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Entry Level Animals Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Mason City, IA · 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

Mason City, IA · 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 ...

All JobsAnimals JobsEntry Level Animals JobsEntry Level Animals Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Animals information

How to start a career with animals?

To start a career with animals, consider gaining experience through volunteering or internships at shelters, farms, or veterinary clinics. Obtain relevant certifications such as animal care or grooming licenses, and develop skills in handling and caring for different species. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma and a passion for working with animals.

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 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 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.

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.

How do I start to work with animals?

To start working with animals in an entry-level role, 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 health care, along with a genuine interest in animals, can help you qualify for entry-level positions like animal care assistant or kennel attendant.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animals jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Animals jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Animals jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Animals jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Animals jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animals jobs in Iowa are:
Entry Level Animals jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Animals job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Sales Representative Entry Level

Northwestern Mutual - Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$61K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Retirement
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Company parties
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance

At Northwestern Mutual Cedar Rapids, we are committed to building the most financially secure communities in America, one person, one family, and one business at a time. Recognized as one of CBJ’s Coolest Places to Work and honored with the Training APEX Award, Forbes: Best Employers for New Grads, and WayUp: Top 100 Internships, our office combines industry-leading training with a culture of growth and inclusion. From our Leadership Development Program and Women’s Affinity Summit to our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion committee (IMPOWER), we foster an environment where everyone has the tools and support to succeed. Beyond professional growth, we are deeply committed to giving back, supporting causes like Alex’s Lemonade Stand, the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital, and pediatric cancer research through local events that make a lasting impact.
Our thriving office is located at: 401 1st St SE Suite 401 Cedar Rapids IA 52401
A Glance at Northwestern Mutual (NM):
Northwestern Mutual is a FORTUNE 500® company that provides a wide range of financial services to more than 5 million people. As a mutual company, we answer to our policyowners—not Wall Street. We began in Wisconsin in 1857, and today we’re one of America’s top companies - as was recognized by FORTUNE ® as one of the “World’s Most Admired” companies in 2024 - with a unique culture deeply dedicated to helping people achieve financial security.
  
Meet Our Local Team:
Kalvin Grabau Keele, CHFC, CLU, RICP – Managing Partner/Wealth Management Advisor:
  • Time with NM: 20 years.
  • Prior Experience: Kalvin began his career with Northwestern Mutual as a college intern and has been with the firm ever since, growing into leadership and advanced planning roles over nearly two decades.
  • Passionate About: Kalvin values faith, family, and fun. He enjoys sports, reading, and writing, and finds fulfillment in staying active and spending time with loved ones.
Ben Frazier – District Director:
  • Time with NM: 5 years.
  • Prior Experience: Ben served as a Medical Officer in the Army National Guard before transitioning into financial services.
  • Passionate About: Ben loves animals, music festivals, and traveling overseas. He also enjoys kickboxing and is passionate about giving back to his community.
Kate Berry – Financial Advisor:
  • Time with NM: 2 years.
  • Prior Experience: Kate attended law school and was planning to become a lawyer before discovering her career path with Northwestern Mutual.
  • Passionate About: Kate spends much of her time on the farm and is a devoted animal lover, especially of cattle, horses, and dogs. She enjoys DIY projects, scrapbooking, hunting, and fishing. Faith is central to her life—she dedicates time to studying the Bible, has participated in many mission trips, and volunteers as a coach for Upwards Sports, teaching kids about Christ through athletics.
Kyle Reeve – Financial Advisor:
  • Time with NM: 3 years.
  • Prior Experience: Kyle worked in public education for 15 years, serving as both a teacher and a school principal.
  • Passionate About: Kyle enjoys spending time with his family, especially his two young boys who keep him active with their activities. His family is involved in their church and loves time together on the golf course and at their family’s cabin.
About the Financial Representative Role: As a Financial Representative at Northwestern Mutual, you will be part of a team that helps individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals through personalized insurance solutions and financial planning. Your role involves building long-term relationships with clients, understanding their unique needs, and providing tailored financial solutions.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Client Consultation: Engage with clients to understand their financial goals, aspirations, and concerns.
  • Financial Planning: Develop comprehensive financial plans that include investments, insurance, and retirement.
  • Insurance Solutions: Recommend and implement insurance strategies to protect clients' assets and income.
  • Ongoing Support: Monitor clients' financial plans and provide regular updates, adjusting strategies as needed to meet changing circumstances.
  • Networking: Build and maintain a network of clients through referrals, community involvement, and professional associations.
Qualifications:
  • Education: A bachelor's degree is preferred.
  • Experience: Previous experience in financial services or business development is beneficial but not required.
  • Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to build trust and rapport with clients.
  • Licenses: Obtain necessary licenses, such as Series 6, 63, and state insurance licenses (training and sponsorship available).
Benefits:
  • Professional Development: Access to ongoing training and development programs, including sponsorship for advanced certifications.
  • Income Potential: Competitive compensation structure including performance incentives, with no ceiling.
  • Support and Mentorship: Comprehensive support from a dedicated planning team, marketing resources, and experienced mentors.
  • Work-Life Balance: Flexibility to create a schedule that fits your lifestyle and goals.
  • Retirement Benefits: Company-funded pension and contributions to PFGF—our version of a profit-sharing retirement plan designed to support your long-term financial future.
  • Impact: Make a lasting impact by guiding individuals and families in your community towards financial security and success.

Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Kalvin Grabau Keele is a Managing Partner for NM and is not in legal partnership with NM, or its subsidiaries.