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Entry Level Animal Care Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Animal Care Technician

Wilmington, MA

$18 - $21.25/hr

Animal Care TechnicianLaunch Your Career in Biotechnology & Research Are you passionate about ... This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for candidates looking to gain hands-on experience in ...

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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 Aug 16, 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.

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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,056 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Animal care provider

Valley Boarding Kennel LLC

South Windsor, CT • On-site

$16.50 - $17.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Competitive salary
  • Employee discounts
  • Flexible schedule
  • Training & development

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.