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Animal Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

ANIMAL CARE ASSOCIATE

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$17.75 - $20/hr

Animal Care Associate DEPARTMENT:Operations REPORTS TO:Operations Manager, Shelter Care STATUS:Non-Exempt GENERAL SUMMARY Under the direct supervision of the Operations Manager, the Animal Care ...

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Animal information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$9

$20

$27

How much do animal jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal in Park Ridge, IL is $20.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $24.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are animal jobs?

Animal jobs refer to occupations that involve working directly or indirectly with animals. These roles can include veterinarians, animal trainers, zookeepers, animal shelter workers, wildlife biologists, and pet groomers, among others. People in animal jobs may care for, study, train, or protect different species of animals in various environments. These careers often require a passion for animal welfare and may involve both physical and emotional demands. Some positions may also require specialized education or certifications.

What are some common challenges faced by animal caretakers in a shelter environment?

Animal caretakers in shelters often face challenges such as managing a high volume of animals, addressing diverse medical and behavioral needs, and coping with emotionally demanding situations like animal surrenders or adoptions. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as caretakers frequently collaborate with veterinarians, volunteers, and adoption counselors to ensure the well-being of each animal. Additionally, maintaining cleanliness and safety standards in a fast-paced environment can be physically demanding but is crucial for disease prevention and animal comfort.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal caretaker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Caretaker, you need a solid understanding of animal behavior, basic veterinary care, and handling techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with animal management software, feeding protocols, and cleaning equipment is typically required. Compassion, patience, and strong observational skills help caretakers respond effectively to animal needs and recognize health issues early. These skills ensure animal well-being, safe environments, and effective daily operations in shelters, zoos, or veterinary facilities.

What careers work with animals?

There are a number of exciting careers in which you work with animals on a daily basis. Some of the more well-known careers are zoologist and veterinary doctor. As a zoologist, you can work with a wide variety of wild animals in a zoo setting. While zoos are the most common setting, there are a wide variety of research settings in which you can work as well. As a veterinarian, you take care of domestic animals in a pet hospital or vet clinic. You can also work with farm animals. Some lesser known career options are marine biologist, animal trainer, pet groomer, and dog warden. There are also careers for people that would be interested in breeding animals such as dogs and cats.

What is the difference between Animal vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAnimalVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsNone or basic animal handling certificationsLicensed or certified, often requiring an associate degree
Work EnvironmentZoos, farms, pet stores, research labsVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, clinics
Industry UsageAnimal care, research, educationMedical support in veterinary settings
Common Search IntentAnimal care roles, animal handling jobsVet tech jobs, veterinary support roles

Animal roles focus on general care, handling, and management of animals across various environments. Veterinary technicians specialize in supporting veterinarians with medical procedures, diagnostics, and patient care in clinical settings. While both work with animals, veterinary technicians require specific certifications and work primarily in veterinary practices, whereas animal roles are broader and include diverse environments.

What careers can I have with animals?

Careers with animals include roles such as veterinarian, zookeeper, animal trainer, wildlife rehabilitator, and pet groomer. These jobs often require specific training, certifications, or degrees, and may involve working in environments like clinics, zoos, shelters, or outdoor settings.

What careers do you work with animals?

Careers working with animals include roles such as veterinarian, animal trainer, zookeeper, wildlife rehabilitator, and pet groomer. These jobs often require specific training, certifications, or degrees, and involve working in environments like clinics, zoos, shelters, or outdoor settings.

What job categories do people searching Animal jobs in Park Ridge, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:

What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Animal jobs?

Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Animal job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal job openings in Park Ridge, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,082 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Vet Tech Student Externship- Oakton Animal Hospital

Oakton Animal Hospital

Elk Grove Village, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Practice
Oakton Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital that welcomes emergency treatment cases and pet patients needing routine medical, surgical, and dental care.
Our hospital is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). This professional organization requires that our hospital meet the highest standards of excellence for the practice of veterinary medicine. It also requires that our hospital be inspected periodically in order to maintain our accreditation.
Position Purpose
Come extern with us!
Heartland Veterinary Partners' Vet Tech Externship Program works to provide externship support for veterinary technician students.
Externship length & requirements are dependent upon your university.
Requirements/Qualifications
Eligibility
Must be currently enrolled in an accredited Veterinary Technician School