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Wildlife Animal Rescue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LTD Global

Animal Protection Investigator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

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 ...

LTD Global

Animal Protection Investigator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

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 ...

Seminole County

Animal Services Officer

Sanford, FL · On-site

Performs euthanasia on sick/injured wildlife as needed. Performs on-call duty for after-hours priority calls and natural disaster. Assists Law Enforcement, Fire/Rescue, and other agencies with animal ...

New

Vetcor

Veterinarian - Merced, CA

Merced, CA

$170K - $200K/yr

VAH is actively involved in local outreach and animal rescue initiatives, and we provide low-cost ... Residents and visitors enjoy lakes, reservoirs, wildlife wetlands, and the historic Castle Air ...

Lynker

Marine Wildlife Stranding Coordinator

Koloa, HI · On-site

... animal care prior to veterinary staff arrival, and transport deceased animals for necropsy ... Previous experience with stranding response, rescue, or necropsy for marine mammals or sea turtles.

New

Nevada County

Animal Control Officer I

Nevada City, CA · On-site

$4.3K - $5.3K/mo

... and wildlife of our community. As an Animal Control Officer, you will play a crucial role in ... Collaborate with local agencies and rescue organizations to provide the best care for animals.

Nevada County

Animal Control Officer II

Nevada City, CA · On-site

$4.8K - $5.9K/mo

... and wildlife of our community. As an Animal Control Officer, you will play a crucial role in ... Collaborate with local agencies and rescue organizations to provide the best care for animals.

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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 Jul 4, 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 do I become a wildlife rescuer?

To become a wildlife rescuer, you typically need to gain experience with animal care, often through volunteering or internships with wildlife organizations. Relevant skills include knowledge of animal behavior, first aid, and sometimes certifications in wildlife rehabilitation or related fields; a background in biology or environmental science can also be helpful.

What certifications do you need to work at a wildlife rescue center?

Wildlife animal rescue workers typically do not require formal certifications, but certifications in first aid, CPR, and wildlife handling can enhance employability. Some positions may require specialized training in animal care, rehabilitation, or species-specific knowledge, and relevant experience is often valued.

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, licensing, and experience working in field or clinical 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.

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 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.

Is animal rescue a good career path?

Wildlife animal rescue is a rewarding but challenging career that involves caring for injured or orphaned animals and often requires knowledge of animal behavior, first aid, and conservation practices. It can be physically demanding and may involve irregular hours, but it offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on animal welfare and conservation efforts.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,859 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
Animal Protection Investigator

Animal Protection Investigator

LTD Global

San Mateo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

About the organization
A 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. It is committed to community outreach, education, and advocacy, ensuring the well-being of animals and fostering a humane community.
Position Overview
The Animal Protection Investigator is responsible for investigating complaints and reports of animal cruelty or neglect, preparing case reports and files for legal authorities, and providing testimony as required. This role plays a critical part in ensuring the humane treatment of animals and supporting legal action when necessary.
Responsibilities:
  • Receive, evaluate, and respond to complaints of animal cruelty or neglect via phone, email, in person, or other communication channels.
  • Enter and update case information and follow-up actions in the case management database.
  • Maintain accurate daily activity reports.
  • Impound or assist with the impoundment and seizure of animals when required.
  • Collect, preserve, and store evidence; submit evidence to outside agencies or vendors for testing as needed.
  • Photograph and thoroughly document potential crime scenes.
  • Photograph and assist with veterinary exams and necropsies.
  • Conduct interviews with suspects and witnesses.
  • Prepare detailed case reports and files in a timely manner for District Attorney offices, law enforcement, or other requesting agencies.
  • Provide testimony in court or at seizure hearings as needed.
  • Prepare and execute search warrants and arrest warrants; issue citations and compliance notices; educate the public on proper animal care and treatment.
  • Provide guidance to the public on reporting non-cruelty matters to the appropriate agencies.
  • Train internal staff on recognizing cruelty/neglect concerns and establishing reporting expectations.
  • Assist Animal Control or Rescue departments as needed, including during large-scale impounds.
  • Assist law enforcement agencies when necessary.
  • Ensure humane care and handling of all animals under the organization's care.
  • Log and update case status in weekly reports.
  • Prepare statistical data related to cruelty investigations.

Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, candidates must be able to complete all essential responsibilities. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
  • Ability to manage the emotional aspects of end-of-life situations, including humane euthanasia, and to support staff through high-emotion circumstances.
  • Ability to pass a criminal background check.
Education & Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent and two (2) years of experience as an Animal Control/Humane Officer
    OR an equivalent combination of education and experience totaling four (4) years in animal control.
  • Completion of courses similar to California Corporation Code 14502 requirements, including PC 832.
  • Completion of the Humane Academy or similar training is preferred.

Skills & Competencies
Language Skills
  • Ability to read and interpret instructions, correspondence, and memos.
  • Ability to write clear reports and professional correspondence.
  • Strong verbal communication skills and ability to present information in one-on-one and small-group settings with staff, volunteers, and the public.
Mathematical Skills
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide; comfort working with measurements and units.
Reasoning Ability
  • Ability to apply common sense to carry out tasks based on detailed written or verbal instructions.
  • Ability to solve problems involving concrete variables in standard situations.
Computer Skills
  • Experience with a case management database (e.g., Chameleon) or willingness to become proficient within six months of hire.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, keyboarding, and data entry.

Licenses & Certifications
  • Certified in Euthanasia and trained in decapitation.
  • Valid California Driver's License with a clean driving record and insurability.

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