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Pet Care Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Companion Pet Lodge LLC

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Pet Care Associate

Waterford Township, MI

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

A Pet Care Associate is responsible for the supervision, control and management of dogs and ensuring the safety of playgroups. Additionally, the PCA is responsible for the maintenance and cleaning ...

Companion Pet Lodge LLC

Be Seen First

Pet Care Associate

Waterford Township, MI

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

A Pet Care Associate is responsible for the supervision, control and management of dogs and ensuring the safety of playgroups. Additionally, the PCA is responsible for the maintenance and cleaning ...

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Pet Care Associate information

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$9

$19

$31

How much do pet care associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for pet care associate in the United States is $19.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Pet Care Associates, and how can they be addressed?

Pet Care Associates often face challenges such as managing multiple animal care tasks simultaneously, handling pets with varying temperaments, and ensuring strict adherence to hygiene and safety protocols. To address these, it's important to stay organized, communicate effectively with team members, and continuously update your knowledge on animal behavior and welfare. Most employers provide on-the-job training, and collaborating closely with experienced staff can help you learn best practices for handling difficult situations and providing the best care for pets.

What are Pet Care Associates?

Pet Care Associates are professionals responsible for the daily care, feeding, and well-being of animals in settings like pet stores, animal shelters, or veterinary clinics. Their duties typically include cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, assisting with basic grooming, and providing enrichment to ensure animals are happy and healthy. Pet Care Associates also interact with customers, offering advice on pet care and helping with adoptions or sales. This role requires a genuine love for animals, strong observation skills, and the ability to follow safety and hygiene protocols.

What is the highest paying job in animal care?

The highest paying jobs in animal care typically include specialized roles such as veterinary surgeons, zoo veterinarians, and research veterinarians, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions usually require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive experience, and may involve working in clinical, research, or conservation settings.

What is the difference between Pet Care Associate vs Pet Groomer?

AspectPet Care AssociatePet Groomer
CredentialsNone required or basic pet care certificationsGrooming certifications or licenses often preferred
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, pet stores, veterinary clinicsGrooming salons, pet spas, veterinary clinics
Job FocusFeeding, walking, basic health careBathing, trimming, styling
Employer & Industry UsagePet retail, shelters, clinicsGrooming salons, pet spas

Pet Care Associates primarily handle daily pet care tasks like feeding and walking, often in shelters or pet stores. Pet Groomers focus on grooming services such as bathing and trimming, usually in grooming salons. While both roles involve working with animals, their skills, certifications, and work environments differ significantly.

What does a pet care worker do?

A pet care worker, also known as a pet care associate, is responsible for feeding, grooming, exercising, and providing companionship to animals. They may also monitor pet health, clean cages or living areas, and follow specific care instructions, often working in pet shelters, kennels, or veterinary clinics. Basic knowledge of animal behavior and handling skills are important for this role.

How hard is it to get hired at PetSmart?

Getting hired as a Pet Care Associate at PetSmart typically involves submitting an application online or in-store, followed by an interview process. Prior customer service or animal care experience can improve chances, but the hiring process is generally straightforward and based on availability and store needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pet Care Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pet Care Associate, you need a basic understanding of animal care, handling techniques, and relevant safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and animal care equipment is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and compassion for animals help associates connect with pet owners and provide attentive care. These skills ensure the safety and well-being of animals, deliver excellent customer service, and maintain efficient store operations.

What is a pet care associate?

A pet care associate is a professional responsible for caring for animals in settings such as pet stores, kennels, or veterinary clinics. Their duties often include feeding, grooming, exercising, and monitoring animals' health, requiring good animal handling skills and sometimes certification in pet first aid. They typically work part-time or full-time schedules and must follow safety and hygiene protocols.
What cities are hiring for Pet Care Associate jobs? Cities with the most Pet Care Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pet Care jobs? The most popular types of Pet Care jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Pet Care Associate jobs? The top employers for Pet Care Associate jobs are:
What states have the most Pet Care Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Pet Care Associate jobs include:
Pet Care Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pet Care Associate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,549 per year, or $19 per hour.

Pet Care Associate - Fishers

Uncle Bill's Pet Centers

Fishers, IN • On-site

$9 - $12/hr

Other

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

About the Role:
We are seeking a highly motivated and responsible individual to join our team as a Pet Care Associate. As a Pet Care Associate, you will be responsible for providing exceptional care to our furry friends and ensuring their safety and well-being. You will be expected to maintain a clean and organized environment, as well as assist customers with their pet care needs. Your attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced environment will be crucial to your success in this role.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Experience working with animals, preferably in a pet care setting
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods of time
  • Excellent communication and customer service skills
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Certification in pet care or related field
  • Experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, and small animals
  • Knowledge of pet nutrition and health
  • Experience with inventory management and ordering supplies

Responsibilities:
  • Provide exceptional care to pets, including feeding, grooming, and exercise
  • Maintain a clean and organized environment for pets and customers
  • Assist customers with their pet care needs, including answering questions and providing recommendations
  • Monitor pets for any signs of illness or injury and report any concerns to management
  • Adhere to all company policies and procedures regarding pet care and safety

Skills:
As a Pet Care Associate, you will utilize your excellent communication and customer service skills to provide exceptional care to our furry friends and assist customers with their pet care needs. Your attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced environment will be crucial to maintaining a clean and organized environment for pets and customers. Additionally, your experience working with animals and knowledge of pet care will allow you to monitor pets for any signs of illness or injury and report any concerns to management. Finally, your ability to work a flexible schedule and lift up to 50 pounds will ensure your success in this role.

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