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Working With Animals Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DogGonit Pets

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Pet Store Retail Associate

Cloverdale, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $19/hr

If you enjoy working with both people and animals and are passionate about providing exceptional customer service, we'd love to hear from you! Responsibilities * Greet customers and provide ...

LIVERMORE KENNELS INC

Pet Resort Technician

Livermore, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $16.50/hr

This is an entry level position; previous experience working with animals is preferred, but not required. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: - Feeding, watering and picking up after animals - Administering ...

LIVERMORE KENNELS INC

Pet Resort Technician

Livermore, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $16.50/hr

This is an entry level position; previous experience working with animals is preferred, but not required. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: - Feeding, watering and picking up after animals - Administering ...

The Pets Choice

Pet bather

Wilmington, CA · On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

Looking for a experience pet bather. Must have 3 months of working with animals, more is always better. Please call 424-570-0053 or stop bye. This starts as part time and will work up to full time. ...

The Pets Choice

Pet bather

Wilmington, CA · On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

Looking for a experience pet bather. Must have 3 months of working with animals, more is always better. Please call 424-570-0053 or stop bye. This starts as part time and will work up to full time. ...

Westminster Adoption Group Services

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Kennel Attendant- Full-time

Westminster, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

We are committed to working with our local community with compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of animals that enter our shelter.

Westminster Adoption Group Services

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Kennel Attendant- Full-time

Westminster, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

We are committed to working with our local community with compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of animals that enter our shelter.

AMORE FOR DOGS

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ANIMAL CAREGIVER

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Genuine love and passion for working with animals

New

AMORE FOR DOGS

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ANIMAL CAREGIVER

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Genuine love and passion for working with animals

New

The Grand Lake Veterinary Hospital

Head RVT

Oakland, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Enjoys working with animals and can handle them even when they are stressed, ill, or in pain. * Stays calm and efficient during a medical crisis. * Well-spoken and approaches job duties in a mature ...

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All JobsWorking With Animals JobsWorking With Animals Jobs in California

Working With Animals information

See California salary details

$11

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$31

How much do working with animals jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for working with animals in California is $21.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

In the field of working with animals, high-paying roles such as specialized animal trainers, veterinary technicians with advanced skills, or private exotic animal caretakers can sometimes earn around $4,000 weekly, especially with experience, certifications, or working in affluent or private settings. These positions often require specific skills, certifications, or extensive experience rather than formal degrees. Most entry-level animal-related jobs tend to pay less, but specialized or private sector roles can reach higher income levels.

What are some common challenges faced when working with animals in a professional setting?

Professionals working with animals often encounter challenges such as unpredictable animal behavior, physically demanding tasks, and emotional stress from caring for sick or injured animals. Adapting quickly to each animal's unique temperament and needs is essential, as is following strict safety and hygiene protocols. Teamwork is also crucial, as animal care roles frequently require close collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and other specialists to ensure the well-being of the animals.

What are good careers that work with animals?

Working with animals offers careers such as veterinarian, zookeeper, animal trainer, wildlife rehabilitator, and pet groomer. These roles often require specific training, certifications, or degrees, and involve working in environments like clinics, zoos, shelters, or farms.

What is the difference between Working With Animals vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectWorking With AnimalsAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsVaries; often no formal certification neededCertification or training often preferred or required
Work EnvironmentZoos, shelters, farms, pet storesVeterinary clinics, animal shelters, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal welfare organizations, pet industry, farmsVeterinary hospitals, research facilities, shelters
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles involving animalsDetails about animal care responsibilities and qualifications

Working With Animals is a broad term covering various roles involving animal interaction, while Animal Care Technicians focus specifically on providing medical and daily care in veterinary or shelter settings. Both roles require a passion for animals, but Animal Care Technicians often need specific training or certification. The choice depends on your desired work environment and career goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a career working with animals, and why are they important?

