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Working With Animals Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Champaign County

Kennel Worker

Urbana, IL · On-site

$18.45 - $23.38/hr

Assists with euthanasia of animals. Qualifications * High school diploma or general education degree and six months of experience working with animals is desirable -or- equivalent combination of ...

Kryder Kritter Hotel

Kennel Attendant

Granger, IN · On-site

$11 - $14/hr

Working with animals is fulfilling and makes it fun to get up and go to work everyday! Our attendants are expected to: * Show up on time and be reliable. * Communicate and work well with others.

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How much do working with animals jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for working with animals in the United States is $21.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.76 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.
More about Working With Animals jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Working With Animals jobs? The most popular types of Working With Animals jobs are:
What states have the most Working With Animals jobs? States with the most job openings for Working With Animals jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Working With Animals jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Working With Animals jobs are:
Working With Animals jobs near you
Kennel Worker

Kennel Worker

Champaign County

Urbana, IL • On-site

$18.45 - $23.38/hr

Part-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Champaign County/Kennel Worker (Animal Control)
Date Posted:
5/4/2026
Location:
210 S. Art Bartell (Animal Control)
Date Available:
ASAP
Closing Date:
07/06/2026
Job Title: Kennel Worker (Part-Time, Non-Exempt)
Department: Animal Control
Schedule: Weekends, Friday - Sunday
Summary
Responsible for intake of impounded animals, including the classifying, care, and handling of those animals.
Primary Responsibilities
Include but not limited to the following as other duties may be assigned.
  • Cleans and maintains kennel area of Animal Control Facility, in such a manner as to provide an odor free and low stress environment for the animals.
  • Feeds and provides daily care for all animals in the County's care.
  • Handles and controls animals impounded by Animal Control departments, including difficult to handle and potentially dangerous animals.
  • Reports to the Animal Control Director or veterinarian any potential health or behavioral problems involving the animals in the County's care.
  • Maintains records of animals impounded.
  • Light cleaning of offices - emptying trash, mopping of floors, and cleaning of restrooms.
  • Assists with euthanasia of animals.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or general education degree and six months of experience working with animals is desirable -or- equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Requires thorough knowledge of animal handling skills, animal behavior, and animal care.

Compensation
  • The wage range is $18.45 - $23.38 per hour depending on qualifications.
  • Champaign County is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, health insurance, life insurance, and employer contributions to a defined-benefit retirement plan. Benefit details can be found on the Champaign County Jobs page

How To Apply
  • Submit an application online by visiting the Champaign County Open Positions page.
  • All questions and requests for accommodation should be directed to Chelsea Angelo by phone at 217-384-3798 or by email.

Applicants should note this is a Bargaining Unit position under the Agreement set by the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Union contract.
EEO / AA / ADA

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