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Kennel Helper Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Kennel Technician

Salem, OR ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

As a Kennel Technician, you will play a crucial role in the well-being of animals. Your ... animals reside to help ensure their environment is properly maintained and sanitized. Key ...

Kennel Helper information

See Oregon salary details

$7

$12

$17

How much do kennel helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for kennel helper in Oregon is $12.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.12 and $14.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Kennel jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Kennel jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Kennel Helper jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Kennel Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Kennel Helper job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $25,255 per year, or $12.1 per hour.

Kennel Attendant (Hospital Aide)

Tualatin, OR โ€ข On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

The Emergency Veterinary Clinic of Tualatin is looking for a Kennel Attendant to join our team! EVCOT is well-known and highly respected in the veterinary community for our 20+ years of service from the Portland area all the way to the Oregon coast.
We are a privately owned clinic with an amazing staff. Due to the nature of our work, every shift is a different experience and the caseload offers a great variety. Patient care is our top priority.
Essential Skill Set:

  • Reliable.
  • Professional.
  • Self-motivated.
  • Attentive to detail.
  • Well-organized.
  • Being able to work as a team member and independently.
  • Handle stressful situations with poise.
  • Ability to demonstrate a can-do attitude is a must.

Work Schedule:

  • We are currently offering a full-time shift for a kennel attendant.
  • Some experience in veterinary medicine required (ER experience a plus).

Shifts:

Sunday- Wednesday 8am-6pm

Wedneday-Saturday 8am-6pm

Thursday- Saturday 1p-1a

Duties:

  • Some of the kennel duties include cleaning, stocking, and helping staff with patient care.

Benefits:

  • Benefits: 100% employer paid Medical, dental, vision, Life insurance, Short term/Long term disability. We also have 401K match, Uniform allowance, Pet benefits, AFLAC, PTO, and more.
  • Pay is based on experience: $18-$23
  • Shift differential 10pm-6am an additional $3/hr. Weekend overnight shift differential is $6/hr.

Shift Wednesday through Saturday 9pm-7am

We look forward to meeting you!