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Entry Level Animal Care Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Windsor, CT · On-site

S., Mexico and Puerto Rico, 250+ Vetco Total Care hospitals, hundreds of preventive care clinics ... Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Manchester, CT · On-site

S., Mexico and Puerto Rico, 250+ Vetco Total Care hospitals, hundreds of preventive care clinics ... Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Windsor, CT

S., Mexico and Puerto Rico, 250+ Vetco Total Care hospitals, hundreds of preventive care clinics ... Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Manchester, CT

S., Mexico and Puerto Rico, 250+ Vetco Total Care hospitals, hundreds of preventive care clinics ... Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes ...

All JobsAnimal Care JobsEntry Level Animal Care JobsEntry Level Animal Care Jobs in Springfield, MA

Entry Level Animal Care information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$10

$18

$26

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animal care in Springfield, MA is $18.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of 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?

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.

What is an entry level animal care job?

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 Springfield, MA? The most popular types of Animal Care jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Animal Care jobs in Springfield, MA? For Entry Level Animal Care jobs in Springfield, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Animal Care jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animal Care jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Entry Level Animal Care jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Entry Level Animal Care job openings:
Entry Level Animal Care jobs near you

Animal care provider

Valley Boarding Kennel LLC

South Windsor, CT

$16.50 - $17.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Looking for hardworking and reliable individuals to provide animal care/cleaning services within our boarding kennel and doggie daycare facility. 
  • Must have passion for animal care
  • Must be reliable, responsible and punctual
  • Must be flexible
  • Must be able to work independently as well as with others
  • Must have good communication skills
If you're interested in a fun and interesting entry level position in animal care this would be a great opportunity.