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Working With Animals Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Adaptability with a changing schedule when working with animals * Understanding of practical principles of animal behavior and the ability to work with live animals safely * Must have excellent ...

Groomer

Brookline, MO · On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

Passion for working with animals and a demonstrated ability to handle pets of all sizes, temperaments, and breeds. * Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build ...

General Helper

Springfield, MO · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

... with basic handling of animals when needed • Ensure animals are safe, secure, and well cared for Working Conditions: • Exposure to animals, noise, and dirt • May require weekend or holiday ...

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Working With Animals information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$10

$19

$28

How much do working with animals jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for working with animals in Springfield, MO is $19.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $22.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a career working with animals?

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.

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 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.

How do I start to work 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 handling and caring for different species. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma and a genuine interest in animal welfare.

What are good careers that work with animals?

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

What careers can I have with working with animals?

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

What is the job called when you work with animals?

A job involving working with animals is typically called an animal caretaker, zookeeper, veterinarian, animal trainer, or pet groomer, depending on the specific duties. These roles often require knowledge of animal behavior, proper handling skills, and sometimes certifications or licenses. The work environment can include zoos, veterinary clinics, farms, or pet stores.

What are popular job titles related to Working With Animals jobs in Springfield, MO?

For Working With Animals jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Working With Animals jobs in Springfield, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Working With Animals jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Working With Animals jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Working With Animals job openings:

Infographic showing various Working With Animals job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 99% In-person, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,064 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Community Services Instructor | $20 - $22.50 / hour

Easterseals Midwest

Springfield, MO • On-site

$20 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

You can earn more, grow more, and Be More at Easterseals.

Easterseals leads the way to full equity, inclusion, and access for people with disabilities, families, and our community. Join us, and together, we will make the world a better, brighter, more fulfilling place for all.

As a Community Services Instructor (CSI) at Easterseals, you will be the link to the community for the people you support. You'll work alongside people with disabilities to make sure they are involved, engaged, and thriving in their community.

The Community Services Instructor provides respite care and support services to families of individuals with disabilities, primarily autism. Ensures supports provided meet organizational guidelines, funder requirements and accreditation standards.

  • Full-time employment
  • Pay based on individual experience
  • Yearly raise opportunities
  • Job training
  • Comprehensive PTO, retirement, and health benefits package for full-time team members

Qualifications for this role include:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required with some college coursework preferred.
  • Previous experience working with individuals with disabilities, including autism, and their families preferred.
  • Driver's license, car insurance and reliable transportation are required.
  • Will regularly require working Saturdays as well as until 7pm on weekdays.
  • Must be able to work in environments with animals.