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Entry Level Animal Shelter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cabarrus County, NC

ANIMAL CARE SPECIALIST (VET TECH)

NC · On-site

$41K - $49K/yr

ANIMAL SHELTER Opening Date: 08/07/2025 Closing Date: Continuous Description Applicants are ... Initial placement for new employees is customarily at entry level through 35% percentile. Pay grade ...

County of St. Clair

Animal Care Technician

Port Huron, MI

$14.75 - $20/hr

Cares for all animals housed at the shelter, ensuring food and water is provided and that ... This is an entry level position. Ability to assist with handling or be present during euthanasia ...

City of St. Paul

Animal Services Officer I

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$55K - $77K/yr

... entry level work with the Saint Paul Animal Services Center (SPAS) enforcing animal and pest ... Provide routine janitorial services at the animal shelter. * Assist with vaccination and other ...

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$92K

How much do entry level animal shelter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level animal shelter in the United States is $55,973.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level animal shelter job?

Entry level animal shelter jobs are positions that typically require little to no prior experience in animal care. These roles often include responsibilities such as feeding, cleaning, and caring for animals, assisting with adoptions, and maintaining a safe and sanitary environment. Common job titles include Animal Care Attendant, Kennel Assistant, and Shelter Assistant. These positions provide valuable hands-on experience for those interested in animal welfare or a career in veterinary care. Most shelters provide on-the-job training, making them accessible to beginners.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level animal shelter worker?

To thrive as an Entry Level Animal Shelter Worker, you need basic animal care knowledge, physical stamina, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with animal management software, cleaning equipment, and safety protocols is often required. Compassion, patience, and strong communication skills help workers connect with animals and interact effectively with the public and team members. These skills are crucial for ensuring animal well-being, maintaining a safe and clean environment, and providing quality service to both animals and visitors.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level staff at animal shelters, and how can they prepare for them?

Entry-level staff at animal shelters often face challenges such as managing the emotional stress of caring for neglected or abused animals, handling a high volume of daily cleaning and feeding duties, and working in a fast-paced, sometimes understaffed environment. Building resilience, practicing good self-care, and seeking support from more experienced colleagues can help new employees adapt. Additionally, being proactive in learning shelter protocols and animal handling techniques sets a strong foundation for success in this role.

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

AspectEntry Level Animal ShelterEntry Level Animal Care Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some positions may require animal handling certificationsHigh school diploma; basic animal care training often preferred
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, rescue centers, non-profit organizationsAnimal shelters, veterinary clinics, pet care facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by shelters and rescue organizations to describe entry-level roles involving animal care and shelter operationsCommonly used in veterinary clinics and pet care facilities for entry-level animal handling roles

Both roles involve caring for animals and working in shelter or pet care environments. The main difference lies in the specific setting: 'Animal Shelter' roles are typically within shelters and rescue organizations, while 'Animal Care Assistant' roles are often found in veterinary clinics or pet care facilities. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers target the right opportunities based on their interests and experience.

Can you get hired at an entry level animal shelter?

Entry level animal shelter positions typically require minimal prior experience and often accept applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent. Candidates should have a genuine interest in animal care, good communication skills, and the ability to work in a team environment. Some roles may require basic knowledge of animal handling or first aid certifications, but many shelters provide on-the-job training.

Is it hard to work at an entry level animal shelter?

Working at an entry level animal shelter can be physically demanding and emotionally challenging due to tasks like cleaning, feeding, and caring for animals. It often requires patience, basic animal handling skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, but it generally does not require prior experience or advanced certifications.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Shelter jobs?

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What states have the most Entry Level Animal Shelter jobs?

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Entry Level Animal Shelter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Animal Shelter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,973 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Animal Shelter Attendant

Fruit Heights, UT • On-site

Davis County Government
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Davis County Governmentexternal

$12.22/hr

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Department: Animal Care Davis County
Salary: $12.22 Hourly
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Part-time position with a weekend schedule (Saturday & Sunday plus a Monday or Friday shift)
Must be at least 16 years old.
is currently hiring for Animal Shelter Attendant in Fruit Heights, Utah. This position assists with basic shelter functions at the Davis County Animal Shelter
Requirements
  • Must be at least 16 years old.
  • This is an entry level position. Related work experience is preferred but not required.

If this sounds like you, keep reading!
Day to Day Duties
  • Works with and around all types of animals and animal matter in enclosed areas.
  • Performs kenneling of dogs and cats delivered to the shelter; maintains physical control of both large and small dogs and feral cats by using a catchpole, squeeze trap, and other restraint devices.
  • Provides food and water for animals; grooms and bathes animals for adoptions; provides other necessary care for animals housed at the shelter. Administers medications, as directed by the Shelter Veterinarian, to animals recovering from injuries and/or surgeries.
  • Cleans animal cages, kennels, traps and transport carriers; assists in daily routine cleaning.
  • Meets and assists visitors who come to the shelter; provides information to the public; answers questions and helps resolve problems; receives and responds to citizen complaints.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Fill out our mobile-friendly online application. We hope to meet you soon!
Full Job Description
About Utah
From rugged red rocks to superb ski slopes, Utah has it all including 5 national parks! It's both a great place to raise a family and a great place to retire. While structured and traditional, we are equally focused on innovation for the future.
Known for our natural resources, we are also brimming with human resources. And, we are committed to attracting and utilizing the best of that human capital to help us accomplish our mission with ever-increasing efficiency and the highest degree of integrity. We show our employees that we value them by offering awesome benefits, work-life balance, and opportunities for professional development.
Check out all the reasons why Davis County is a great place to work, live and play:

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