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Kennel Helper Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Kennel Helper information

See Delaware salary details

$6

$10

$15

How much do kennel helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for kennel helper in Delaware is $10.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $7.36 and $12.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a kennel helper and how can they be managed?

Kennel Helpers often encounter challenges such as managing multiple animals with different temperaments, maintaining strict hygiene standards, and handling physically demanding tasks like cleaning and lifting. Effective time management and strong attention to detail are essential to ensure all animals receive proper care and that facilities remain clean and safe. Building good communication with team members and supervisors can also help resolve issues quickly and maintain a positive work environment.

What is the difference between Kennel Helper vs Pet Care Assistant?

AspectKennel HelperPet Care Assistant
Required CredentialsNone typically required, on-the-job training commonSome roles may prefer basic pet care certifications
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, kennels, boarding facilitiesPet stores, veterinary clinics, grooming salons
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal care facilities, sheltersPet retail, veterinary practices
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level animal care rolesRelated to pet support and customer service

In summary, Kennel Helpers primarily work in shelters and kennels focusing on animal care and cleaning, often without formal certifications. Pet Care Assistants may work in pet stores or clinics, sometimes requiring basic pet care knowledge. Both roles involve hands-on animal handling but differ mainly in work environment and employer type.

What is a kennel helper?

Kennel helpers are support staff who assist in the daily care and maintenance of animals housed in kennels, shelters, or boarding facilities. Their responsibilities typically include feeding, exercising, cleaning cages, monitoring animal health, and providing basic grooming. Kennel helpers play a vital role in ensuring animals are comfortable, safe, and well-cared for while staying at the facility. They may also help with record-keeping and interacting with pet owners as needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kennel helper?

To thrive as a Kennel Helper, you need basic animal care knowledge, physical stamina, and attention to cleanliness, typically with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cleaning supplies, animal handling equipment, and sometimes pet management software is helpful. Compassion, reliability, and strong communication skills are important for building trust with both animals and pet owners. These skills and qualities ensure the well-being of animals, maintain a hygienic environment, and support smooth kennel operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Kennel jobs in Delaware? The most popular types of Kennel jobs in Delaware are:
What cities in Delaware are hiring for Kennel Helper jobs? Cities in Delaware with the most Kennel Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Kennel Helper job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $22,821 per year, or $11 per hour.

Training provided

$59K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

$5,000 SIGN-ON BONUS!

Become a Delaware Correctional Officer

Protect. Lead. Serve. Build a Career That Matters.

Are you ready for a career with purpose—not just a paycheck?

The Delaware Department of Correction is seeking motivated, dependable individuals who are ready to make a difference every day. As a Correctional Officer, you'll help maintain the safety and security of our facilities while positively influencing the lives of those in custody and protecting the communities we serve.

Whether you're just starting your career or looking for a profession with outstanding benefits, paid training, and unlimited advancement opportunities, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

Why Choose the Delaware Department of Correction?

  • Competitive Pay - Earn a competitive salary with opportunities for overtime and shift differentials.
  • $5,000 Sign-On Bonus* - Qualified new hires may be eligible for a $5,000 hiring incentive.
  • Paid Academy Training - No prior correctional experience? No problem. We'll provide the professional training and support you need to succeed.
  • Outstanding State Benefits - Enjoy an exceptional State of Delaware benefits package featuring comprehensive health insurance, a State pension, generous paid leave, tuition assistance, retirement savings options, employee wellness resources, and opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.

Essential Functions

  • Maintains control of inmates while escorting individuals or groups within the prison.
  • Keeps accurate head counts of inmates in the assigned security post.
  • Conducts periodic shakedowns of inmates and searches inmates, visitors, employees, cell blocks and/or other structures for such prohibited items as tools, weapons or other contraband.
  • Operates manual and electronic locking systems.
  • Enforces all rules, regulations and procedures affecting inmate discipline, security and safety.
  • Observes inmate activities to detect unusual or prohibited behavior which may be a threat to the security of the facility or the safety of the inmate, other inmates, employees or visitors.
  • Ensures inmates conform to proper standards of care as required for the living areas and personal hygiene.
  • Maintains the custody of inmates during transport to other institutions and in the community for court appearances or a variety of appointments.
  • Prepares and maintains a daily log and routine reports of activities and incidents on the assigned shift using an automated information system to enter, update, retrieve and report on data.
  • May be required to train and care for K-9 including feeding, grooming and kennel maintenance.
  • May enter institution as backup in riot control and shakedown activities. May participate in the pursuit of escapees.

Job Requirements

  1. At least 18 years of age.
  2. Possession of a High School Diploma or equivalent.
  3. Possession of a valid Driver’s License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).

Company Description

The Department is the second largest Executive branch agency in the State, and the largest law enforcement agency in the State with over 2,500 employees. The Department is comprised of the Office of the Commissioner, Bureau of Administrative Services, Bureau of Correctional Healthcare Services, Bureau of Prisons and Bureau of Community Corrections.