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Wildlife Animal Rescue Jobs in Dallas, TX (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Animal Services Officer

Lewisville, TX · On-site

$45K - $48K/yr

... wildlife concerns, rabies prevention, and available Animal Services programs. Assists with adoptions, owner reunifications, rescue coordination, volunteer activities, foster programs, and community ...

Animal Services Officer

Lewisville, TX · On-site

$45K - $48K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

... wildlife concerns, rabies prevention, and available Animal Services programs. * Assists with adoptions, owner reunifications, rescue coordination, volunteer activities, foster programs, and community ...

New

... wildlife. Investigates complaints and bite reports. Collects rabies specimens. Performs vector ... Works with the general public and rescue/humane organizations to re-home animals from the shelter ...

Aquarist 1

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Aquarist 1 Position Title Aquarist 1 Reports To Animal Care Manager Department Animal Care Location ... PADI Rescue Diver or equivalent preferred. * First Aid, Emergency O2, and AED certification ...

Wildlife Animal Rescue information

See Dallas, TX salary details

$16

$21

$30

How much do wildlife animal rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for wildlife animal rescue in Dallas, TX is $21.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $21.63 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.

What are popular job titles related to Wildlife Animal Rescue jobs in Dallas, TX?

For Wildlife Animal Rescue jobs in Dallas, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Wildlife Animal Rescue jobs in Dallas, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Wildlife Animal Rescue jobs in Dallas, TX are:

What cities near Dallas, TX are hiring for Wildlife Animal Rescue jobs?

Cities near Dallas, TX with the most Wildlife Animal Rescue job openings:

Infographic showing various Wildlife Animal Rescue job openings in Dallas, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,376 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Animal Control Officer

City of University Park

Dallas, TX • On-site

$41K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Summary Brief Description The purpose of this position is to administer, communicate, investigate and enforce all codes, ordinances and regulations related to animal control, animal cruelty and neglect, and perform related duties to promote education and compliance with laws regulating animal treatment. This is accomplished by identifying violations; issuing warning and citations; performing animal 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 Functions Note: This information is intended to be descriptive of the key responsibilities of the position. The list of essential functions below does not identify all duties performed by any single incumbent in this position. Additionally, please be aware of the legend below when referring to the physical demands of each essential function.

Physical demand legend (S) Sedentary - Exerting up to 10 lbs. occasionally or negligible weights frequently; sitting most of the time. (L) Light - Exerting up to 20 lbs.

occasionally; 10 lbs. frequently; or negligible amounts constantly; OR requires walking or standing to a significant degree. (M) Medium - Exerting 20-50 lbs.

occasionally; 10-25 lbs. frequently; or up to 10 lbs. constantly.

(H) Heavy - Exerting 50-100 lbs. occasionally; 10-25 lbs. frequently; or up to 10-20 lbs.

constantly. (V) Very Heavy - Exerting over 100 lbs. occasionally; 50-100 lbs.

frequently; or up to 20-50 lbs. constantly. Essential functions (M) Medium - 35% of time: Identifies violations by patrolling city limits; observing areas of alleged violations; interviewing available witnesses to determine if laws are being violated; responding to calls; and proactively issuing citations and warnings.

(H) Heavy - 35% of time: Performs animal rescue duties and aids animals in distress by picking up animals; freeing trapped animals or rescuing strays; removing animals from inhumane conditions; safely disposing of animals; and transporting animals to shelters for treatment, care, or impoundment/quarantine. (L) Light - 15% of time: Educates citizens on safety and benefits of both domestic animals and wildlife by giving presentations on animal safety and care; coordinating trap lending services to residents; and providing instruction on removing nuisance animals from homes. (S) Sedentary - 15% of time: Performs related administrative duties by verifying animal billing; completing trap lending and other related services paperwork; and completing monthly reports.

Qualifications Job Requirements Description of minimum job requirements. Formal Education: Work requires knowledge of specific vocational, administrative, or technical nature that may be obtained with six-month/one year of advanced study or training past the high school equivalency. Junior college, vocational, business, and technical or correspondence schools are likely sources.

Appropriate certificate may be awarded upon satisfactory completion of advanced study or training. Experience: Previous experience is preferred but not required. Supervision: Job has no responsibility for the direction or supervision of others.

