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Animal Rescue Jobs in Yakima, WA (NOW HIRING)

Animal Medical Service

Veterinary Assistant

Yakima, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $17.66/hr

Animal Medical Service is seeking a Veterinary Assistant to join our team! This is an excellent position for candidates with foundational training who are looking to grow their career in veterinary ...

Western Veterinary Partners

Veterinary Assistant

Yakima, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $17.66/hr

Animal Medical Service is seeking a Veterinary Assistant to join our team! This is an excellent position for candidates with foundational training who are looking to grow their career in veterinary ...

NVA

Veterinary Extern - General Practice

Yakima, WA · On-site

$1K/wk

Tieton Drive Animal Clinic has been a reputable staple to the Yakima community since 1960. We are proud to serve our community with compassionate, comprehensive veterinary care for companion animals ...

NVA

Veterinary Extern - General Practice

Yakima, WA

$1K/wk

Tieton Drive Animal Clinic has been a reputable staple to the Yakima community since 1960. We are proud to serve our community with compassionate, comprehensive veterinary care for companion animals ...

All JobsAnimal Rescue JobsAnimal Rescue Jobs in Yakima, WA

Animal Rescue information

See Yakima, WA salary details

$9

$21

$27

How much do animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal rescue in Yakima, WA is $21.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $25.05 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 job categories do people searching Animal Rescue jobs in Yakima, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Rescue jobs in Yakima, WA are:
What cities near Yakima, WA are hiring for Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Yakima, WA with the most Animal Rescue job openings:
Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Rescue job openings in Yakima, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,885 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

Animal Medical Service

Yakima, WA • On-site

$17.13 - $17.66/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

Animal Medical Service is seeking a Veterinary Assistant to join our team! This is an excellent position for candidates with foundational training who are looking to grow their career in veterinary medicine.

In this role, you will provide assistance to Veterinary Technicians and Veterinarians, including gentle animal handling and restraint during outpatient procedures such as physical exams, vaccines, and blood draws. You will prepare and clean patient areas throughout the day including exam rooms and procedural/treatment areas, anticipating team needs and ensuring preparedness and efficiency.

This is an ideal position for efficient multi-taskers who enjoy a supportive role in a team-oriented environment!

This is a full-time position, with a flexible schedule and availability needed Monday-Friday. No weekends!

Full-time benefits and compensation**:

  • Compensation: $17.13- 17.66 per hour, for each hour worked*
  • Bonus package: $500 for those with 3+ years of consecutive, current experience
  • Health package: Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Life insurance and disability
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401k options
  • Paid time off in accordance with site policy and applicable law
  • Personal pet discount

Minimum qualifications and skill set:

  • 1+ years of veterinary experience in a clinical setting
  • Equine experience preferred
  • Proficiency in the following skills:
    • Patient restraint
    • Medical note taking
    • Oral medication administration

Get to know us:

Our clinic has been serving the Yakima Valley since 1994. We are a full-service mixed practice committed to providing the highest quality care for all the health needs to dogs, cats, and horses. We provide every patient we see with up-to-date treatments and individualized care given by our committed, dedicated, and well-trained staff. Our practice is equipped with advanced diagnostic features, including digital x-ray, in-house lab, ultrasound, laser therapy, and a fully equipped surgical suite, just to name a few. To learn more, we encourage you to visit our website.

Take the first step by applying today!

*To determine specific pay Company will consider the following factors: the applicant’s education, training, or experience related to the job position, geographic location where the work is performed, and other relevant factors.**During the process, you may request more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location where the work is performed. Where required under applicable law, WVP provides eligible employees with leave, and similar benefits programs, all in accordance with state and local law.WVP 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 under federal, state or local laws. WVP will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws.Qualified Applicants with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations under applicable state and local law, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please contact People Operations, if you need assistance completing the application process.