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Wildlife Animal Rescue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LTD Global

Animal Dispatcher

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Through sheltering, veterinary services, wildlife rehabilitation, and community outreach, the ... Animal Rescue & Control services by managing incoming calls, coordinating service requests, and ...

LTD Global

Animal Dispatcher

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Through sheltering, veterinary services, wildlife rehabilitation, and community outreach, the ... Animal Rescue & Control services by managing incoming calls, coordinating service requests, and ...

LTD Global

Animal Dispatcher

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Through sheltering, veterinary services, wildlife rehabilitation, and community outreach, the ... Animal Rescue & Control services by managing incoming calls, coordinating service requests, and ...

LTD Global

Animal Dispatcher

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Through sheltering, veterinary services, wildlife rehabilitation, and community outreach, the ... Animal Rescue & Control services by managing incoming calls, coordinating service requests, and ...

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Wildlife Animal Rescue information

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How much do wildlife animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 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.

How much do wildlife rehabilitators make an hour?

Wildlife rehabilitators typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the organization they work for. Many positions are volunteer-based or part-time, and certifications in wildlife care can enhance earning potential.

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.

What is the highest paying job working with wildlife?

The highest paying jobs in wildlife rescue often include wildlife veterinarians and conservation directors, with veterinarians earning salaries exceeding $100,000 annually due to specialized training and certification. These roles typically require advanced degrees, clinical skills, and experience working with wild animals in clinical or research settings.

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.

How to get a job in wildlife rescue?

To work in wildlife rescue, candidates typically need relevant experience such as volunteering or internships with wildlife organizations, knowledge of animal care and rehabilitation, and often certifications in first aid or wildlife handling. Applying to wildlife shelters, rescue centers, or conservation groups and demonstrating a commitment to animal welfare are key steps in securing a position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Wildlife Animal Rescue professional, and why are they important?

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 qualifications do animal rescue jobs require?

Wildlife animal rescue jobs typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions preferring or requiring relevant experience or training in animal care, rehabilitation, or conservation. Certifications such as First Aid, CPR, or specialized wildlife rescue training can be beneficial, and physical fitness is often necessary due to the demands of the work environment.

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.

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
AHPD Animal Care Service Manager

AHPD Animal Care Service Manager

City of Alamo Heights

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

The Animal Care Services Division promotes compliance with State Laws and Local Ordinances concerning the abatement of animal nuisances and humane animal care through proactive community involvement, publication of domestic animal care information as well as non-domestic animal issues/concerns, and programs to control feral cat populations. The Animal Care Services Manager will manage and promote an animal rescue program for unclaimed domestic animals, participate in public adoption programs and/or network with local and distant rescue organizations for transport of animals to their rescue programs.

The Animal Care Services Manager is assigned to Police Administration and reports to the Deputy Chief of Police.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Retrieves lost, stray or otherwise at-large domestic animals; determines ownership through license/owner identification tags or microchip in order to reunite domestic animals with owners; transports animals humanely to impound facilities when necessary.
  • Investigates domestic animal complaints and conducts follow-up visits regarding City Code violations observed or reported to the Police Department.
  • Conducts follow-up investigations for all reported animal bite/scratch cases to ensure post bite/scratch requirements are met in accordance with the Texas Health and Safety Code.
  • Work proactively in the community to address domestic animal concerns; provides guidance to domestic pet owners regarding ownership responsibility, pet safety, and regulation/registration requirements.
  • Maintain the Animal Care Services webpage on the City's website and provide updates as necessary; prepares community bulletins and newsletter articles pertaining to domestic and non-domestic animal issues and concerns.
  • Maintain and update a lost and found page on the City's website to include pet description, owner information, pet location, and a picture of the lost/found pet.
  • Examine animals for signs of injury, illness or distress; seek arrangement for veterinary care; ensure animals are free from fleas, ticks and other parasites.
  • Transport domestic animals for veterinary services, training, trial home visits and other needs specific to the rescue and adoption programs.
  • Maintain records of each animal's medical history and treatments; photograph and document the progress of animals treated; schedule preventive medications and ensure they are applied; coordinate with kennel staff specific animal needs.
  • Stay current on low cost veterinary options; develop working relationships with animal hospital/rescue staff and veterinarians.
  • Seek funding raising opportunities specific to animal care services to include donation drives, grant opportunities and other fundraisers supported by animal care service support organizations and local businesses.
  • Remain current on non-domestic animal and wildlife issues/concerns; work proactively with the community to keep residents informed and provide guidance to discourage non-domestic and wildlife animal presence.
  • Manage and promote the Trap-Neuter-Return Program (T-N-R) to control the feral cat population: work with volunteers and network with outside support providers for T-N-R Program opportunities and program enhancements.
  • Enter all animal care services activities in the Police Department records management system; maintain databases and spreadsheets necessary to prepare activity reports and track expenditures.
  • Attend and successfully complete a minimum of thirty (30) hours of specialized training on topics involving domestic and non-domestic animal case service and animal control programs (Health and Safety Code Chapter 829.002).
  • Disposes of dead animals found or reported on public or private property.
  • Performs duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Experience or knowledge of 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations preferred but not required at entry level.
  • Experience in animal rescue or animal care organizations

LICENSES OR CERTIFICATION:

  • Basic Animal Control Certification
  • Valid Class C driver's license or equivalent

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • Knowledge of State Laws and local Ordinances to include, but not limited to the Texas Penal Code Chapter 42, Texas Health and Safety Code Title 10, and Chapter 4 & 10 of the Alamo Heights City Codes.
  • Knowledge in the care and use of animal control equipment, humane traps, humane capture and handling techniques, and animal transport procedures.
  • Knowledge of basic animal care and the characteristics of domestic and non-domestic animals.
  • Knowledge of computer equipment, basic computerized data entry procedures, and internet research procedures.
  • Knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word, Excel, and Outlook.
  • Knowledge of the Alamo Heights Police Department General Manual.
  • Knowledge of the Alamo Heights Employee Manual.
  • Ability to manage and operate a domestic animal rescue organization, network with other rescue organizations, and arrange for adoptions both local and distant.
  • Ability to develop and manage a foster animal program to prepare animals for adoption.
  • Ability to effectively utilize software programs designed to track animal care services activities, track licensing and microchip data, and develop reports for planning and budgetary purposes.
  • Ability to understand and manage the budget for an animal care services program and participate in budget planning each fiscal year.
  • Ability to participate or initiate fundraising opportunities with grant organizations, animal care services groups or the general public.
  • Ability to research animal control/care issues and make recommendation for remediation.
  • Ability to prepare newsletter articles and community bulletins concerning domestic and non-domestic animal issues/concerns.
  • Ability to operate a digital camera and download pictures into computer programs.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively; address sensitive animal care services related concerns tactfully in private and public venues.
  • Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.
  • Ability to read and write the English language.
  • Ability to work within the chain of command.
  • Ability to safely operate City equipment and City owned vehicles in compliance with State Law, Department policy, and City policy
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule or overtime to allow for occasional weekend adoption events.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Frequently required to lift or move heavy objects up to sixty (60) pounds.
  • May be required to climb, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.
  • Able to tolerate regular exposure to various weather conditions and outside elements.
  • Able to provide on-call responses to a variety of animal related concerns including, but not limited to injured/sick domestic and non-domestic species, wildlife intrusion, poisonous and non-poisonous reptile issues, relocation of trapped wildlife, aggressive canines, feral cats and other species of animals prohibited by City Codes.
  • Able to withstand occasional levels of noise beyond reasonable levels.
  • Able to demonstrate hand-eye coordination.

Revision Date: February 2025


Job Posted by ApplicantPro