Human Collaboration Skills: Work may require providing advice to others outside direct reporting relationships on specific problems or general policies. Contacts may require the consideration of different points of view to reach agreement. Elements of persuasion may be necessary to gain cooperation and acceptance of ideas.

Freedom to Act: Receives General Direction - the employee normally performs the job by following established standard operating procedures and/or policies. There is a choice of the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties. Performance is reviewed periodically.

Technical Skills: Work requires analysis and judgment in accomplishing diversified duties. Requires the exercise of independent thinking within the limits of policies, standards, and precedents. Budget Responsibility: Job has no budgetary responsibilities.

Reading: Intermediate - Ability to read papers, periodicals, journals, manuals, dictionaries, thesauruses, and encyclopedias. Ordinarily, such education is obtained in high school up to college. However, it may be obtained from experience and self-study.

Math: Basic - Ability to perform the four basic arithmetic operations. Ordinarily, such education is obtained in elementary school up to high school. However, it may be obtained from experience and self-study.

Writing: Intermediate - Ability to write reports, prepare business letters, expositions, and summaries with proper format, punctuation, spelling, and grammar, using all parts of speech. Ordinarily, such education is obtained in high school up to college. However, it may be obtained from experience and self-study.

Certification & Other Requirements: Valid driver's license; Basic Animal Control required within 1 year of employment. Supplemental Information Frequency key: Continuously = 2/3 or more of the time Frequently = 1/3 to 2/3 of the time Occasionally = up to 1/3 of the time Rarely = less than 1 hour per week Never = never occurs. Overall Physical Strength Demands Physical strength for this position is Medium - exerting 20-50 lbs.

occasionally, 10-25 lbs. frequently, or up to 10 lbs. constantly.

Physical Demands Note: This is intended as a description of the way the job is currently performed. It does not address the potential for accommodation Standing - Occasionally - Communicating with co-workers Sitting - Frequently - Desk work and driving Walking - Frequently - Around work site and to other departments/offices Lifting - Frequently - Supplies, equipment, files, and animals Carrying - Occasionally - Supplies, equipment, files, and animals Pushing/Pulling - Rarely Reaching - Occasionally - For supplies Handling - Frequently - Paperwork Fine Dexterity - Frequently - Computer keyboard, telephone pad Kneeling - Occasionally - Retrieving items from lower shelves/ground and animals Crouching - Frequently - Retrieving items from lower shelves/ground and animals Crawling - Rarely - Inside attics/pipes/ditches Bending - Frequently - Retrieving items from lower shelves/ground and animals Twisting - Frequently - Getting inside vehicle Climbing - Rarely - Stairs and on step stool Balancing - Rarely - On step stools Vision - Continuously - Observing work site, reading, computer screen, driving Hearing - Frequently - Communicating with co-workers and public and on telephone Talking - Frequently - Communicating with co-workers and public and on telephone Foot Controls - Frequently - Driving Other (specified if applicable) - Never Machines, Tools, Equipment, Software, and Hardware Computer, printer, and related software, telephone, copier, catch pole, mace, traps, transfer cages, fatal plus, snake tongs, syringes, pet treats, nets, carriers, leashes, and related office materials. Environmental Factors Health and safety factors Mechanical Hazards - Never Chemical Hazards - Rarely Electrical Hazards - Rarely Fire Hazards - Never Explosives - Never Communicable Diseases - Rarely Physical Danger or Abuse - Frequently Other - Never (N/A) Environmental factors Frequency key: Daily Several Times Per Week Several Times Per Month Seasonally Never.

Respiratory Hazards - Daily Extreme Temperatures - Seasonally Noise and Vibration - Never Wetness/Humidity - Seasonally Physical Hazards - Daily Protective Equipment Required Gloves, goggles, and rain coat. Non-Physical Demands Time Pressure - Rarely Emergency Situation - Occasionally Frequent Change of Tasks - Rarely Irregular Work Schedule/Overtime - Rarely Performing Performing Multiple Tasks Simultaneously - Rarely Working Closely with Others as Part of a Team - Rarely Tedious or Exacting Work - Rarely Noisy/Distracting Environment - Rarely Other - Never (N/A) Primary Work Location Primary work location for this position is Outdoors.