Animal Rescue Jobs

If you want to work for an animal rescue group or non-profit, almost always the best way to get in the door is by volunteering, as these groups often don’t have large budgets for paid stuff.

It also takes patience, because the paying jobs are usually few and far between, and it can take waiting years for someone to retire before a paid position becomes available.

Most animal rescue jobs also require individuals to be at least 18 years old, and often to have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. So it’s obviously not that difficult to get involved with animal rescue operations!

Often volunteers start in small roles, such as helping socialize animals through play and exercise, walking dogs and helping with grooming animals. Some choose to work more with the public, helping to place animals with suitable families, or as greeters or education providers in classrooms and other public areas, teaching about the humane treatment of animals, pet overpopulation and what can be done about it. There are also administrative positions that deal with paperwork, phones and general computer skills.

Most of these positions only require a high school diploma or GED equivalent, and minimal education or hands on animal experience. These positions do, however, often require flexible schedules, including the ability to work weekends and holidays. NOTE – Be sure to review the Outdoor Jobs section of JobMonkey for information about wildlife jobs similar to these.

While volunteer positions offer no pay of benefits, full time positions are typically paid be the hour, usually close to or a bit above minimum wage, including benefits after a certain time period of service.