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Entry Level Animals Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

AVS Bio

AVS Bio Poultry House Operator

Roanoke, IL · On-site

$22/hr

... entry-level, healthcare, or service-industry backgrounds! Location: Washburn, IL (No Relocation ... Work with live animals with risk of exposure to allergens and/or zoonotic disease(s). * House can ...

ADM

Lab Technician (Relief Swing Shift)

Decatur, IL · On-site

$22.41/hr

... animals across 6 continents Raise in partnership with ADM are seeking to hire a Lab Technician (Swing Night Shift) in Decatur, IL. Job Summary: The entry level position is designed to train the new ...

Tazewell County

Administrative Specialist

Tremont, IL · On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

Serves as an entry level specialist and provides information to departmental staff and the general ... Monitors access to the animal shelter; initially screens and intervenes with animals as needed ...

Tazewell County

Administrative Specialist

Tremont, IL

$43K - $58K/yr

Serves as an entry level specialist and provides information to departmental staff and the general ... Monitors access to the animal shelter; initially screens and intervenes with animals as needed ...

Tazewell County

Administrative Specialist

Tremont, IL · On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

Serves as an entry level specialist and provides information to departmental staff and the general ... Monitors access to the animal shelter; initially screens and intervenes with animals as needed ...

Tazewell County

Administrative Specialist

Tremont, IL · On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

Serves as an entry level specialist and provides information to departmental staff and the general ... Monitors access to the animal shelter; initially screens and intervenes with animals as needed ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Dekalb, IL · On-site

... passion for animals, Petco also offers a dynamic and rewarding environment, including ... Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Homewood, IL · On-site

... passion for animals, Petco also offers a dynamic and rewarding environment, including ... Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Palatine, IL · On-site

... passion for animals, Petco also offers a dynamic and rewarding environment, including ... Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Shorewood, IL · On-site

... passion for animals, Petco also offers a dynamic and rewarding environment, including ... Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAnimals JobsEntry Level Animals JobsEntry Level Animals Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Animals information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$16

$26

How much do entry level animals jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animals in Illinois is $16.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $16.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry-level animal job?

Entry-level animal jobs are positions that require little to no prior experience working with animals. These roles typically involve basic animal care tasks such as feeding, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and assisting with daily routines. Examples include kennel attendants, animal shelter workers, pet groomer assistants, and veterinary assistants. Entry-level positions provide valuable hands-on experience and can be a stepping stone to more advanced careers in animal care, veterinary medicine, or wildlife conservation.

What types of tasks can I expect to perform daily in an entry-level animal care position?

In an entry-level animal care role, your daily tasks typically include feeding and providing water for animals, cleaning enclosures or kennels, monitoring animal health and behavior, and assisting with basic grooming or exercise routines. You may also help with record keeping and work closely with veterinary staff or senior caretakers to ensure the well-being of animals. This role often requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and a genuine passion for animal welfare.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an entry-level animal care position, and why are they important?

To thrive in an entry-level animal care position, you need a basic understanding of animal behavior, proper handling techniques, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with animal care tools, cleaning equipment, and sometimes animal management software is typically required. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and a genuine compassion for animals help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are important for ensuring animal well-being and maintaining safe, effective care environments.

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

AspectEntry Level AnimalsAnimal Care Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic animal handling knowledgeHigh school diploma; some certifications in animal care preferred
Work EnvironmentZoos, shelters, pet stores, farmsVeterinary clinics, animal shelters, research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal shelters, pet stores, zoosVeterinary clinics, animal rescue organizations
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Animals vs Animal Care Assistant

Entry Level Animals typically refers to basic roles involving animal handling and care in various settings, often requiring minimal certifications. Animal Care Assistants usually have more specialized training and work closely with veterinary staff or in clinical environments. Both roles serve the purpose of caring for animals but differ in complexity, work environment, and required credentials.

How do I start to work with animals?

To start working with animals in entry-level roles, gain experience through volunteering at shelters or farms, and consider obtaining relevant certifications such as pet first aid or animal care courses. Developing skills in handling, feeding, and basic medical care can improve your chances of employment in pet care, grooming, or animal shelter positions.

How to start a career with animals?

Starting a career with animals often involves gaining relevant experience through volunteering or internships at shelters, zoos, or veterinary clinics. Obtaining certifications such as animal care or veterinary assistant credentials can improve job prospects, and entry-level roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent. Developing skills in animal handling, communication, and patience is also beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animals jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Animals jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Animals jobs in Illinois?

For Entry Level Animals jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Animals jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animals jobs in Illinois are:

Entry Level Animals jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Animals job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,605 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Animal Care Assistant- Entry Level (Weekends)

ShotVet

Naperville, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

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

???? Location: Naperville, IL (Traveling is required)
???? 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.