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Wildlife Vet Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

REG VET TECH

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

PHS/SPCA is truly an open admission shelter, not only accepting many pet animals who might be refused at other shelters, but also taking care of injured and orphaned native wildlife from San ...

PHS/SPCA is truly an open admission shelter, not only accepting many pet animals who might be refused at other shelters, but also taking care of injured and orphaned native wildlife from San ...

REG VET TECH

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

PHS/SPCA is truly an open admission shelter, not only accepting many pet animals who might be refused at other shelters, but also taking care of injured and orphaned native wildlife from San ...

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Wildlife Vet Tech information

See salary details

$11

$23

$47

How much do wildlife vet tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for wildlife vet tech in the United States is $23.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Wildlife Vet Tech vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectWildlife Vet TechVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree, wildlife-specific training, certificationAssociate degree, general veterinary technician certification
Work EnvironmentWildlife rehabilitation centers, conservation projects, outdoor settingsAnimal clinics, hospitals, veterinary practices
Employer & IndustryWildlife organizations, zoos, conservation agenciesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals
Common Search & ComparisonWildlife Vet Tech vs Veterinary Technician

Wildlife Vet Techs focus on caring for wild animals in natural or rehabilitation settings, often requiring specialized wildlife training. Veterinary Technicians work primarily in clinical settings, providing support in veterinary hospitals. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in work environment and focus, making them distinct career paths within animal healthcare.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wildlife vet tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wildlife Vet Tech, you need a solid background in animal science or veterinary technology, with relevant certification (such as a Veterinary Technician license) and experience in wildlife or exotic animal care. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, anesthesia machines, wildlife capture equipment, and medical record systems is typically required. Excellent observation skills, adaptability, and teamwork are crucial soft skills, especially when handling unpredictable wildlife and collaborating with veterinarians and conservation staff. These competencies ensure the safe, effective treatment and rehabilitation of wild animals, supporting both animal welfare and conservation goals.

What is a wildlife vet tech?

Wildlife vet techs, or wildlife veterinary technicians, are specialized veterinary professionals who assist veterinarians in caring for wild animals. They work in environments such as wildlife rehabilitation centers, zoos, and conservation organizations. Their duties include performing medical tests, assisting in surgeries, monitoring animal health, administering medications, and helping with the rehabilitation and release of injured or sick wildlife. Wildlife vet techs play a crucial role in protecting animal health and supporting conservation efforts.

What are some unique challenges a wildlife vet tech may face compared to traditional veterinary technicians?

Wildlife Vet Techs often work with a wide variety of species, each with distinct anatomy, behavior, and care requirements, making adaptability and ongoing learning essential. They may encounter unpredictable and sometimes dangerous situations, such as handling injured wild animals or working outdoors in challenging environments. Additionally, the work can be emotionally demanding due to the nature of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, but it is also highly rewarding for those passionate about conservation. Collaboration with veterinarians, biologists, and rehabilitation specialists is common, providing a dynamic and team-oriented work environment.
More about Wildlife Vet Tech jobs
What states have the most Wildlife Vet Tech jobs? States with the most job openings for Wildlife Vet Tech jobs include:
Infographic showing various Wildlife Vet Tech job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,268 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Registered Veterinary Technician

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt; Part Time (24-30 hours per week) (Will consider Full Time)

Salary: $25.00-$35.00/hour (DOE); plus Sign-on Bonus ($2,500 - $5,000 DOE)

Excellent benefits package available

Who are we: Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA (PHS/SPCA) is a local, private, non-profit charitable organization dedicated to animal welfare. It is our mission to build healthy relationships between people and animals. PHS/SPCA is truly an open admission shelter, not only accepting many pet animals who might be refused at other shelters, but also taking care of injured and orphaned native wildlife from San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. Our work means 6,300 lives saved each year. Our spay and neuter clinic offers low-cost services to the community.

Who are you: You enjoy rehabilitating animals to great health and making a difference for the animals that come through our doors. With your veterinary knowledge, you can readily assist our veterinary staff through precise medical evaluations, surgeries, and procedures. Your passion for animal care extends to our shelter workplace and our clients.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned:

  • Perform physical exams.
  • Restrain animals for exams and/or treatment.
  • Perform inventory and stock and re-stock supplies.
  • Perform laboratory procedures including the use of a microscope, blood and dental machines.
  • Initiation of emergency medical practices as necessary.
  • Calculate and prepare medications for patients.
  • Induce and maintain animals under anesthesia. Ensure that all animals are monitored while under anesthesia. Assist veterinarian during surgery.
  • Ensure that each animal receives the proper vaccinations.
  • Provide humane care and treatment of all sheltered animals.
  • Perform admitting and discharge duties for public and shelter animals.
  • Calculate and draw pre-anesthetic/anesthetic drugs prior to surgery.
  • Maintain controlled substances log for Spay & Neuter and In-House Clinic.
  • Responsible for the surgical preparation of patients, including sterilization, administration of pre-surgical injections.
  • Assist the Veterinarians at PHS/SPCA in surgery or as needed.
  • Maintain proper paperwork and medical records as required by law.
  • Maintain department equipment in good working order. Report items for repair/replacement as needed to management as necessary.
  • Euthanize and/or assist with euthanasia of animals as needed in accordance with PHS/SPCA policies and procedures.
  • Maintain a clean and sanitary work area in all work spaces.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This position may supervise volunteers.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one-year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Previous experience proficiently performing dental procedures on dogs and cats, including extractions and sutures is required.
  • Registered Veterinary Technician certification from an accredited program is required.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, shelter medical records and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Ability to speak effectively before members of the public, volunteers or employees of organization. Good oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work well under pressure in emergency situations, deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
  • Knowledge of Chameleon database software or become proficient within the probationary period (first six months from hire date). Basic knowledge, or become proficient with Microsoft Office and computer keyboarding skills, and data entry.
  • Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 50-75 pounds.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

Registered Veterinary Technician License

Excellent Benefits Package Available

  • Medical /Dental /Vision/Life/ Flex Spending
  • Sick, Vacation and Holiday pay
  • Continued Education Reimbursement
  • License Renewal and Uniform Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Retirement plan & employer matching

Available to all employees with pets:

  • Free vaccines, spay/neuter, microchipping, and two pet adoptions
  • Discounted euthanasia services/cremation, bloodwork, urinalysis, prescription food, and discounts at our retail stores.

The Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA is an equal opportunity employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. EOE/M/F/D/V/SO