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Entry Level Animal Care Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astrix Inc

Animal Care Technician

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Train and mentor entry-level Animal Care Technicians. Qualifications: * High School Diploma or GED with 2+ years of laboratory animal or veterinary experience, OR * Associate's or Bachelor's degree ...

Dallas Zoo

General Application - Animal Care

Dallas, TX

$15.50 - $21/hr

Zoologist - Our entry-level animal care staff provide daily care for a variety of species while gaining valuable experience in husbandry, enrichment, and behavioral observation. Senior Zoologist ...

Roaring Brook Kennels

Animal Care Attendant

Canton, CT · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Follow safety protocols to ensure personal and animal safety Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in animal care * High school diploma or equivalent * Knowledge of animal handling ...

K9 Country Club

Be Seen First

Animal Care Provider

Mason, OH · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Valid Driver's License Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in animal care * High school diploma or equivalent * Proficiency in animal handling and sanitation procedures * Strong record ...

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Entry Level Animal Care information

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How much do entry level animal care jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animal care 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.

How can I start working with animals?

To start working as an entry-level animal care worker, gaining hands-on experience through volunteering at shelters or farms is helpful. Obtaining basic knowledge of animal behavior and handling, and sometimes earning certifications like pet first aid, can improve job prospects. Entry-level roles often require physical stamina, reliability, and a genuine interest in animal welfare.

What jobs can I do if I love animals?

Entry level animal care jobs include positions such as veterinary assistant, pet groomer, kennel attendant, and animal shelter worker. These roles typically require basic animal handling skills, patience, and sometimes certification or training in animal care or safety procedures.

How to get started in animal care?

To start a career in animal care, gain relevant experience through volunteering or internships at shelters, farms, or veterinary clinics. Obtain basic certifications such as pet first aid or animal handling, and develop skills in communication, patience, and animal observation. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent and a genuine interest in working with animals.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for an entry level animal care worker?

As an entry level animal care worker, your day-to-day tasks usually include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health and behavior, and assisting with basic grooming or exercise routines. You’ll likely work closely with senior staff, veterinarians, and sometimes interact with the public, especially if you’re in a shelter or zoo environment. Attention to detail and strong observation skills are important, as early detection of health issues is a key part of the role. The work can be physically demanding but highly rewarding for animal lovers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Animal Care worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Animal Care worker, you need basic animal handling skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cleaning protocols, animal restraint equipment, and record-keeping systems is typically required. Compassion, patience, and strong teamwork skills help you build trust with animals and collaborate effectively with colleagues. These skills ensure the well-being of animals, maintain facility standards, and support a safe, supportive environment for both animals and staff.

How to work at a vet with no experience?

Entry level animal care positions at veterinary clinics often do not require prior experience; instead, they look for candidates with a genuine interest in animals, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn. Gaining basic knowledge of animal behavior, handling, and safety procedures, along with volunteering or assisting at shelters, can improve your chances. Some roles may require a high school diploma or equivalent and may offer on-the-job training.

What are entry level animal care jobs?

Entry level animal care jobs involve assisting in the daily care and well-being of animals in settings such as shelters, veterinary clinics, zoos, or pet boarding facilities. Responsibilities typically include feeding, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, providing enrichment, and sometimes assisting with basic grooming or medical tasks. These positions often require a genuine love for animals, attention to detail, and the ability to work physically demanding shifts. Entry level roles serve as a foundation for those interested in pursuing advanced careers in animal care or veterinary medicine.

What is the difference between Entry Level Animal Care vs Veterinary Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Animal CareVeterinary Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications optionalHigh school diploma; some certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, pet stores, kennelsVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal care facilities, pet organizationsVeterinary practices, animal healthcare industry
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Animal Care vs Veterinary Assistant

Entry Level Animal Care roles focus on basic animal handling and care in shelters or pet stores, often requiring minimal certifications. Veterinary Assistants work in clinics, assisting veterinarians with medical tasks, and may need specific certifications. Both roles involve working closely with animals, but Veterinary Assistants typically have more medical responsibilities and work in clinical settings.

More about Entry Level Animal Care jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Animal Care jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Animal Care job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Care jobs? The most popular types of Animal Care jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Animal Care jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Animal Care jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Animal Care jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animal Care jobs are:
Entry Level Animal Care jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Animal Care job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 5% Full Time, 90% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,056 per year, or $18.3 per hour.
Animal Care Assistant- Entry Level (Weekends)

Animal Care Assistant- Entry Level (Weekends)

ShotVet

Chesterfield, MO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

???? Animal Care Assistant (Weekend Mobile Clinic) – No Experience Needed!

???? Location: Chesterfield, MO (must be open to travel)
???? Schedule: Friday–Sunday
???? Pay: Competitive Hourly Rate + Bonus Opportunities
???? Experience: No experience required – Paid training provided

Love animals? Start your career in veterinary care with ShotVet helping veterinarians provide affordable pet vaccine and wellness clinics for dogs and cats.

What You’ll Do

  • Assist veterinarians during pet vaccine clinics

  • Handle and comfort dogs and cats

  • Help with check-in, paperwork, and client support

  • Support clinic setup and breakdown

Requirements

  • Valid driver’s license required and HS Diploma or GED

  • Comfortable handling dogs and cats; Highly Preferred - existing knowledge in Preventative Wellness for pets

  • Able to lift up to 40 lbs

  • Reliable and team-oriented

Perfect For

  • Students interested in veterinary medicine

  • Future Veterinary Assistants / Vet Techs

  • Anyone looking for an entry level animal care job

  • Those who like to travel!

Apply today to gain hands-on experience helping pets stay healthy.