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Kennel Manager Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Kennel Attendant

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$13 - $16.75/hr

We are seeking a Kennel Assistant to join our amazing team! The ideal candidate is dependable ... Management reserves the right to revise the or require that other tasks be performed when the ...

Kennel Manager information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$18

$29

How much do kennel manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for kennel manager in Riverside, CA is $18.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $20.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a kennel manager?

To thrive as a Kennel Manager, you need a solid background in animal care, facility management, and supervisory experience, often supported by a degree or certification in animal science or a related field. Familiarity with animal management software, basic veterinary equipment, and sanitation protocols is typically required. Strong organizational skills, leadership, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing staff and ensuring animal welfare. These competencies are crucial for maintaining a safe, efficient, and compassionate environment for both animals and employees.

What is a kennel manager?

A kennel manager works in a boarding facility for pets that need a place to stay while their owners are temporarily unable to care for them due to travel or other reasons. As a kennel manager, you supervise the day-to-day operations of the boarding facility, which includes overseeing dog training, maintaining supplies and inventory, scheduling activities, and directing staff. Additional responsibilities may involve feeding, medicating, or exercising animals, assisting with medical procedures if the kennel is in a veterinary facility, or cleaning cages.

What are common challenges faced by kennel managers when supervising staff and ensuring animal welfare?

Kennel Managers often encounter challenges balancing staff scheduling, training new team members, and maintaining high standards of animal care. Ensuring all employees follow proper cleaning, feeding, and safety protocols can be demanding, especially during busy seasons or staff shortages. Additionally, Kennel Managers must address behavioral or health issues with animals, requiring strong communication skills and adaptability. Successful managers create a supportive team environment and prioritize ongoing staff education to overcome these challenges.

What is the difference between Kennel Manager vs Kennel Technician?

AspectKennel ManagerKennel Technician
CertificationsAnimal care certifications, management trainingAnimal care certifications, pet first aid
Work EnvironmentSupervisory role, overseeing staff and operationsHands-on animal care, cleaning, feeding
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal shelters, kennels, pet boarding facilitiesAnimal shelters, veterinary clinics, kennels
Common Search & ComparisonManagement responsibilities, staff oversightAnimal handling, daily care tasks

The main difference between a Kennel Manager and a Kennel Technician lies in their responsibilities. The Kennel Manager oversees operations, staff, and ensures the facility runs smoothly, often requiring management certifications. The Kennel Technician focuses on direct animal care, feeding, cleaning, and assisting veterinarians or staff. Both roles are essential in animal care facilities, but they differ in scope and level of responsibility.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kennel jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Kennel jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Kennel Manager jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Kennel Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Kennel Manager job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,341 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

$13 - $16.75/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 656 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

We are seeking a Kennel Assistant to join our amazing team! The ideal candidate is dependable, energetic, and compassionate, with a strong work ethic and a passion for working with animals. Previous experience in patient handling or the veterinary industry is highly preferred.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, loves animals, and wants to be part of a tight-knit team that values positivity, respect, and excellence in care.
If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.
Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!
The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development).
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com.

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