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Wildlife Animal Rescue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Midland, TX

Lead Animal Care Specialist

Midland, TX · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

... wildlife facilities, and sick/injured animal room. * Assists in euthanasia and disposal of animals ... rescue organizations. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS : Knowledge, Abilities and Skills Ability to interact ...

City of Midland

Lead Animal Care Specialist

Midland, TX

$39K/yr

... areas, wildlife facilities, and sick/injured animal room. Assists in euthanasia and disposal of ... rescue organizations. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge, Abilities and Skills Ability to interact ...

coctx

Animal Care Specialist

Carrollton, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Works with the general public and rescue/humane organizations to re-home animals from the shelter ... wildlife rehabilitators for the successful rehabilitation of injured or orphaned wildlife.

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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
Animal Control & Wildlife Services Officer

Animal Control & Wildlife Services Officer

LTD Global, LLC

San Mateo, CA

Other

Posted 26 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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