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Animal Rescue Jobs in San Jose, CA (NOW HIRING)

Staff Veterinarian

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$140 - $180/hr

Perform animal necropsies and write reports for Animal Rescue & Control as needed. * On occasion, serve as the after-hours contact for emergencies. Give advice by phone or text to Animal Rescue ...

Staff Veterinarian

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Perform animal necropsies and write reports for Animal Rescue & Control as needed. * On occasion, serve as the after-hours contact for emergencies. Give advice by phone or text to Animal Rescue ...

Dispatcher

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Position Summary The Dispatcher plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of Animal Rescue & Control services by managing incoming calls, coordinating service requests, and monitoring field ...

Dispatcher

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Position Summary The Dispatcher plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of Animal Rescue & Control services by managing incoming calls, coordinating service requests, and monitoring field ...

Dispatcher

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $24/hr

... Animal Rescue & Control services by managing incoming calls, coordinating service requests, and monitoring field staff activities. This position requires strong communication skills, multitasking ...

Animal Control Officer

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, it provides a wide range of services, including animal adoption, wildlife rescue, veterinary care, humane education, and enforcement of animal-related laws. The ...

Animal Control Officer

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, it provides a wide range of services, including animal adoption, wildlife rescue, veterinary care, humane education, and enforcement of animal-related laws. The ...

Animal Flow Foster Associate

Milpitas, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Overview The Animal Flow Foster Associate supports both the rescue and foster programs within the HSSV Logistics Department. In this hands-on role, this individual is responsible for supporting ...

Associate Veterinarian

Tracy, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

Deeply rooted in the Tracy community as proud sponsors of youth sports and animal rescue groups. * Active members of the Tracy Chamber of Commerce, supporting local initiatives. * Students and new ...

Associate Veterinarian

Tracy, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

Deeply rooted in the Tracy community as proud sponsors of youth sports and animal rescue groups. * Active members of the Tracy Chamber of Commerce, supporting local initiatives. * Students and new ...

About the role Under the supervision of the Foster and Animal Care Manager, the Animal Care Technician (ACT) is responsible for providing infrastructure support for Pets In Need's rescue and adoption ...

Lead Veterinarian

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Euthanize and/or assist with euthanasia of animals as needed in accordance with PHS/SPCA policies and procedures and California state law. * Assist Animal Rescue & Control, Humane Investigations and ...

Animal Transport Associate

Milpitas, CA ยท On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Train transport volunteers to go on rescue runs or to help with providing other partner shelter support. * Other job duties may be assigned as needed. Requirements * Hands on experience with animal ...

Director of Development

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$100 - $140/hr

About the Position International Bird Rescue is seeking an experienced fundraising leader for a well-established and evolving nonprofit in the area of animal welfare, emergency response, wildlife ...

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Animal Rescue information

See San Jose, CA salary details

$11

$24

$32

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in San Jose, CA is $24.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $29.28 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 are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in San Jose, CA?

The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in San Jose, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in San Jose, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in San Jose, CA are:

What cities near San Jose, CA are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs?

Cities near San Jose, CA with the most Animal Rescue job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in San Jose, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,313 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Staff Veterinarian

Vet Etc

San Mateo, CA โ€ข On-site

$140 - $180/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Examine, diagnose, prescribe treatment, and perform medical evaluations for animals in the shelter.

  • Perform surgical sterilization procedures and other surgical interventions on shelter animals.

  • Monitor animal health, collaborate with shelter staff on disease control, and provide emergency medical care as needed.


Job description

Job Title: Staff Veterinarian

FLSA Status: Exempt, Full-Time (Will consider Part-Time)

Salary: $140,000 - $180,000 per year, DOE

Competitive Compensation Package Available; Relocation and/or Student Loan Repayment Negotiable

If youโ€™re looking for an opportunity to join a team of dedicated shelter veterinarians, PHS/SPCA may be the perfect place for you!

Who we are:

PHS/SPCA is a successful, well-established non-profit humane society committed to serving the animals and people of our community. Among our major programs, PHS/SPCA adopts fully 100% of healthy, adoptable dogs and cats in our care and, through our charitably funded Hope Program, makes well and finds homes for thousands of animals who come to us sick, injured or too young to survive without supportive care. To learn more about us, visit www.phs-spca.org.

Who you are:

You thrive in a fast-paced, animal shelter environment, holding animal health and welfare as the primary concern. You ensure that all animals in the shelter receive adequate and appropriate veterinary care. With your veterinary knowledge, you perform medical evaluations, and treatment of animals in addition to spay and neuter surgeries on dogs, cats and rabbits. Your passion for animal care will extend to our shelter workplace and our clients.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Examine, diagnose, and prescribe treatment for animals in PHS/SPCA care as needed and as appropriate.
  • Provide emergency medical care as needed.
  • Perform surgical sterilization of owned and shelter dogs, cats, and rabbits. Perform other surgical procedures as indicated.
  • As part of the Veterinary team, monitor health of the shelter population and work collaboratively with shelter managers to recognize, contain and treat contagious diseases, including zoonotic diseases.
  • Regularly participate in rounds with Staff Veterinarians to discuss medical and surgical cases.
  • Ensure animal medical records are maintained as required by law.
  • Ensure every animal has a clear and concise plan regarding any medical condition(s), diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.
  • Provide shelter staff with clear and concise information regarding the medical condition, diagnosis, treatment plan and long-term prognosis.
  • Consult with specialists on specific medical cases when appropriate.
  • Participate in public vaccination clinics.
  • Pursue adequate and appropriate continuing education.
  • Perform animal necropsies and write reports for Animal Rescue & Control as needed.
  • On occasion, serve as the after-hours contact for emergencies. Give advice by phone or text to Animal Rescue & Control, the NPVEC and PHS staff.
  • Perform diagnostic tests including x-ray, blood work, cytology, and fecals.
  • Provide leadership and direction to Registered Veterinary Technicians, Veterinary Assistants and department volunteers.
  • Induce and maintain animals under anesthesia. Operate anesthetic machine and surgical monitoring equipment. Ensure that all animals are monitored while under anesthesia.
  • Work with Veterinary Services managers to ensure department equipment in good working order.
  • Participate in writing educational materials and articles for PHS/SPCA on occasion.
  • Provide humane care and treatment of all sheltered animals.
  • Euthanize and/or assist with euthanasia of animals as needed in accordance with PHS/SPCA policies and procedures and California state law.
  • Maintain a clean and sanitary work area in all work spaces.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Indirectly supervises Registered Veterinary Technicians, Veterinary Assistants, and volunteers.

Qualifications
  • Upon hire, must pass a background check.
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree with one or more yearsโ€™ experience in clinic setting; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience working in a fast-paced environment; preferably in a shelter medicine environment.
  • Valid California Veterinary Medical License.
  • Valid California Driverโ€™s License with a satisfactory driving record to be insured by our insurance company.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, shelter medical records and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization. Good oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent.
  • Must become proficient with Chameleon database software and Microsoft Office Suite within probationary period (first six months from hire date).
  • Able to work at least 2 days per week (Mon-Fri), if applying for part-time.
Benefits
  • Medical /Dental /Vision/Life Insurance /Flex Spending
  • Sick, Vacation and Holidays
  • Continued Education and Licensing Renewal Reimbursement Available
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Retirement plan & employer matching
  • Available to all employees with pets: Free vaccines, spay/neuter, microchipping, and two pet adoptions
  • Discounted euthanasia services/cremation, bloodwork, urinalysis, prescription food, and discounts at our retail stores.

The Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA is an equal opportunity employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. EOE/M/F/D/V/SO

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