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Animal Rescue Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Family Pet Care

Associate Veterinarian

Republic, MO · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Small Animal Associate Veterinarian NEAR SPRINGFIELD, MO! Are you looking for a vet practice where you can provide exceptional patient care, build lasting client relationships and enjoy a great ...

Animal Care Center

Veterinary Technician

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Fast paced veterinary clinic looking for a detail oriented veterinary technician. Main vet tech duties will include: * Obtaining samples and running tests as ordered by veterinarians, obtaining ...

All JobsAnimal Rescue JobsAnimal Rescue Jobs in Springfield, MO

Animal Rescue information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$8

$19

$25

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Springfield, MO is $19.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $22.74 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,826 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Animal Keeper 1 or 2 Ambassador Team

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium

Springfield, MO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Springfield, Missouri | Full-Time

Do you have a passion for wildlife, conservation, and creating unforgettable experiences for guests? Join the team at Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, one of America's premier wildlife attractions and an AZA-accredited institution dedicated to exceptional animal care, conservation, and education.

As a Keeper 1 or 2, you'll play an important role in caring for a diverse collection of animals while helping inspire the next generation of conservationists.

A Day in the Life

Every day brings something new. As a Keeper 1 or 2, you'll work directly with animals and the environments they call home. Your responsibilities may include:

  • Preparing and delivering diets for a variety of species
  • Monitoring animal health, behavior, and overall well-being
  • Maintaining clean, safe, and enriching habitats
  • Recording daily observations and supporting animal care documentation
  • Assisting with exhibit maintenance and operational tasks
  • Supporting educational programs and guest interactions
  • Collaborating with a dedicated team to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare

This is a hands-on role where you'll experience the rewards of making a meaningful impact on both animal care and visitor engagement.

What Makes You a Great Fit

Successful candidates are passionate about wildlife and eager to learn in a fast-paced environment. Key qualities include:

  • Knowledge of animal behavior, biology, or animal husbandry
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities
  • A positive, reliable work ethic
  • Adaptability and willingness to learn new skills
  • Commitment to animal welfare, conservation, and guest experience
Benefits & Perks

We value our team members and offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Life Insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Paid Time Off
  • Employee Discounts
  • Professional growth and development opportunities
  • The opportunity to work alongside passionate experts in a world-class facility
Why Wonders of Wildlife?

At Wonders of Wildlife, you'll be part of an organization recognized for excellence in animal care, conservation, and education. You'll have the unique opportunity to work in a dynamic environment that houses thousands of animals while helping guests develop a deeper connection to the natural world.

If you're ready to turn your passion for wildlife into a meaningful career, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply