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Local Animal Rescue Jobs in Fontana, CA (NOW HIRING)

Local Animal Rescue information

See Fontana, CA salary details

$10

$21

$28

How much do local animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for local animal rescue in Fontana, CA is $21.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $25.43 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 Fontana, CA? The most popular types of Animal Rescue jobs in Fontana, CA are:
What cities near Fontana, CA are hiring for Local Animal Rescue jobs? Cities near Fontana, CA with the most Local Animal Rescue job openings:
Temporary Animal Care Technician - Coachella Valley

Temporary Animal Care Technician - Coachella Valley

County of Riverside

Riverside, CA โ€ข On-site

$46K/yr

Temporary

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

For questions regarding this position, please contact the Recruiter listed in the Supplemental Information section. ABOUT THE POSITION The County of Riverside's Human Resources Temporary Assignment Program (TAP) is seeking a Temporary Animal Care Technician to support the Animal Services Department in the Coachella Valley. Under general supervision, this entry-level role performs daily tasks to maintain sanitary conditions at animal shelters and off-site events, feeds and cares for impounded animals, assists with adoptions and reunifications, and counsels the public on responsible pet ownership and animal retention.

Animal Care Technicians also receive training and certification in animal care, customer service, animal handling, humane euthanasia and animal disposal, and facility and equipment maintenance. This classification differs from the Animal Control and Licensing Officer series, which may assist in shelters but also performs fieldwork and enforces animal control regulations. Some duties may include: Maintain clean, sanitary conditions at the shelter and all off-site event locations.

Provide daily feeding, monitoring, and general care for all impounded animals. Support animal adoptions and assist with reunifying lost pets with their owners. Educate and counsel community members on responsible pet ownership and animal retention.

Perform routine maintenance of shelter facilities, grounds, and equipment. Meet the team: Meet the Team. The Riverside County Department of Animal Services has a vision for promoting an environment of responsible pet ownership through progressive animal welfare initiatives, community outreach, and humane education in a culture of compassion, creativity, and integrity.

The Department of Animal Services believes the character of their organization is best reflected in the strong dedication of each one of their employees who strive to meet the highest standards of performance and compassion on behalf of the animals and people that they serve. The Department of Animal Services operates four shelters located in Blythe, Jurupa Valley, San Jacinto and Thousand Palms. About TAP The Temporary Assignment Program (TAP) recruits and hires temporary employees for all County departments.

TAP assignments are a great way to learn about working for the County while working on a temporary, at-will basis. Click here to learn more about TAP:https://rc-hr.com/temporary-medical-assignment-program-tapmap TAP Benefits: https://rc-hr.com/files/users/user116/COR_2026_TAP_Guide_FINAL.pdf(Download PDF reader)(Download PDF reader) EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES Daily cleaning and disinfecting of kennels, equipment and work areas to prevent spread of zoonotic diseases. Feed and water animals daily

Assist with humane euthanasia and disposal of animals. Utilize computer to enter and update animal records in Chameleon Database. Daily review of animal inventory; may move animals as needed within the shelter.

Unload and impound incoming animals received from Animal Control and Licensing Officers and the public. Counsel owners who are relinquishing their pets by providing them information on adoptability of their animal or information regarding alternative options. Provide customer service to all shelter visitors and staff.

Educate the public on age, breed, characteristics, and care/treatment of shelter animals; may respond to inquiries from the public regarding retention and disposal of animals. May be specifically assigned and act as point of contact for rescue groups (i.e., adoption partners), coordinating the adoption of shelter animals and developing/maintaining relationships with adoption partners, and other related activities as assigned. May be required to assist in maintaining records and/or reports of inventories for food, supplies and equipment

Operate County vehicles to transport supplies, equipment or deceased/live animals; perform minor repair and maintenance of facilities and surrounding areas. May assist trained personnel in performing minor repairs and maintenance of facilities and surrounding areas. May assist with training new staff and/or volunteers.

Participate in adoption events on and off-site, in and outside of County jurisdiction. Understand and support department policies, local city and county municipal codes/ordinances, and state laws related to animal welfare. Receive, load and unload supplies, materials and equipment from vendor trucks; operate forklift to move pallets; inspect for damage and quantity received against requisitions, invoices or freight bills.

May be assigned to the care and treatment of equine, livestock and/or exotic animals. May assist in office by answering telephones, collecting fees and issuing receipts; may write incident reports. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education: Graduation from high school or attainment of a satisfactory score on a G.E.D

test. Experience: None required. Ability to: Read, understand and follow oral and written instructions in English; utilize computer to enter clear, concise and accurate information into Chameleon database; maintain records; perform basic mathematical calculations using addition and subtraction; work courteously and effectively to maintain effective working relationships with staff, rescue groups and the public; carry out routine and repetitive duties without immediate supervision; learn cleaning and disinfecting methods; learn care and feeding of animals; learn breeds and behaviors of animals; learn safe and proper handling of animals; learn, understand, interpret, and apply basic laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations governing the impounding, release and disposal of animals.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION License: Possession of a valid California Driver's License may be required. Physical Requirements: Lift, carry, push, and pull heavy objects that may weigh more than 50 pounds. A series of three Rabies vaccines is required prior to employment.

This recruitment is open to all applicants. This recruitment is open to all applicants. For questions regarding this requirement: Contact Carolina Pichardo at 951-955-3138 or at cpichardo@rivco.org

For General inquiries, please allow up to two business days to receive a response. Based on the number of applications received this posting may close early with or without notice. ________________________________________________________________________________________ APPLICATION INFORMATION Veteran's Preference The County has a Veterans Preference Policy applicable to new hires.

To qualify, attach the required documents to your job application. Documents include a copy of your (or your spouse's) Member-4 Form DD-214 indicating dates of service. For spousal preference, and as applicable, the following documents: a copy of your marriage certificate, spouse's death certificate, a letter of spouse's disability and/or letter of service-related death (if available) from the U.S

Veteran's Administration. For privacy reasons, it is recommended that you remove your social security information from the document(s). A Human Resources Representative will review the materials and determine if you qualify for veterans' preference.

For complete details and documentation requirements, please review the Veterans Preference Policy, C-3 here: https://rivcocob.org/board-policies Reasonable Accommodations The County of Riverside is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to applicants as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). Qualified individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or selection process should contact the recruiter for the position noted above. For additional information and/or to obtain the appropriate form for requesting a reasonable accommodation, please visit the Disability Access Office web page located at: https://rc-hr.com/disability Proof of Education If using education to qualify or when requested by the recruiter, upload a copy of any license(s), official/unofficial transcript(s), degrees, and/or related employment documents to your NeoGov account at the time of application and before the closing date

Official or unofficial transcripts will be accepted. If your education was completed outside of the United States, you will need to provide a copy of your Foreign Education Equivalency evaluation from a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE).

Work Authorization Requirement Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application. The County of Riverside does not participate in visa sponsorship programs, including H1-B visas, and will not provide sponsorship for any employment-based visas. Equal Opportunity Employer The County of Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

It is the policy of the County of Riverside to provide equal employment opportunities for all qualified persons. All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, medical condition (cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, or denial of medical and family care leave, or any other non-job-related factors. Pre-Employment All employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment requirements including a criminal background investigation, which involves fingerprinting.

(A felony or misdemeanor conviction may disqualify the applicant from County employment). A pre-employment physical examination and background check may be required. Probationary Period As an Approved Local Merit System, all County of Riverside employees, except those serving "At Will," are subject to the probationary period provisions as specified in the applicable Memorandum of Understanding, County Resolution, or Salary Ordinance.

Temporary and Per Diem employees serve at the pleasure of the agency/department head. General Information Current County of Riverside and/or current employees of the hiring department may receive priority consideration. Qualified candidates may be considered for future County vacancies.

Job postings may close without notice based on application volume. Submit your complete application by the recruitment close date; no late applications are accepted. Ensure all relevant experience/education is reflected on your application/resume, as a failure to demonstrate position requirements may disqualify applicants.

A description of job duties directly copied from the job classification or job posting will not be considered. Please read and follow any special application instructions on this posting. Click the 'Apply' link located on this page to submit your application.

For additional instructions on the application process, examinations, Veteran's preference, pre-employment accommodation or other employment questions, please refer to our web site, www.rc-hr.com. If you are experiencing technical problems, you may contact the governmentjobs.com applicant support desk Monday through Friday, 6 am to 5 pm Pacific Time at support@governmentjobs.com or toll-free 1-855-524-5627.