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Animal Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Calo Programs

Animal Assisted Group Therapist

Springfield, MO · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Animal Assisted Therapy Clinical Coordinator plays a key role in delivering high-quality, trauma-informed programming within the Calo Animal Assisted Therapy model. In this position, you will ...

Calo Programs

Animal Assisted Group Therapist

Springfield, MO

$70K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Animal Assisted Therapy Clinical Coordinator plays a key role in delivering highquality, traumainformed programming within the Calo Animal Assisted Therapy model. In this position, you will ...

Calo Programs

Animal Assisted Group Therapist

Springfield, MO

$70K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Animal Assisted Therapy Clinical Coordinator plays a key role in delivering highquality, traumainformed programming within the Calo Animal Assisted Therapy model. In this position, you will ...

DVMelite

Associate Veterinarian AAH

Springfield, MO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Angel Animal Hospital / Integrative Veterinary Services of Missouri About Us For over 60 years, Angel Animal Hospital has proudly served the Springfield community with compassionate, high-quality ...

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All JobsAnimal JobsAnimal Jobs in Springfield, MO

Animal information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$8

$19

$25

How much do animal jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal in Springfield, MO is $19.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $22.74 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.
More about Animal jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal jobs in Springfield, MO?

The most popular types of Animal jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What are popular job titles related to Animal jobs in Springfield, MO?

For Animal jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal jobs in Springfield, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Animal jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Animal job openings:

Animal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,822 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Animal Swing Keeper

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium

Springfield, MO • On-site

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Animal Swing Keeper 1, 2, or SeniorWonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium | Springfield, MOWork With Some of the Most Unique Animal Species in the CountryDo you have experience caring for mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, or invertebrates and want to make a difference in animal welfare and conservation?Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium is seeking passionate Animal Swing Keepers (Level 1, Level 2, and Senior) to join our Life Sciences team. This position provides hands-on care for a diverse animal collection while helping create exceptional experiences for guests at one of America's premier wildlife attractions.What You'll DoProvide daily care for a diverse collection of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insectsPrepare diets and support veterinary care programsMaintain exhibits, service areas, and holding spaces to the highest standardsParticipate in animal training and enrichment programsMonitor animal health and behavior while maintaining accurate recordsAssist with guest interactions and educational experiencesCollaborate with fellow animal care professionals, interns, and volunteersWhat We're Looking ForBachelor's degree in Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience)Professional animal care experience in a zoo, aquarium, wildlife facility, sanctuary, or similar settingKnowledge of animal husbandry, enrichment, and behavior trainingExperience using operant conditioning techniquesStrong communication and teamwork skillsAbility to work independently with attention to detailAbility to lift up to 50 pounds and work in various animal care environmentsWhy Join Wonders of Wildlife?Care for an incredible collection of animal species from around the worldWork alongside experienced animal care professionalsOpportunities for growth from Keeper I to Senior KeeperBe part of an AZA-accredited organization dedicated to conservation and educationMake a lasting impact on animal welfare and guest experiencesBenefitsMedical, Dental, and Vision InsuranceCompany-Paid Life InsuranceShort-Term and Long-Term Disability401(k)Paid Time OffEmployee Discounts at Attractions and Retail LocationsAbout Wonders of WildlifeJohnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium is a world-class conservation attraction featuring more than 35,000 live animals and immersive wildlife experiences. Recognized by USA TODAY as one of America's best aquariums and attractions, Wonders of Wildlife inspires millions of guests through conservation, education, and extraordinary animal experiences.Apply today and turn your passion for animal care into a rewarding career.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro