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Entry Level Animal Care Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

All JobsEntry Level Animal Care JobsEntry Level Animal Care Jobs in Decatur, IL

Entry Level Animal Care information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$9

$17

$26

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

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animal care in Decatur, IL is $17.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $19.81 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL? The most popular types of Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL? For Entry Level Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animal Care jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Entry Level Animal Care jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Entry Level Animal Care job openings:
Entry Level Animal Care jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Animal Care job openings in Decatur, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 67% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,913 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
Laboratory Technician - Decatur, IL

Laboratory Technician - Decatur, IL

Archer Daniels Midland

Decatur, IL • On-site

$20.92/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description


Laboratory Technician - Decatur, IL
Corn Plant
This is a full-time, hourly position.
Pay Rate: $20.92/hour plus shift differential when applicable
Shift(s) Available: Shift would vary on availability/seniority. Could be 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or a rotating shift which entails working multiple shifts within the week. Must be available to work weekends, holidays, overtime, 8-12 hour shift when scheduled.
Learn more about ADM, click the links below;
https://youtu.be/VeGTVcFFJuo
https://www.adm.com/en-us/culture-and-careers/
Why Join?
  • Weekly Pay
  • Benefits Start First Day
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Drug Insurance
  • On-site 24/7 FREE medical care facility
  • Health and Wellness Incentives
  • Membership to ADM Wellness Center (Gym membership)
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • 401K/ESOP, pension with ADM (Archer Daniels Midland) matching contributions
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Short & Long-Term Disability
  • Company Paid Life Insurance and Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees,' Spouse and Children
  • Parental leave (paternity/maternity)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • Perks at work (discount program with several companies)
Expectations:
The entry level position is designed to train the new technician on each of the four (4) analytical aisles in the QC laboratory. In this role, they will prepare process and finished product samples; perform analytical testing using instrumental and wet chemistry procedures, and record results using computerized data systems. The entry level Laboratory Technician must have completed training on each aisle prior to their transition to the Laboratory Technician I position.
Aside from learning the skills necessary for advancement to the next level the entry level technician must also:
  • Complete both plant and laboratory safety orientations
  • Work safely to prevent on-the-job injuries by complying with all department and plant safety policies
  • React immediately to eliminate any hazards, unsafe equipment and/or acts. Additionally insures that any accidents, injuries and near misses are reported immediately to area supervision
  • Perform at least one Laboratory Safety audit per month
  • Complete at minimum 3 safety engagements each month
  • Willingness and ability to work within the time demands of a 24/7/365 workday operation
  • Demonstrate sufficient math skills to perform calculations associated with lab testing
  • Demonstrate ability to accept instruction, coaching, and constructive criticism as tools for continuous improvement
  • Demonstrate computer skills
  • Perform other duties as assigned by quality department management
Requirements (General):
  • This position requires 8-hour rotating shifts and must be flexible to work overtime as needed.
  • Training should be completed during the first year on the job.
  • Delay or failure to meet established training goals may delay promotion to the next level as well as lead to disciplinary action up to and including termination.
All technicians will be expected to show continuous improvement in all areas of KPI tracking. Performance issues will be addressed to ensure that the Entry Level Laboratory Technician has the opportunity to correct any of these concerns. Issues that cannot be corrected with the coaching process may lead to disciplinary action.
Requirements (Technical):
  • Each employee should possess a solid understanding of a laboratory environment and a working knowledge of cGMP, FDA, and other regulatory requirements.
  • Familiarity with Laboratory Instrumentation including HPLC, GC, and IC is beneficial.
  • New technicians are certified in each area around 60 days from when they begin working an aisle alone.
  • Laboratory Technician III and Supervision members watch them perform required tests to ensure they have been properly trained prior to sign off.
  • The Entry Level Laboratory Technician position requires no previous laboratory experience, but completion of a college science lab is preferred.
  • Experience in lieu of college laboratory experience will be considered on a case by case basis.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
REF:108270BR
About ADM
At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.
#IncludingYou
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.
We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law
Benefits and Perks
Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including:
  • Physical wellness - medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
  • Financial wellness - flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers' compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
  • Mental and social wellness - Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).
Additional benefits include:
  • Paid time off including paid holidays.
  • Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.
  • Tuition assistance.
  • Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs.
*Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter.
Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.
If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
The pay for this position is expected to be:

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