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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 ...

SPCA Florida

Animal Care - Canine Team

Lakeland, FL

$15 - $15.50/hr

Job duties include, but are not limited to, the daily cleaning of animal areas, feeding, monitoring animal health, and assisting the public with general information and adoptions. Must be ...

New

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 ...

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All JobsAnimal Rescue JobsAnimal Rescue Jobs in Lakeland, FL

Animal Rescue information

See Lakeland, FL salary details

$9

$19

$25

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 Associate - Animal Ambassadors (Full-Time)

ZooTampa

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Are you passionate about animals and conservation? ZooTampa is looking for a full-time Animal Care Associate - Animal Ambassadors.
  • Are you the kind of person who is passionate about rescuing, rehabilitating and caring for animals?
  • Do you care about creating exceptional, personal experiences with co-workers and guest?
  • Do you want to work in a fun and immersive environment where your contribution impacts the mission of the organization?

If so, apply today, we are scheduling interviews soon.
The Animal Ambassador team at Zoo Tampa is a group of energetic individuals caring for a variety of animals such as parrots, serval and clouded leopards, bird of prey, reptiles, and other small mammals. Our team and the Animal Ambassadors offer unique, immersive experiences for our guests including animal mingles, presentations, themed shows and media appearances. We promote positive reinforcement, choice-based training and focus on relationship building with all of our animals. We are looking for motivated individuals who are passionate about inspiring others to develop a greater appreciation of animals in the wild and can support the Zoo's mission and goals.
Duties include, but are not limited to, daily care and feeding of assigned animals in collection, maintenance of animal exhibits and night-houses,
behavioral observations, record keeping, animal enrichment and training, assisting veterinary staff, operation of utility vehicles, and public presentations.
Who We Are
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is one of the most popular zoos in the southeastern U.S., with over 1 million visitors annually. We have grown to what now encompasses 56 acres of naturalistic wildlife habitats in a lush, tropical garden setting with wide-ranging activities. The Zoo, accredited by Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), offers popular educational programming, fun recreational amenities, up-close 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 exceptional personalized experiences that connect people with wildlife and each other in fun, immersive ways.
Our vision is that everyone we touch is motivated to join us in taking action to protect and preserve wildlife.
Join us and become a part of creating unforgettable natural connections!
Your day to day
Essential Functions (including but not limited to):
  • General husbandry and care of assigned animals, including preparing and distributing approved animal diets
  • Close observation of animal behaviors with a particular focus on appropriate appetite, mobility, and waste production to monitor health of animals; notification of appropriate animal care staff of any concerns
  • Develop a stronger understanding of Operant Conditioning and behavior modification through staff development and hands on application.
  • Shift animals according to area's standard operating procedures (SOP)
  • Basic animal capture, restraint and handling techniques.
  • Engage with Zoo guests at exhibits, conservation stations, keeper talks, training demonstrations, and/or shows.
  • Strong stage presence and comfortability on microphone in front of large crowds.
  • Maintain detailed daily records on assigned animals
  • Strong knowledge of zoo layout and general animal collection to respond quickly during animal emergencies and also assist guests on a daily basis with exhibit location
  • Adherence to area's standard operating procedures (SOP)
  • Knowledge of safety SOP, safety concerns, and reporting protocols
  • Assist registrar in area's record keeping
  • Inspect, clean, and maintain both exhibit and off-exhibit areas
  • Species-specific enrichment and guest engagement as assigned.
  • Actively seek opportunities to participate in guest engagement through interaction with guests during both formal and informal discussions, during events, and as otherwise assigned
  • Report animal illness, maintenance, safety, horticulture, or other needs to appropriate staff
  • Observe safety policies and procedures in regard to the use of zoo equipment, materials, chemicals, and vehicles
  • Respond to emergency situations (e.g., Code I, II, III) within the Zoo.
  • Other duties as assigned.

What are we looking for?
Qualifications and Experience:
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required; advanced degree in Zoology, Biology, or related field of study preferred.
  • Minimum of one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • SCUBA and First-Aid Certification for specific areas.
  • Basic animal training through the use operant conditioning.
  • Strong speaking skills on and off microphone for large groups and/or media.
  • Basic knowledge of zoonotic diseases.
  • Basic knowledge of husbandry requirements.
  • Knowledge of Word Processing software and Spreadsheet software.
  • Must have good written and oral communication skills.
  • Must be self-motivated and goal oriented.

Our Perks at ZooTampa:
  • Generous PTO (Vacation and Wellness Time)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Medical, Dental, Vision and Supplemental insurance options
  • Pet insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Free membership to the Zoo, MOSI, Glazer Children's Museum and the Florida Aquarium
  • Free or discounted admission to many attractions in Florida
  • Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise
  • Discounted gym membership
  • And so much more!

Equal Opportunity Employer & Drug-Free Workplace

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