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Animal Rescue Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

DVMelite

Associate Veterinarian AAH

Springfield, MO

Angel Animal Hospital / Integrative Veterinary Services of Missouri About Us For over 60 years, Angel Animal Hospital has proudly served the Springfield community with compassionate, high-quality ...

DVMelite

Associate Veterinarian AAH

Springfield, MO

Angel Animal Hospital / Integrative Veterinary Services of Missouri About Us For over 60 years, Angel Animal Hospital has proudly served the Springfield community with compassionate, high-quality ...

Petco

Junior Groomer

Springfield, MO · On-site

Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes for approximately 7 million animals through in-store adoption events. Your Petco Grooming Career:

Petco

Junior Groomer

Springfield, MO · On-site

Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes for approximately 7 million animals through in-store adoption events. Your Petco Grooming Career:

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How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Springfield, MO is $17.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $21.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 Springfield, MO? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Rescue jobs in Springfield, MO? For Animal Rescue jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Springfield, MO as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,333 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Animal Keeper 1

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium

Springfield, MO • On-site

$16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Join the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium in Springfield, MO, as a Full-Time Animal Keeper 1, where your passion for wildlife meets hands-on experience. This onsite position offers an exhilarating opportunity to work closely with a diverse array of animals, fostering both their care and your professional growth. Enjoy an engaging, customer-focused environment that celebrates teamwork and excellence. With a starting pay of $16.00 per hour, you will find fulfillment in both your responsibilities and contributions to wildlife appreciation.

You will receive great benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Life Insurance, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, Paid Time Off, and Employee Discounts. If you have a problem-solving mindset and an abundant thinking approach, this role invites you to thrive in a culture that values integrity and forward-thinking strategies. Seize this chance to make a significant impact while advancing your career in the museum and aquarium industry.

A little about us

Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium consists of a 1.5-million-gallon Aquarium Adventure showcasing 35,000 animals and our immersive Wildlife Galleries sharing the story of America's most significant conservationists throughout history and today. In 2022, Wonders of Wildlife became accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Accreditation signifies our exemplary standards for animal welfare, scientific education, and staff training. Created by noted conservationist and Bass Pro Shops founder/CEO Johnny Morris, the 350,000-square-foot experience celebrates people who hunt, fish, and act as stewards of the land and water. Located next to Bass Pro Shops National Headquarters in Springfield, Missouri the campus is a centerpiece of America's Conservation Capital in Missouri's Ozark Mountains. Wonders of Wildlife has been voted "Best New Attraction in America" and "America's Best Aquarium" by the readers of USA TODAY. For more information, visit www.wondersofwildlife.org.

Your role as a Animal Keeper 1

As a new Full-Time Animal Keeper 1 at Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, you can expect a fulfilling and dynamic daily routine. Your day will begin at 6 AM, allowing you to prepare for the morning activities and ensure the well-being of the animals. Responsibilities include feeding various species, cleaning enclosures, and observing animal behavior to report any health or welfare concerns. You will participate in enriching animal habitats through engaging activities that promote natural behaviors, while also assisting with educational programs for visitors.

Collaboration with fellow team members will be essential, as you will engage in training sessions and problem-solving discussions to enhance the overall care of our inhabitants. Your typical shift will conclude at 3 PM, providing you with a structured yet exciting work environment that fosters both personal growth and teamwork.

What we're looking for in a Animal Keeper 1

To excel as a Animal Keeper 1, a diverse skill set is essential. Successful candidates should possess a strong foundation in animal husbandry, demonstrating knowledge of species-specific care and behaviors. Excellent observational skills are key for monitoring animal health and well-being, while a proactive attitude toward problem-solving is crucial in daily operations. Effective communication skills are vital for interacting with colleagues and engaging with visitors during educational programs. A collaborative spirit will enhance teamwork, allowing you to work alongside fellow keepers in a dynamic environment.

Additionally, adaptability is important, as you may encounter unforeseen challenges that require innovative solutions. A genuine passion for wildlife and conservation will not only motivate you but also inspire others to appreciate the mission of the museum and aquarium. With this combination of skills, you will thrive in a rewarding and impactful role.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro