1

Animal Rescue Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Pima Animal Care Center is looking to hire an experienced cat technician wanting to make a difference by joining our Community Cats TNR (Trap Neuter Release) Team. In this role you will ensure stray ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced veterinarian (DVM) to join our team as Medical ... Additionally, we treat exotic pets (plus occasionally work with a local wildlife rescue), offering ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced veterinarian (DVM) to join our team as Medical ... Additionally, we treat exotic pets (plus occasionally work with a local wildlife rescue), offering ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced veterinarian (DVM) to join our team as Medical ... Additionally, we treat exotic pets (plus occasionally work with a local wildlife rescue), offering ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced veterinarian (DVM) to join our team as Medical ... Additionally, we treat exotic pets (plus occasionally work with a local wildlife rescue), offering ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced veterinarian (DVM) to join our team as Medical ... Additionally, we treat exotic pets (plus occasionally work with a local wildlife rescue), offering ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join our ... We see small animals and exotics and occasionally work with the local wildlife rescue. We're an ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join our ... We see small animals and exotics and occasionally work with the local wildlife rescue. We're an ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join our ... We see small animals and exotics and occasionally work with the local wildlife rescue. We're an ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join our ... We see small animals and exotics and occasionally work with the local wildlife rescue. We're an ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join our ... We see small animals and exotics and occasionally work with the local wildlife rescue. We're an ...

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join our ... We see small animals and exotics and occasionally work with the local wildlife rescue. We're an ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Animal Rescue information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$8

$19

$25

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Tucson, AZ is $19.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 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 Tucson, AZ? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Tucson, AZ are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Tucson, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Tucson, AZ are:
What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Tucson, AZ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,833 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
Veterinarian - Acacia Animal Hospital

Veterinarian - Acacia Animal Hospital

Western Veterinary Partners

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Western Veterinary Partners rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

Acacia Animal Hospital is seeking a full-time or part-time Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join our multi-doctor team in Tucson, Arizona.
This is an excellent opportunity for a DVM who has hands-on experience and is confident in surgery and medical exams; however, we're also open to new graduates. Experience with exotics and/or an interest in orthopedics is a plus, but not required.
Our strengths:
  • Providing compassionate care to dogs, cats, and exotics
  • Utilizing our experienced and well-trained technical team
  • Upholding the high standards of our AAHA-accreditation
  • Remaining family-oriented and understanding our team members deserve time away from work

Benefits package:
  • Competitive compensation DOE
  • Exciting bonus / relocation package
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (with HSA option)
  • Support your professional interests, whatever they may be!
  • Generous annual PTO
  • Paid parental leave / bonding time
  • Annual CE allowance with days off to attend
  • Professional development assistance
  • Paid professional membership dues / licensing / AVMA PLIT
  • Structured mentorship program
  • 401(k) options
  • Personal pet discounts
  • VIN membership
  • Investment in your interests (park passes, charity donation, etc.)
  • Plus more!

An inside look at Acacia Animal Hospital:
We strive to be a comprehensive care facility and have spent 10+ years cultivating relationships in our community to see the importance of a patient focused medicine approach. We see small animals and exotics and occasionally work with the local wildlife rescue. We're an AAHA-accredited practice that is equipped with digital radiographs, ultrasound, cold laser, warming surgical tables, and more. We have five exam rooms, IDEXX in-house laboratory (including sedivue), and perform everything from general wellness checks to orthopedic surgery, TPLO, and dental services. Hard-working and compassionate individuals who love helping animals and want to continue to grow on the job make the best additions to our team.
  • Meet our multi-doctor team: www.acacia-vets.com/veterinarian-tucson-az
  • Learn more: www.acacia-vets.com

Required for this role:
  • DVM/VMD degree from an accredited veterinary program, or currently enrolled and expected to graduate from an accredited veterinary program
  • Licensed or license-eligible in Arizona

Our salary ranges are primarily determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The Company offers competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision benefits, vacation, sick leave, 401(k), and more depending on location. You will be provided more detailed information about compensation and benefits for your specific location. Where required under applicable law, the company provides eligible employees with paid sick leave, health emergency leave, and similar benefits programs, all in accordance with the requirements of state and local law depending on the location of the practice you support.
The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. Hiring decisions will be based on merit, qualifications and business needs.
DON'T WAIT! Apply today!
#CS
#LI-SP1

What Western Veterinary Partners employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom