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Animal Rescue Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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Animal Rescue information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$23

$31

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Washington, DC is $23.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $28.32 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, relevant experience with animals, and strong compassion. Volunteering at shelters or rescue organizations can provide valuable skills, and some roles may require certifications in animal care or first aid.

What degree do I need for animal rescue?

Animal rescue jobs typically do not require a specific degree, but a background in animal science, biology, or related fields can be beneficial. Relevant skills include animal handling, first aid, and knowledge of animal behavior, and certifications such as pet first aid or CPR can enhance employability.

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.

Do animal rescues pay employees?

Animal rescue organizations may pay employees, especially those in full-time or specialized roles, but many positions are volunteer-based. Salaries can vary depending on the organization, location, and job responsibilities, with some rescues offering stipends or part-time wages. Certification in animal care or related skills can improve employment prospects and pay rates.

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 such as zoo directors or animal pharmacologists may also command higher salaries, especially with extensive experience and advanced certifications.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Washington, DC are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Washington, DC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,570 per year, or $23.8 per hour.
Animal Care Technician I, Division of Comparative Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center

Animal Care Technician I, Division of Comparative Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center

Georgetown University

Washington, DC • On-site

$17.95 - $26.84/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago


Georgetown University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

242nd of 539 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Georgetown University comprises two unique campuses in the nation's capital. With the Hilltop Campus located in the heart of the historic Georgetown neighborhood, and the Capitol Campus, just minutes from the U.S. Capitol and U.S. Supreme Court, Georgetown University offers rigorous academic programs, a global perspective, and unparalleled opportunities to engage with Washington, D.C. Our community is a close-knit group of remarkable individuals driven by intellectual inquiry, a commitment to social justice, and a shared dedication to making a difference in the world.
Requirements
Job Overview
The Animal Care Technician exists to support the Division of Comparative Medicine's animal husbandry function in support of animal research initiatives. The position performs daily husbandry for laboratory animals, including handling, feeding, watering, changing cages, and monitoring the health of laboratory animals. They will follow standard operating procedures and maintain compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The position assists with cage wash and autoclave operation and sanitizes areas and/or equipment.
Work Interactions
The Animal Care Technician fulfills animal husbandry duties as directed by their direct supervisor (Animal Care Supervisor), facility manager, and Director of the Division of Comparative Medicine. The work performed by the technician supports Georgetown University's research vision and mission by providing a compliant and ethical research facility to conduct biomedical research. The incumbent will be working in a designated work area, but will also spend a significant amount of time in the animal facility where he/she could be exposed to biological hazards, chemicals, and laboratory animals. The technician will also interact with other animal care technicians, veterinary technicians, veterinarians, and research faculty and staff.
Requirements and Qualifications
  • High school diploma
  • Prior experience working with animals and AALAS certification are preferred
  • Must be able to lift 50 lbs, work in hot and/or steamy environments, work with animals/animal odors and perform work that involves repetitive bending, twisting, and pushing motions.
  • Must possess verbal and written communication skills to read and follow instructions in English

Work Mode Desgination
This position has been designated as On-Campus. Please note that work mode designations are regularly reviewed in order to meet the evolving needs of the University. Such review may necessitate a change to a position's mode of work designation. Complete details about Georgetown University's mode of work designations for staff and AAP positions can be found on the Department of Human Resources website: https://hr.georgetown.edu/mode-of-work-designation.
Pay Range:
The projected salary or hourly pay range for this position which represents the full range of anticipated compensation is:
$17.95 - $26.84
Compensation is determined by a number of factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's individual qualifications, experience, education, skills, and certifications, as well as the University's business needs and external factors.
Current Georgetown Employees:
If you currently work at Georgetown University, please exit this website and login to GMS (gms.georgetown.edu) using your Net ID and password. Then select the Career worklet on your GMS Home dashboard to view Jobs at Georgetown.
Submission Guidelines:
Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any position at Georgetown University you must submit a resume for each position of interest for which you believe you are qualified. Documents are not kept on file for future positions.
Need Assistance:
If you are a qualified individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodations for any part of the application and hiring process, please visit the Office for Equal Opportunity Compliance website for general information about requesting accommodations, as well as information about requesting accommodations specifically for applicants. You also can also contact the Office for Equal Opportunity Compliance at (202) 687-4798 or oeoc@georgetown.edu.
Need some assistance with the application process? Please call 202-687-2500. For more information about the suite of benefits, professional development and community involvement opportunities that make up Georgetown's commitment to its employees, please visit the Georgetown Works website.
EEO Statement:
GU is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, and will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, citizenship, color, disability, family responsibilities, gender identity and expression, genetic information, marital status, matriculation, national origin, race, religion, personal appearance, political affiliation, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Benefits:
Georgetown University offers a comprehensive and competitive benefit package that includes medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance, retirement savings, tuition assistance, work-life balance benefits, employee discounts and an array of voluntary insurance options. You can learn more about benefits and eligibility on the Department of Human Resources website.

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About Georgetown University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Georgetown University, located in Washington, DC, US, is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the higher education industry. As a private research university, Georgetown offers a wide range of programs and services in various academic disciplines. The institution was founded in 1789 by John Carroll, America's first Catholic bishop, and carries a rich history ingrained in Jesuit values like cura personalis (care for the whole person) and men and women for others. The mission of Georgetown University is to shape individuals who seek to better the world and its diverse cultures, thus creating a positive impact on societies. It is recognized for its fruitful legacy in academics, commitment to social justice, and fostering of global awareness and understanding among its students.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

1789