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Exotic Pet Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Groomer

Richardson, TX · On-site

$1/hr

Cat and exotic pet grooming a plus * Grooming duties required to perform: bath with shampoo and conditioner, blow dry, deep brushing or furminating, cleaning ears, brushing teeth, clipping and/or ...

Veterinarian

Brunswick, ME · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Exotic pet medicine and surgery * Pharmacy services * Modern surgical and treatment facilities You'll work alongside a collaborative seven-doctor team supported by experienced veterinary technicians ...

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Exotic Pet information

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$10

$17

$23

How much do exotic pet jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for exotic pet in the United States is $17.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an exotic pet?

Exotic pets are animals that are not commonly kept as household pets and typically include species that are less domesticated than cats or dogs. Examples include reptiles like snakes and lizards, birds such as parrots, small mammals like ferrets or sugar gliders, and even some amphibians and insects. Keeping exotic pets often requires specialized knowledge, unique habitats, and adherence to local regulations. Owners should be aware of the animal's specific dietary, environmental, and social needs. It's important to research thoroughly before acquiring an exotic pet to ensure proper care and legal compliance.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an exotic pet veterinarian?

To thrive as an Exotic Pet Veterinarian, you need in-depth knowledge of exotic animal medicine, strong diagnostic abilities, and a DVM degree with appropriate licensure. Familiarity with specialized diagnostic tools, anesthesia equipment, and species-specific treatment protocols is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and patience help build trust with pet owners and manage the unique challenges of treating non-traditional pets. These skills are critical for providing high-quality care and ensuring the health and well-being of a diverse range of exotic animals.

What are common challenges faced by exotic pet veterinarians in daily practice?

Exotic Pet Veterinarians often encounter challenges such as diagnosing rare conditions due to the wide variety of species they treat, each with unique anatomy and medical needs. They may also face difficulties in obtaining accurate medical histories, as owners may not recognize subtle signs of illness in exotic animals. Additionally, sourcing specialized medications or equipment can be complex, and educating pet owners about proper husbandry is a frequent and essential part of the job. Collaboration with veterinary technicians and sometimes with wildlife specialists is common to ensure comprehensive care.

What is the difference between Exotic Pet vs Exotic Animal Care Specialist?

AspectExotic PetExotic Animal Care Specialist
Required CredentialsBasic knowledge, certifications varyVeterinary or specialized animal care certifications
Work EnvironmentPet stores, private homes, rescue centersZoos, wildlife sanctuaries, veterinary clinics
Industry UsagePet ownership, retailAnimal conservation, research, veterinary care
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding exotic pet careSpecialized animal care and conservation

Exotic Pet refers to individual owners or pet enthusiasts caring for unique or non-traditional animals, often in retail or private settings. Exotic Animal Care Specialist involves professional care, often with veterinary or specialized training, working in zoos or sanctuaries. While both roles focus on exotic animals, the specialist role requires more advanced credentials and operates in more formal, conservation-oriented environments.

What cities are hiring for Exotic Pet jobs?

Cities with the most Exotic Pet job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Exotic Pet jobs?

The most popular types of Exotic Pet jobs are:

What states have the most Exotic Pet jobs?

States with the most job openings for Exotic Pet jobs include:

Infographic showing various Exotic Pet job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,688 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

$100 - $160/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 660 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

Associate Veterinarian – Avian & Exotic Focused

Avian and Exotic Pet Clinic of Roanoke
Location: Roanoke, VA (Relocation Required / Assistance Provided)
Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Overview:

Step into a highly rewarding, specialized role with an established bird and exotic animal hospital. The Avian and Exotic Pet Clinic of Roanoke is expanding to fulfill and handle the case load the SW Virginia area provides. We provide advanced medical and surgical care exclusively for companion small mammals, birds, reptiles, and local zoo species. We are seeking an enthusiastic clinician passionate about avian and exotic medicine who thrives on client education and high-quality diagnostics. Applicant must be experienced with soft tissue surgery (orthopedics surgery is a plus). We fully welcome both experienced exotic practitioners and post-graduation internship trained applicants.

Advanced In-House Technology:
  • Exotic Pet Dentistry
  • Full Digital Radiology
  • In-House Laboratory
  • Diagnostic Ultrasound
  • Rigid Endoscopy
  • Radiosurgery
  • Experienced Support Staff
What You Will Do:
  • Avian & Exotic Pet Medicine: Provide comprehensive medical and surgical care for birds, reptiles, amphibians, small mammals and more.
  • Zoo Partnerships: Assist with scheduled and on-call veterinary coverage for our regional zoo partners.
  • Client Education: Deliver high-touch, empathetic communication to passionate bird and exotic pet owners.
  • Shared Emergency Support: Participate in a limited, shared rotational schedule for after-hours inpatient care.
Compensation & Financial Incentives
  • Competitive Base Salary: Commensurate with experience level. (Including Benefit Package)
  • Dual Production Streams: High earning potential via traditional Pro-Sal with the option of after hour emergency coverage providing additional earnings.
  • Capital OR Debt Relief: Sign-On Bonus OR Relocation Assistance package OR Tuition Assistance Program available for full-time associates, in good standing after one year of employment at The Avian and Exotic Pet Clinic of Roanoke.
Premium Benefits Package
  • Financial Security: Simple IRA retirement plan with up to 3% company match.
  • Health & Wellness: Health and Dental insurance coverage plans.
  • Time Away: Paid Time Off (PTO) package.
  • Professional Growth: Dedicated Continuing Education (CE) allowance plus paid days off for conferences.
  • Credentials & Dues: 100% covered Professional Licenses, Liability Insurance, and professional organizational dues.
  • Perks: Personal Pet Veterinary Care Plan and a dedicated annual uniform/scrubs allowance.
Why Move to the Roanoke Valley?

Experience a spectacular quality of life in Southwestern Virginia. Enjoy breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountain scenery, endless outdoor recreation (hiking, mountain biking, camping, water sports), vibrant local culture, minimal daily traffic, and an exceptionally low cost of living.

Requirements

Current Virginia Veterinary License, Rabies Vaccination, DEA License

Founded in 2010 by Dr. Paul Stewart, Avian and Exotic Pet Clinic of Roanoke was established to provide the highest standard of veterinary care for unique pets throughout Southwest Virginia and beyond. Dr. Stewart brings over 29 years of veterinary experience, offering comprehensive medical, surgical, therapeutic, and preventative care for a wide variety of species. Our hospital specializes in the care of birds such as cockatiels, parrots, pigeons, and doves; small mammals including ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchill...

Details for Roanok, Virginia, United States are unavailable at this time.

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