Did you know that when it comes to working with animals, there are more jobs than just being a veterinarian? In fact, there are dozens of different types of animal welfare jobs, and yes, they’re all real! So, if you’ve been looking for a way to get involved in animal welfare, or even dedicate your career to animals, check out the list below to see if any of these jobs could be the right one for you!

1. Care and Enrichment Technician

Care and Enrichment Technicians work in shelters to help care for and feed the animal residents, as well as cleaning kennels. This job is a great option for anyone wanting to be hands-on with animals! The ASPCA is currently looking for care and enrichment technicians at our upcoming Recovery & Rehabilitation facility in Pawling, New York!

2. Forensic Veterinarian

A Forensic Veterinarian is not your typical veterinarian. Their job is to identify, collect and assess evidence from animal victims and their environment to help law enforcement during criminal cases. They may even be asked to appear in court to answer questions asked by law enforcement and the courts.

3. Animal Behaviorist

No one’s perfect, and shelter animals need compassion and understanding as they adjust to new surroundings. Every animal’s background and personality are unique to them. That’s why many shelters rely on Animal Behaviorists (otherwise known as Behavior Specialists or Behavior Associates) to help assess an animal’s individual behavioral needs so that they can get ready for a new home. 

4. Field Responder

Field Responders are those who work, believe it or not, in the field! They are on the front lines, assisting and rescuing animals during times of critical need, like during natural disasters or criminal cases. If you’re not ready to make a career out of field response, but still want to get involved, try becoming a volunteer for our National Field Response team!

5. Neonate Specialist

Our teeniest, tiniest population arrive at shelters at vulnerable stages in their lives. “Bottle babies,” or neonates require special care to help them grow strong and healthy if they are brought to shelters without their mothers. Neonate specialists are trained to care for these tiny animals and provide invaluable care during kitten season in the summer months.

6. Admissions and Placement Specialist

Admissions and Placement Specialists, sometimes known as “matchmakers,” or Adoptions Coordinators, work with rescues and shelters to ensure that animals are going to the best suited home for their personality and needs, which in return ensures adopters are getting a new family member who best suit their lifestyle. The ASPCA is currently looking for an Adoptions Coordinator at our upcoming Recovery & Rehabilitation facility in Pawling, New York!

7. Photographer and Videographer

This one may not seem specific to animal welfare, but photographers and videographers are always needed to help increase visibility for animals in need. In our digital age, many rescues and shelters need professional photographers and videographers to help them promote their adoptable animals online. And what’s better than a puppy or kitten photoshoot?!

If you’re ready to make the jump to a career in animal welfare, check out more ASPCA job openings — we have programs all over the country! And with a new ASPCA facility opening soon in Pawling, New York, we are in urgent need of compassionate, dedicated people to join our teams!!

If you aren’t quite ready for a career change, there are still many ways you can help animals in need like adopting, fostering, volunteering or donating!