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I Heart Dogs Rescue and Animal Haven
Animal Care Specialist
Career Insights for Animal Care Worker / Manager
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Based on Michigan data
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What they do
An Animal Care Worker or Manager manages animal care and grooming for a retail store that sells pets or for a pet grooming business. May also provide animal care and grooming at a kennel. Works with animals in shelters or rescue organizations. Works primarily with dogs and cats. Assists veterinarians with vaccinations or other procedures; screens people who want to adopt an animal from a shelter and provides information about caring for animals.
$31,714 / year median in Michigan
+11% projected growth
Job Description
This isn't just a job. It's kind of a calling. If you're the type of person who stops to say hi to every dog you pass, gets personally invested in animals you've just met, and wants to spend your workday actually making a difference — we might be your people. I Heart Dogs Rescue and Animal Haven is a nonprofit, no-kill rescue in Warren, MI, and we're looking for an Animal Care Specialist to join our team. We won't sugarcoat it — this job is physically and emotionally demanding. Some days will wipe you out completely. But for the right person, it's also the best job they've ever had! If you're looking for something short-term or seasonal, this isn't it. If you're looking for somewhere you can really dig in and build something — we'd love to meet you. What you'll actually be doing: Daily care for our dogs — feeding, watering, medicating, play groups, yard time, and a whole lot of love! Deep cleaning and sanitizing kennels and animal housing areas (yes, a LOT of cleaning!) Bathing and grooming Monitoring animal health and behavior and flagging anything that needs attention Helping potential adopters meet their future best friend Performing basic medical procedures like vaccinations and microchipping Keeping the whole facility clean and running smoothly What we bring to the table: Bring Your Dog To Work Day is every day! — yes, really Free or discounted veterinary care for your personal pets 1.5x pay on holidays Your birthday off, paid Paid lunch breaks Paid sick time Work t-shirts and sweatshirts provided Non-slip shoes or boots provided Ongoing training and development Discounted adoption fees Eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) What we're looking for: We'll be honest — we don't just hire for skills. We hire for vibe . We're a small, close-knit team who work hard, care deeply about the animals, and show up for each other just as much. We need people who consistently show up, dig in, and can still find something to laugh about at the end of a long, messy day. Prior hands-on experience with dogs (beyond your own) is required — vet clinics, boarding, doggy daycare, shelters, training centers, farms, zoos, and volunteer work all count Upbeat, team-oriented, and easy to work with — we spend a lot of hours together Able to multitask in a fast-paced environment and manage your time without someone looking over your shoulder Comfortable with dogs of any size, breed, or age Able to lift up to 50 lbs and stay on your feet for up to 8 hours High school diploma or GED required Reliable transportation and consistent attendance — this is non-negotiable! At least 1 year of stable employment history at a prior job Available to work weekdays, weekends, and some holidays; flexible schedule preferred The details: We are located at 9 Mile/Groesbeck Hwy in Warren, MI. Our facility runs 8:00 AM-8:30 PM every day. Available shifts are 8:00 AM-3:30 PM and 1:00-8:30 PM — we're looking for applicants who are available for both, not just day shifts. This is a part-time position (22-30 hours/week) with the potential to eventually grow into full-time. This position requires one weekend shift per week and some holidays.