Will Love Working for SPCA Florida:
  • Amazing Work Environment: We're more than just coworkers-we're a family! Our shelter is known for its positive, supportive, and fun atmosphere where you'll truly feel valued. Supportive environment where your voice matters, and a gossip-free culture is actively practiced
  • Purposeful Work: Your role ensures the ethical and humane treatment of our animals while saving their lives and finding the perfect forever homes.
  • Work-life Balance: We are committed to offering a benefits package that supports your life, well-being, and thank you for the care you give our animals every day. Just because animal welfare is your calling in life doesn't mean you shouldn't have a life outside of your job.

What You'll Be Doing:
  • The daily cleaning and feeding of the animals.
  • The daily monitoring of animal health
  • Assisting the public with general information and adoptions

What's In It For You
  • Competitive hourly pay based on experience
  • 403B Retirement Plan
  • Holiday Pay
  • Paid time off after 60 days
  • Health Insurance - ¾ paid by SPCA Florida
  • Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Opportunity for Career Advancement and Learning
  • Continuing Education
  • An all-around amazing family-like team to work with
  • Generous Personal Pet Care Discounts

What We're Looking For
  • Kind-hearted & empathetic-someone who genuinely cares about our animals and their team.
  • A people-person-friendly and professional, even during stressful moments
  • A smart & resourceful multitasker-able to juggle different tasks at once
  • A team player who values respect, no drama, and a positive work culture
  • Be flexible in attitude and work habits.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Ability to lift and carry materials up to 40 lbs.
  • Basic knowledge of proper methods of animal restraint and animal behavior.
  • The ability to work well and communicate effectively with the public, fellow employees, and volunteers.
  • The Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of individuals.
  • Capable of problem-solving skills
  • Must be compassionate, LOVE ANIMALS, and have a positive attitude.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug-Free Workplace, background checks.

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