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Animal Shelters Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Animal Care Associate

Mesa, AZ ยท On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

As one of the largest animal shelters in the Nation, we need your support to make a difference! We want you to be our next diligent Animal Care Associate, providing daily care and support for our ...

Animal Care Associate

Mesa, AZ ยท On-site

$19 - $32.50/hr

As one of the largest animal shelters in the Nation, we need your support to make a difference! We want you to be our next diligent Animal Care Associate, providing daily care and support for our ...

Animal Care Lead

Mesa, AZ ยท On-site

$21 - $27/hr

As one of the largest animal shelters in the nation, we need your support to make a difference! Maricopa County Animal Care & Control is seeking a motivated and diligent Animal Care Lead to provide ...

Manages animal control shelters in absence of Animal Control Officer. Essential Job Functions: Plans and organizes work according to authorized procedures and priorities. Responds to animal complaint ...

Manages animal control shelters in absence of Animal Control Officer. Essential Job Functions: Plans and organizes work according to authorized procedures and priorities. Responds to animal complaint ...

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Animal Shelters information

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How much do animal shelters jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal shelters in the United States is $18.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working in animal shelters and how are they addressed?

Staff in animal shelters often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of animals, dealing with emotionally difficult cases, and maintaining cleanliness and safety standards. Addressing these issues typically involves teamwork, ongoing training in animal care and behavior, and support systems for staff well-being. Many shelters also implement structured procedures for animal intake and adoption, as well as collaboration with veterinarians and volunteers to ensure the best outcomes for both animals and employees.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an animal shelter role, and why are they important?

To thrive in an animal shelter role, you need a basic understanding of animal care, handling, and welfare, often supported by experience or training in animal science or veterinary assistance. Familiarity with animal management software, sanitation protocols, and sometimes certifications in animal first aid are typically required. Compassion, patience, and strong communication skills help build trust with animals and engage effectively with the public and team members. These abilities ensure the well-being of shelter animals, promote efficient operations, and support successful adoptions.

What are animal shelters?

Animal shelters are facilities dedicated to the care, housing, and rehabilitation of stray, abandoned, or surrendered animals, primarily dogs and cats. Their main purpose is to provide a safe environment for these animals until they can be adopted into permanent homes. Animal shelters may also offer medical care, spay/neuter services, and work to reunite lost pets with their owners. Many shelters rely on volunteers and donations to operate effectively. They play a crucial role in animal welfare and community education.
More about Animal Shelters jobs
What cities are hiring for Animal Shelters jobs? Cities with the most Animal Shelters job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Shelters jobs? The most popular types of Animal Shelters jobs are:
What states have the most Animal Shelters jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Shelters jobs include:
Infographic showing various Animal Shelters job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,056 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Animal Control Officer

Galveston County Health District

Texas City, TX โ€ข On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description


Galveston County Health District is seeking a dedicated Animal Control Officer to patrol assigned areas, respond to citizen calls, capture and confine stray or dangerous animals, and enforce ordinances to protect the community and animals. This role is hands-on and essential for public safety and animal welfare.

Why Join Us?
We offer a career with fantastic benefits, including:

  • Amazing retirement package to secure your future
  • Affordable medical insurance to keep you and your family covered
  • Generous paid time off so you can recharge
  • FREE life insurance & long-term disability for peace of mind
  • FREE parking because the little things matter too!

What You'll Do:

  • Patrol assigned areas and respond to citizen calls regarding dogs, cats, and non-domestic animals as approved
  • Capture and confine diseased, injured, stray, or aggressive animals
  • Investigate complaints, cruelty cases, abandoned animals, and barking dog issues
  • Document incidents, bite investigations, citations, and maintain logs in Animal Services software
  • Operate and maintain animal control vehicles safely
  • Perform euthanasia of vicious, diseased, or unclaimed animals following policy and procedures
  • Follow up on quarantines, animal bites, and court cases
  • Maintain continuing education to retain Basic Animal Control Officer certification
  • Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor

What We're Looking For:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 1+ year experience in government animal control, animal shelters, or animal-oriented volunteer work preferred
  • Experience handling aggressive animals and using animal control equipment (catch poles, leashes, muzzles, traps, injections) required
  • Knowledge of safe driving, county geography, ordinances, and statutes related to animal control preferred
  • Euthanasia certification preferred (must obtain within 6 months if not already certified)
  • Valid Texas driver's license
  • Strong communication, customer service, and computer skills
  • Willingness to work evenings and weekends
  • Must pass background check, drug/alcohol screening, and DMV/MVR checks

Equivalent education and experience may be considered

Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
No phone calls please
ADA / EEO / DFWP

Our Mission: Protecting and Promoting the One Health of Galveston County

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Galveston County Health District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace. Applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status.