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Wildlife Animal Rescue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Second Chance Wildlife Center

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Wildlife Rehabilitation Technician

Clarksburg, MD · On-site

$21/hr

Second Chance Wildlife Center, a 501(c)3 Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and Veterinary Hospital in ... animal rescue emergencies, telephone inquiries about these positions will not be accepted. We look ...

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Second Chance Wildlife Center

Be Seen First

Wildlife Rehabilitation Technician

Clarksburg, MD

$21/hr

Second Chance Wildlife Center, a 501(c)3 Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and Veterinary Hospital in ... animal rescue emergencies, telephone inquiries about these positions will not be accepted. We look ...

New

City of University Park

Animal Control Officer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$41K - $61K/yr

... rescue, and educating the community on animal care and compliance. The ideal candidate will be comfortable handling, with proper equipment, domesticated animals and urban wildlife. Duties Essential ...

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Wildlife Animal Rescue information

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$16

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$31

How much do wildlife animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for wildlife animal rescue in the United States is $21.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by wildlife animal rescue workers in the field?

Wildlife animal rescue workers often encounter challenges such as working in unpredictable outdoor environments, handling animals that may be stressed or injured, and responding to emergencies at irregular hours. Teamwork is crucial, as rescues may require collaboration with veterinarians, law enforcement, and other wildlife professionals. Additionally, there can be emotional challenges when dealing with animals that cannot be saved, making resilience and self-care important for long-term success in this field.

How hard is it to get a job as a wildlife animal rescue?

Getting a job as a wildlife animal rescue worker can be competitive and often requires relevant experience, such as volunteering or internships, along with knowledge of animal care and local wildlife laws. Certification in wildlife rehabilitation and a passion for conservation can improve job prospects, but entry-level positions may be available for those willing to gain experience and training.

What do I need to work at a wildlife animal rescue?

To work at a wildlife animal rescue, you typically need a passion for animal welfare, relevant experience or education in wildlife biology, ecology, or veterinary care, and often a valid driver's license. Some positions may require certifications such as first aid, animal handling, or wildlife rehabilitation permits, depending on the role and location.

What is wildlife animal rescue?

Wildlife animal rescue involves responding to situations where wild animals are injured, orphaned, sick, or in danger. Rescuers assess the animal’s condition, provide immediate care, and often transport the animal to a licensed wildlife rehabilitation center. The goal is to rehabilitate the animal so it can be safely returned to its natural habitat. Wildlife animal rescue also includes educating the public about coexisting with wildlife and preventing future harm.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wildlife animal rescue professional?

To thrive as a Wildlife Animal Rescue professional, you need expertise in animal behavior, wildlife biology, and rescue procedures, often supported by a degree in biology, zoology, or a related field. Familiarity with animal handling equipment, rescue transport systems, and relevant certifications such as wildlife rehabilitation licenses are typically required. Compassion, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help professionals manage stressful situations and educate the public. These skills ensure the effective rescue, care, and release of wildlife while promoting public awareness and safety.

What is the difference between Wildlife Animal Rescue vs Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist?

AspectWildlife Animal RescueWildlife Rehabilitation Specialist
Required CredentialsOften includes permits, basic animal care knowledgeRequires permits, specialized training, certifications in animal care
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, rescue sites, outdoor environmentsRehabilitation centers, clinics, indoor facilities
Employer & Industry UsageWildlife rescue organizations, conservation groupsWildlife rehab centers, veterinary clinics, NGOs
Search & Comparison IntentPeople seeking rescue opportunities or info on rescuing wildlifeIndividuals interested in animal care, rehab processes

Wildlife Animal Rescue focuses on the initial rescue and removal of injured or stranded wildlife from the field, often involving fieldwork and emergency response. Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialists typically work in controlled environments, providing ongoing care and treatment to injured animals. Both roles require permits and a passion for wildlife, but they differ mainly in work setting and specific responsibilities.

How to become a wildlife animal rescue worker?

To become a wildlife animal rescue worker, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience or training in animal care, wildlife biology, or conservation. Volunteering with local rescue organizations and obtaining certifications such as First Aid or wildlife handling can improve job prospects; some positions may require a degree in a related field or specialized training. Strong communication skills, physical fitness, and a passion for animal welfare are also important.
More about Wildlife Animal Rescue jobs

What cities are hiring for Wildlife Animal Rescue jobs?

Cities with the most Wildlife Animal Rescue job openings:

What states have the most Wildlife Animal Rescue jobs?

States with the most job openings for Wildlife Animal Rescue jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Wildlife Animal Rescue jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Wildlife Animal Rescue jobs are:

Wildlife Animal Rescue jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wildlife Animal Rescue job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,859 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Shelter Veterinarian

HUMANE ANIMAL RESCUE OF PITTSBURGH

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Humane Animal Rescue Of Pittsburgh rating

4.2

Company rating: 4.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

748th of 772 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Description

Make a Difference Every Day

Are you ready to combine your passion for animals with high-quality medicine and community impact? Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh (HARP), one of Pennsylvania's largest and most progressive animal welfare organizations, is seeking a dedicated Veterinarian to join our mission-driven team.


This is more than just a job-it's an opportunity to practice progressive shelter medicine, provide compassionate clinical care, and transform lives for pets, wildlife, and the people who love them.


Why You'll Love Working Here

  • Mission-Driven Work: Help animals in need while supporting pet owners, underserved communities, and wildlife.
  • Diverse Caseload: Shelter medicine, public clinic services, humane investigation cases, high-quality/high-volume spay-neuter, and wildlife care.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Digital radiography, in-house lab, modern surgical suites, and low-stress animal housing. We utilize ShelterLuv for shelter software and Shepherd for clinic.
  • Professional Growth: CE opportunities, veterinary student mentorship, and a supportive, collaborative team.
  • Competitive Pay & Benefits: Superior salary, medical benefits (including health, dental, and vision), 401(k), employee assistance program (EAP), CE PTO and allowance, vacation PTO, dues and license fees coverage.

The Work You'll Do

  • Provide medical and surgical care for shelter animals, public clinic patients, and wildlife as needed.
  • Perform spay/neuter surgeries (including pediatric and HQHVSN procedures), dentistry, and diagnostics.
  • Develop and implement treatment protocols that meet high medical and ethical standards.
  • Mentor veterinary staff, students, and volunteers.
  • Participate in community programs, mobile unit clinics, and outreach events.
  • Collaborate with animal welfare partners to improve care and outcomes.


Compensation & Tiered Advancement

At HARP, your growth is our priority. In addition to competitive base pay, generous benefits, and PTO, our veterinarians participate in an internal tiered compensation system. This program rewards measurable achievements such as:

  • Surgical proficiency and efficiency
  • Quality of patient care and outcomes
  • Participation in community outreach
  • Continuing education and skill advancement

As you meet these milestones, you progress through compensation tiers-ensuring your dedication and excellence are recognized and rewarded.


About Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh

HARP operates:

  • Two large open-door shelters with full-service Veterinary Medical Centers
  • A Wildlife Rehabilitation Center run by licensed specialists
  • A mobile veterinary unit bringing care directly to underserved communities

We serve thousands of animals every year while building a more compassionate future for our city's pets and wildlife.


Join Us

If you're ready to bring your skills, compassion, and commitment to a team that values both people and pets, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and start your next chapter with Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh.

Requirements

Your Qualifications

  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) degree.
  • Licensed (or able to be licensed) to practice in Pennsylvania.
  • USDA APHIS accreditation (or willingness to obtain).
  • DEA license (or willingness to apply).
  • Experience or strong interest in shelter medicine and HQHVSN surgery.
  • Commitment to HARP's mission and values.

What Humane Animal Rescue Of Pittsburgh employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

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