To thrive in a career working with animals, you generally need knowledge of animal behavior, basic animal care, and, for some roles, certifications or degrees in animal science or veterinary technology. Familiarity with animal handling equipment, record-keeping systems, and sometimes first aid or animal CPR certification is typical. Compassion, patience, and strong observational skills are crucial soft skills for ensuring animal welfare and effective communication with team members or pet owners. These skills and qualities are vital for promoting animal health, safety, and positive human-animal interactions in various professional settings.

How do I get started working with animals?

To start working with animals, gain relevant experience through volunteering at shelters, farms, or veterinary clinics. Obtain necessary certifications such as animal first aid or pet CPR, and develop skills in animal handling, communication, and observation. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent and a genuine interest in animal care.

What jobs can you do with animals?

Working with animals includes roles such as veterinarian, animal trainer, zookeeper, pet groomer, wildlife rehabilitator, and veterinary technician. These jobs often require specific training, certifications, or degrees, and involve working in environments like clinics, zoos, shelters, or farms.

What does working with animals involve?

Working with animals can include a variety of roles such as veterinary care, animal training, animal shelter work, wildlife conservation, and research. Professionals in this field may care for animals' health, train them for specific tasks, or work to conserve endangered species. The work environment can range from clinics and zoos to laboratories and the wild. Responsibilities often include feeding, cleaning, monitoring behavior, and sometimes educating the public about animal welfare. The job can be physically demanding but is often rewarding for animal lovers.
What are the most commonly searched types of Working With Animals jobs in California? The most popular types of Working With Animals jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Working With Animals jobs in California? For Working With Animals jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Working With Animals jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Working With Animals jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Working With Animals jobs? Cities in California with the most Working With Animals job openings:
Working With Animals jobs near you
Infographic showing various Working With Animals job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,553 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Pet Store Retail Associate

DogGonit Pets

Cloverdale, CA • On-site

$17.50 - $19/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

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Job description

Pet Store Retail Associate (Part-Time)

Pay: $17.00–$19.00 per hour

We are seeking a dependable, friendly, and customer-focused Pet Store Retail Associate to join our team. This position combines retail sales, customer service, inventory management, and the daily care of our adoptable in-store kittens.

As a locally owned and family-operated, community-focused pet store, we are dedicated to exceptional customer service, animal welfare, and creating a welcoming shopping experience for every customer who walks through our doors.

If you enjoy working with both people and animals and are passionate about providing exceptional customer service, we'd love to hear from you!

Responsibilities

  • Greet customers and provide exceptional customer service.
  • Assist customers with selecting pet food, supplies, toys, and accessories by offering knowledgeable product recommendations (training provided on specific products).
  • Operate the cash register and accurately process cash and credit card transactions.
  • Stock shelves, replenish merchandise, and maintain organized, attractive displays.
  • Monitor inventory levels and assist with product ordering and receiving.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming store environment.
  • Care for our adoptable in-store kittens by cleaning enclosures, refreshing food and water, and maintaining a clean, healthy environment.
  • Answer customer questions about pet care, products, and the adoption process.

Qualifications

  • A minimum of 3 months of hands-on experience working with animals is required.
  • Previous retail experience is required.
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills.
  • Comfortable cleaning animal enclosures and caring for cats.
  • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
  • Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently as well as part of a team.
  • Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and remain on your feet throughout your shift.

Schedule

  • Part-time
  • Daytime availability is required.
  • Saturday availability is required.
  • We are closed on Sundays.

Required Experience

At least 3 months of experience working with animals in a pet store, veterinary clinic, animal shelter, rescue, kennel, daycare, grooming facility, or similar environment. This requirement helps ensure our team can provide knowledgeable care for our animals and exceptional service to our customers.

How to Apply

Please include a brief note with your application describing:

  • Your retail experience.
  • Your experience working with animals.
  • Why you're interested in joining our team.

We look forward to learning more about you!

If you're passionate about pets, enjoy helping customers, and are looking for a rewarding part-time position where you can make a difference for both pets and their owners, we'd love to hear from you!