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Animal Rescue Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

Animal Health Technician

Des Plaines, IL ยท On-site

$40K - $55K/yr

The duties may include, but are not limited to: โ€ข Creates, organizes, and ensures completeness of animal import records. โ€ข Monitors and manages import request and animal release workflow and ...

Animal Care Technician II

North Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

The Animal Care Technician II provides exemplary animal care and adheres to all department and AbbVie regulatory expectations. Provides animal husbandry and oversight in support of the AbbVie drug ...

Showing results 21-40

Animal Rescue information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$9

$20

$27

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Park Ridge, IL is $20.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $24.62 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 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 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 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 categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Park Ridge, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:

What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs?

Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Animal Rescue job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Park Ridge, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,082 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Animal Care Attendant

Countryside Veterinary Center

Countryside, IL โ€ข On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Are you an animal care professional looking for growth and opportunity? If so, then Countryside Veterinary Center is the place for you!
We are a full-service state-of-the-art hospital in Countryside, IL.  We are seeking a highly motivated, detail oriented individual to join our dedicated team.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Supervise large groups of pets
  • Proper animal restraint
  • Assist in cleaning, stocking and maintenance of hospital and equipment
  • Maintaining proper animal environment by cleaning kennels, providing fresh bedding and water at all times
  • Preparing and distributing prescribed diets
  • Assisting doctors and technicians as needed
  • Client Service
  • Client education
  • Medication preparation and administration
  • Assist grooming staff with bathing and handling

Requirements:

  • minimum of 1yr animal handling experience preferred, but will train the right individual
  • must be able to multi-task in a fast paced environment
  • detail-oriented, outgoing, reliable and honest
  • client service experience
  • able to meet the demands of a physically and mentally challenging job
  • weekend, evening and holiday availability (shifts typically run from 6AM-2PM or 12PM-8PM)
     

Countryside Veterinary Center provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Countryside Veterinary Center complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.


The salary range for this position is $15-$16. This range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this role at this time. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as experience, skills, and qualifications.