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Stray Rescue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SPCA

Lead Veterinarian

Briarcliff Manor, NY · On-site

The position serves as a key member of the Clinic and Rescue Center team and will foster a culture ... Provide outstanding veterinary care to owned, homeless, stray and TNR pets including surgeries ...

ASPCA

$20 - $25/hr

... logistics, technical rescue and more. The role of the Professional Responder - Animal Care ... Provides safe and humane capture and containment of stray, abandoned, unattended, diseased, or ...

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coctx

Animal Services Officer

Carrollton, TX · On-site

Apprehends and impounds pet and stray animals in violation of animal control ordinances. * Issues ... Works with the general public and rescue/humane organizations to re-home animals from the shelter ...

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All JobsStray Rescue Jobs

Stray Rescue information

See salary details

$28.5K

$47.9K

$70.5K

How much do stray rescue jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for stray rescue in the United States is $47,913.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $54,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do animal shelter workers make an hour near me?

Animal shelter workers, including roles at organizations like Stray Rescue, typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and responsibilities. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while experienced staff or specialized roles can earn higher wages. Compensation can also include benefits such as paid time off and training opportunities.

What are some of the main challenges faced by professionals working in stray animal rescue organizations?

Professionals in stray animal rescue organizations often encounter challenges such as handling animals with unknown medical or behavioral histories, managing emotionally charged situations, and working with limited resources. Team members must balance time between field rescues, animal care, and administrative tasks, which can make workload management complex. Collaboration with veterinarians, volunteers, and the local community is essential, and strong communication skills are vital for coordinating successful rescues and adoptions.

What is the highest paying job in animal welfare?

In animal welfare, the highest paying roles are often executive positions such as Director or Chief Executive Officer, which can earn six-figure salaries. These roles typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and a background in nonprofit management or veterinary sciences.

How do I become an animal rescuer?

To become an animal rescuer, you typically need to gain experience with animals through volunteering or working at shelters, and develop skills in handling and caring for animals. Some organizations may require training, certifications in animal first aid, or background checks. Volunteering or working with local rescue groups can provide practical experience and help you understand the responsibilities involved.

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

AspectStray RescueAnimal Shelter Worker
CertificationsNone required, but certifications in animal care or rescue are a plusOften requires animal care certifications or training
Work EnvironmentField rescue operations, outdoor settings, community outreachIndoor shelter facilities, administrative tasks, animal care
Employer & IndustryNonprofit rescue organizations, animal welfare groupsAnimal shelters, humane societies, municipal facilities
Work FocusRescuing stray and injured animals, community educationAnimal intake, care, adoption processes, shelter management

While both roles focus on animal welfare, Stray Rescue primarily involves outdoor rescue operations and community outreach, whereas Animal Shelter Workers typically work indoors managing shelter operations and animal care. Both roles require a passion for animals, but their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

What is a Stray Rescue worker?

A Stray Rescue worker is someone who specializes in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming stray and abandoned animals, primarily dogs and cats. These workers often respond to reports of stray animals, provide them with food, shelter, and medical care, and work to find them permanent, loving homes. Stray Rescue workers may also engage in community outreach, education, and advocacy to promote responsible pet ownership and reduce the number of homeless animals.

How much do search and rescue pay?

Search and rescue personnel typically earn between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the organization. Pay may include additional benefits such as hazard pay, overtime, and specialized training opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Rescue Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Rescue Worker, you need knowledge of animal care, handling, and first aid, often supported by relevant certifications or experience in animal welfare. Familiarity with animal restraint equipment, shelter management systems, and sometimes basic veterinary tools is important. Compassion, resilience, and strong communication skills help build trust with animals and coordinate effectively with team members and the public. These abilities ensure rescued animals receive proper care and increase successful rehabilitation and adoption outcomes.
More about Stray Rescue jobs
What cities are hiring for Stray Rescue jobs? Cities with the most Stray Rescue job openings:
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Stray Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stray Rescue job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,913 per year, or $23 per hour.
Animal Control & Wildlife Services Officer

Animal Control & Wildlife Services Officer

LTD Global

San Mateo, CA • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

About the Organization
A private, nonprofit animal welfare organization dedicated to promoting compassion and respect for all living creatures. Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, it provides a wide range of services, including animal adoption, wildlife rescue, veterinary care, humane education, and enforcement of animal-related laws. The organization operates as a safe place for stray, injured, and neglected animals, striving to reunite pets with their owners or find them loving homes.
Working closely with local municipalities, public safety agencies, and community partners, the organization plays a vital role in supporting public health, safety, and animal welfare. It is committed to community outreach, education, and advocacy, ensuring the well-being of animals while fostering a humane and responsible community.
Position Overview
Foster a humane attitude toward animal care and treatment through education and leading by example. Serve as a frontline responder to animal-related concerns within the community, providing guidance and addressing public inquiries related to animal welfare, state and local regulations, rabies quarantine protocols, and other concerns.
This role is well-suited for individuals with experience in municipal services, animal control, park services, wildlife management, or other public-facing field operations.
Responsibilities:
  • Respond to and address stray, sick, injured, or aggressive domestic animals and wildlife in the field.
  • Transport animals to appropriate facilities or perform humane field euthanasia when necessary.
  • Perform technical animal rescues and enforce local/state animal laws, including dangerous animal complaints and citations.
  • Investigate animal incidents, prepare and execute warrants, and collaborate with law enforcement and legal authorities.
  • Write detailed reports, handle evidence, and maintain accurate records in compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Assist with veterinary exams, rabies quarantine cases, and deceased animal removal.
  • Educate the public on animal welfare issues, local ordinances, and responsible animal care; support emergency response efforts when required.
  • Maintain professional communication via radio systems and ensure vehicles and equipment are clean, stocked, and field-ready.
  • Participate in community outreach, public education, and partnership events.
  • Provide humane care for all animals and collaborate with internal teams and external agencies as needed.

Qualifications:
  • High School diploma (or equivalent) with previous customer service or public-facing experience.
  • Prior experience (volunteering and/or professionally) working with animals is highly desirable. Experience in municipal, county, park services, wildlife agencies, or other public sector field roles is strongly valued.
  • Ability to perform all essential job duties satisfactorily.
  • Knowledge, skills, and abilities to meet job requirements (reasonable accommodation provided for individuals with disabilities).
  • Capability to manage the emotional aspects of end-of-life services and humane euthanasia.
  • Ability to support staff and the public during high-emotion situations.
  • Flexible schedule with availability for irregular hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, and standby as needed.
  • Successfully pass a criminal background check upon hire.
  • Strong motivation toward animal welfare and humane treatment.
  • Ability to work independently in field-based environments with minimal supervision.
  • Maintain professionalism and perform effectively under pressure in dynamic, public-facing situations.

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