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Local Animal Rescue Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Animal Control Officer

Norco, CA ยท On-site

$51K - $64K/yr

... Rescue, Euthanasia, and Citation/Report Writing within two years of employment date. Knowledge: Applicable federal, state, and local animal control laws, rules, and regulations; City codes and ...

Dispatcher

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $24/hr

... Animal Rescue & Control services by managing incoming calls, coordinating service requests, and ... This role must be performed on-site and is represented by Union Local 856. Key Responsibilities

Dispatcher

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $24/hr

... Animal Rescue & Control services by managing incoming calls, coordinating service requests, and ... This role must be performed on-site and is represented by Union Local 856. Key Responsibilities

VAH is actively involved in local outreach and animal rescue initiatives, and we provide low-cost spay/neuter services through a local non-profit program. We are seeking a Full-Time or Part-Time ...

... and local laws, codes, and ordinances relating to the care and control of animals, filing of ... Performs capture and rescue of wild, stray, uncontrolled, diseased, and unlicensed domestic animals ...

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Local Animal Rescue information

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$27

How much do local animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for local animal rescue in California is $20.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the most common challenges faced by team members in a local animal rescue organization?

Team members in local animal rescue organizations often encounter challenges such as managing the emotional aspects of caring for neglected or abused animals, handling unpredictable situations during rescues, and balancing a high workload with limited resources. Collaboration with veterinarians, volunteers, and local authorities is crucial to ensure animal welfare and successful rehoming. Additionally, adapting to fast-changing priorities and maintaining effective communication within the team are key to providing the best possible care for animals in need.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Local Animal Rescue role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Local Animal Rescue role, you need a solid understanding of animal care, handling techniques, and basic veterinary knowledge, often supported by relevant training or certifications in animal welfare. Familiarity with animal shelter management software, animal first aid, and rescue equipment is typically required. Compassion, resilience, and strong communication skills help you work effectively with animals, the public, and fellow team members. These abilities are crucial for ensuring animal safety, facilitating successful adoptions, and maintaining positive community relations.

What is the difference between Local Animal Rescue vs Animal Shelter Worker?

AspectLocal Animal RescueAnimal Shelter Worker
CredentialsMay require animal care certifications, CPR, first aidOften requires similar certifications, experience in animal handling
Work EnvironmentVaries from outdoor rescues to shelter settings, often on-callPrimarily shelter facilities, consistent indoor environment
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, rescue groups, community organizationsMunicipal shelters, private shelters, animal welfare organizations
Search & Comparison IntentRescue operations, emergency response, volunteer opportunitiesShelter operations, daily animal care, adoption processes

Both roles involve caring for animals, but Local Animal Rescue focuses on emergency and outdoor rescues, while Animal Shelter Workers primarily handle daily shelter operations. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit based on environment and responsibilities.

What are local animal rescues?

Local animal rescues are organizations or groups dedicated to saving, rehabilitating, and rehoming stray, abandoned, or abused animals within a specific community or region. They often work with shelters, foster volunteers, and veterinarians to provide medical care, foster homes, and adoption services. Unlike large national organizations, local rescues focus on the needs of animals in their immediate area, helping to reduce overpopulation and improve animal welfare at the community level.

What qualifications do I need to be an animal welfare officer?

To become an animal welfare officer, candidates typically need a relevant qualification such as a diploma or degree in animal science, veterinary technology, or a related field. Experience with animal care, strong communication skills, and knowledge of animal laws and welfare standards are also important. Certifications in animal first aid or behavior can enhance employability.

How to get into animal rescue?

To get into animal rescue, you can volunteer at local shelters or rescue organizations to gain experience and understand the field. Many roles require compassion, basic animal care skills, and sometimes certifications like pet first aid. Building connections and demonstrating commitment can help you pursue a career or volunteer opportunities in animal rescue.

Can I volunteer with animals without experience?

Yes, many animal rescue organizations welcome volunteers without prior experience. Training and supervision are often provided, and volunteers may assist with tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and socializing animals, making it accessible for beginners. Basic knowledge of animal care and a compassionate attitude are helpful but not always required.

What do I need to work at an animal rescue?

To work at an animal rescue, you typically need a genuine passion for animals, good communication skills, and the ability to handle physically demanding tasks. Relevant experience with animals, basic first aid or pet care certifications, and a flexible schedule are often beneficial. Some positions may require background checks or volunteer experience before employment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Rescue jobs in California? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Local Animal Rescue jobs? Cities in California with the most Local Animal Rescue job openings:
Infographic showing various Local Animal Rescue job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,209 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Animal Control Officer

Animal Control Officer

City of Norco

Norco, CA โ€ข On-site

$51K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description DEFINITIION Under general supervision, patrols streets and provides animal control and animal protection services for the City of Norco. Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. This list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class.

TYPICAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: Responding and impounding stray animals; investigates reports of animal abuse, nuisances and related code enforcement issues and takes appropriate corrective action; explains ordinances to public; issues citations for violations of state and City animal control laws and ordinances; prepares and files citations in court; appears and testifies in court; maintains and updates records and files. Provides daily care for animals housed at the animal shelter, including feeding, monitoring health and behavior, and maintaining clean and safe kennel environments. Assists the public with animal adoptions, licensing, and responsible pet care education.

Performs humane euthanasia and proper disposition of animals in accordance with applicable laws, policies, and professional standards. Monitors rodeos, dog shows, and other animal-related special events to ensure compliance with animal welfare and public safety regulations. Conducts livestock inspections, participates in community outreach and educational events to promote animal adoptions and responsible pet ownership.

Performs other related duties as assigned. CLASS CHARACTERISTICS This is a general employee position in the Animal Services Division of the Community Operations Department. This position performs a variety of animal welfare duties CONTACTS AND RELATIONSHIP This position has the majority of its interaction with the public, veterinarians, volunteers, and other City employees.

Typical Qualifications QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES Experience: Two (2) years of experience working with domestic animals, wildlife, and livestock in an animal shelter, veterinary clinic, animal control agency, agricultural setting, or similar environment. Experience should include animal handling, care, and control; feeding and sanitation; safe restraint and transport; and responding to animal-related calls for service. Experience working directly with animals in a professional setting is required.

Possession of, or ability to obtain, training in the proper use of animal handling and control equipment is required, including catch poles, control poles, humane traps, transport cages and kennels, leashes, muzzles, bite gloves, snake tongs, nets, tranquilizer or capture equipment (where authorized), and defensive safety equipment such as batons. Experience involving public contact, enforcement of regulations, and the handling of domestic and wild animals is highly desirable. Education: High School Diploma or equivalent supplemented by coursework or training in animal science, veterinary assisting, law enforcement, or a related field.

Must attend training in Animal Control, Advance Animal Control Investigation, Certified Animal Control Officer Training (CACO), First Aid, CPR, Large Animal Rescue, Euthanasia, and Citation/Report Writing within two years of employment date. Knowledge: Applicable federal, state, and local animal control laws, rules, and regulations; City codes and ordinances related to animal services and public safety. Principles and practices of domestic and wild animal behavior, control, capture, and humane handling techniques.

Methods and techniques for effective public relations, community outreach, education, and training. Basic investigative procedures, report writing, and enforcement practices related to animal control operations. Ability: Enforce animal control laws, regulations, and City ordinances with professionalism and sound judgment; safely and humanely capture, handle, and transport domestic and wild animals; assess animal behavior and respond appropriately in routine and emergency situations; communicate effectively with the public, including in stressful or sensitive situations; prepare clear and accurate reports and maintain records; work independently in the field while exercising discretion and decision-making; and establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with staff, law enforcement, and the community.

Certification Required: PC 832 Certification License Required: Valid California Driver's License, Supplemental Information EMERGENCY SERVICES: All City employees are required to perform assigned Emergency Service duties in the event of an emergency or disaster. Employees must complete the required FEMA courses within six months of employment. SELECTION PROCESS: Only those candidates who have the best combination of qualifications in relation to the requirements and duties of the position will continue in the selection process.

Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an invitation to participate in the process. Final appointments may be subject to a selection interview with the Department Director or designee and the remaining conditional steps in the hiring process. This position requires a conditional employment offer based on the successful completion of a drug and alcohol screening.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: The City of Norco is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability (mental and physical), sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), sex orientation, gender identity, gender expression, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, or military and veteran status. The City is committed to making its programs, services and activities accessible to individuals with disabilities. If you require accommodation to participate in this recruitment, please contact Human Resources prior to the filing deadline.

We will attempt to reasonably accommodate applicants with disabilities upon request. BACKGROUND CHECK: All employment offers are conditional based on the successful completion of a background investigation, physical and drug and alcohol screening at city expense and conducted by a physician designated by the city. All information on the application is subject to investigation and verification.

Reference checks will be conducted by the City to include at least the following: (1) verification/reference from current and past employers, (2) fingerprinting and Department of Justice criminal background check, and (3) confirmation of necessary licenses, certificates, and/or diploma/degrees. Employees are enrolled in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) government Employer Pull Notice Program. DRUG SCREENING: In accordance with the City's drug free workplace policy, all employment offers are conditional and based on successful completion of drug test.

Class A drivers are enrolled in the Department of Transportation (DOT) random drug testing program. E-VERIFY: The City of Norco is an E-Verify employer. E-Verify is an internet-based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA) that allows participating employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of newly hired employees in the United States.

The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute a contract expressed or implied, and any provisions contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice.