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Humane Society Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Animal Care Specialists work closely with shelter leadership, veterinary partners, volunteers, fosters, and the public to support the mission of Sequoia Humane Society and help animals successfully ...

Animal Care

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Animal Care and Experience Specialist The Arizona Humane Society is looking for dedicated and motivated full time Animal Care & Experience Specialists to join our shelter team to provide industry ...

Pet Resource Specialist

Wailuku, HI · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Maui Humane Society is an open-admissions animal shelter for cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, turtles, and other animals. We provide veterinary and routine care and help surrendered animals find a ...

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Humane Society information

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How much do humane society jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for humane society in the United States is $20.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the Humane Society?

The Humane Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting animal welfare and preventing cruelty to animals. It operates animal shelters, provides rescue and adoption services, advocates for stronger animal protection laws, and educates the public about responsible pet ownership. Humane Societies may also offer spay/neuter programs, veterinary care, and disaster response for animals in need. Their goal is to ensure the well-being and humane treatment of all animals.

What challenges do Humane Society workers face and how can they manage them?

Employees at a Humane Society often encounter emotionally challenging situations, such as caring for neglected or abused animals and interacting with distressed pet owners. Managing compassion fatigue while maintaining a high standard of animal care can be demanding. Building strong teamwork, accessing support resources, and practicing self-care are essential strategies for coping with these challenges. Many organizations offer training and counseling to help staff develop resilience and maintain a positive work environment.

What is the difference between Humane Society vs Animal Shelter Worker?

AspectHumane SocietyAnimal Shelter Worker
CredentialsMay require animal care certifications, background checksHigh school diploma, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organization, community outreach, administrative tasksAnimal care facilities, hands-on animal handling
Employer & IndustryNonprofits focused on animal welfareMunicipal or private shelters

Humane Society organizations often focus on broader animal welfare initiatives, advocacy, and community education, while Animal Shelter Workers primarily handle daily care and intake of animals in shelters. Both roles involve caring for animals, but the Humane Society may also engage in outreach and policy work, whereas Shelter Workers focus on direct animal care and shelter operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to work at the Humane Society?

To thrive as a Humane Society worker, you need a background in animal care, knowledge of animal welfare laws, and often a relevant degree or certification in veterinary technology, animal science, or a related field. Familiarity with shelter management software, basic medical equipment for animals, and animal handling tools is typically required. Compassion, strong communication, and problem-solving skills are vital for interacting with animals, colleagues, and the public. These abilities ensure the well-being of the animals, effective community outreach, and smooth shelter operations.
More about Humane Society jobs
What cities are hiring for Humane Society jobs? Cities with the most Humane Society job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Humane Society jobs? The most popular types of Humane Society jobs are:
What states have the most Humane Society jobs? States with the most job openings for Humane Society jobs include:
Infographic showing various Humane Society job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,997 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Animal Care Specialist

Sequoia Humane Society

Eureka, CA

$16.90 - $18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Animal Care Specialist

Reports To: Lead Animal Care and Health Technician

Position Summary

The Animal Care Specialist is responsible for providing compassionate daily care to shelter animals while maintaining a safe, clean, and sanitary environment for animals, staff, volunteers, and visitors. This position supports animal health and welfare through proper husbandry, cleaning, enrichment, observation, recordkeeping, and customer service.

Animal Care Specialists work closely with shelter leadership, veterinary partners, volunteers, fosters, and the public to support the mission of Sequoia Humane Society and help animals successfully transition to their next homes.

Primary ResponsibilitiesAnimal Care

• Provide daily care, feeding, watering, and enrichment for shelter animals.
• Monitor animals for signs of illness, injury, stress, or unusual behavior and report concerns promptly.
• Ensure animals receive appropriate housing, sanitation, exercise, and enrichment.
• Safely and humanely handle animals of varying sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions.
• Assist with animal intake, movement, transfers, adoptions, and foster placements as directed.
• Support behavioral training and positive reinforcement handling practices.

Cleaning and Sanitation

• Clean and disinfect kennels, cages, runs, equipment, dishes, litter boxes, and other shelter areas.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and disease prevention throughout the facility.
• Sort, wash, and organize animal bedding, towels, and laundry.
• Assist with inventory organization and supply stocking.
• Follow all workplace safety procedures and immediately report safety hazards, injuries, animal bites, equipment concerns, or workplace incidents to a supervisor.

Recordkeeping and Compliance

• Maintain accurate animal records and daily care documentation.
• Follow shelter policies, safety procedures, and animal welfare protocols.
• Assist with tracking medications, treatments, and animal care instructions as directed.

Customer Service and Community Support

• Assist adopters, fosters, volunteers, and visitors in a professional and welcoming manner.
• Provide basic information regarding shelter services, adoption procedures, foster opportunities, and lost animal inquiries.
• Support adoption events, community outreach activities, and public engagement efforts.

Facility Support

• Assist with routine facility maintenance and grounds upkeep.
• Help maintain a safe, organized, and professional shelter environment.
• Report maintenance, safety, or operational concerns to supervisors.

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated compassion for animals and commitment to animal welfare.
• Experience working with dogs, cats, and other companion animals preferred.
• Ability to safely handle animals of varying sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions.
• Strong work ethic and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and maintain accurate records.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Valid California driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds or more.
• Ability to work in a physically demanding environment with exposure to cleaning chemicals, animal noise, odors, and varying weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in an animal shelter, veterinary clinic, rescue organization, boarding facility, kennel, or related animal care setting.
• Knowledge of animal behavior, enrichment, and low-stress handling techniques.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of animal care, sanitation, disease prevention, and animal welfare practices.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain professionalism under pressure.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, fosters, veterinary partners, and the public.
• Ability to comply with all workplace safety policies, OSHA requirements, and Sequoia Humane Society safety procedures.
• Ability to safely use cleaning chemicals, disinfectants, equipment, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment for animals, staff, volunteers, and visitors.
• Commitment to the mission, values, and long-term success of Sequoia Humane Society.

Schedule and Working Conditions

Daily reporting hours and days of work vary according to the shelter's operating schedule. This position requires weekend, evening, and holiday work as needed.

This position is non-exempt and eligible for overtime in accordance with applicable federal and California labor laws.

Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $16.90 - $18.00 per hour depending on skills and experience
Education

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent combination of education and experience required.

Sequoia Humane Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Qualified applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.