Animal Care Specialist (U.S. Army Soldier)

United States Army; Virginia; On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The U.S. Army seeks an Animal Care Specialist responsible for ensuring the health and well-being of military animals, including providing medical care and overseeing daily activities. This role is critical for the operational effectiveness of military units depending on service animals.

Benefits

Housing allowance

Comprehensive healthcare benefits

Education benefits including GI Bill

Mental health services

Qualifications

• Responsible for the health and well-being of military animals.
• Assists veterans during examinations and treatments.
• Maintains medical records in compliance with military standards.

Responsibilities

• Provides emergency and routine medical care for military animals.
• Oversees daily care, including feeding and exercising.
• Maintains detailed medical records and ensures compliance with military standards.

Skills

Emergency medical care

Routine medical care

Veterinarian assistance

Record maintenance

Animal training

Job description

An animal care specialist in the Army is responsible for ensuring the health and well-being of military animals, including working dogs, horses, and other service animals. Their duties involve providing routine and emergency medical care, such as vaccinations, surgeries, and treatments for injuries and illnesses. They assist veterinarians during examinations and surgical procedures, administer medications, and perform diagnostic tests. Animal care specialists also oversee the daily care of animals, including feeding, grooming, and exercising them to maintain their fitness and readiness. They maintain detailed medical records for each animal and ensure that all care complies with military standards and regulations. Additionally, they may be involved in training animals for specific tasks, such as detection, patrol, or ceremonial duties, ensuring they are fit for their roles. Their work is essential for the operational effectiveness and safety of military units that rely on animals for critical missions.

Additional Benefits and Entitlements:

Housing & Lodging:

• Soldiers in this position receive additional compensation for Housing/Lodging Costs for themselves and immediate family members, in addition to their salary. This entitlement is referred to as the Basic Allowance for Housing. Rates for these entitlements can be found at https://www.military.com/benefits/military-pay/basic-allowance-for-housing

Premium Healthcare Benefits:

• TRICARE Health Plan: Provides comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage for you and your family.
• No-Cost Healthcare: Active-duty members receive medical and dental care at no cost; families can access services at military or civilian facilities through TRICARE at little or no cost.
• Dental Care: Includes annual check-ups, cleanings, and treatments.
• Vision Coverage: Includes routine eye exams and discounts on eyewear or corrective surgery.
• Health & Wellness Programs: Preventive health, counseling, fitness resources, and more.
• Maternity and Paternity Benefits: Prenatal, labor, and postnatal care; maternity and paternity leave.
• Long-term Care: Resources for long-term health needs or disabilities.
• Mental Health Services: Counseling, therapy, and mental health resources.

Education Benefits:
Qualified Soldiers and their spouses can earn full tuition, scholarships, and grants for higher education while in service. Additional benefits include:

• GI Bill Scholarship: 4 years of full-time tuition, books, and living expenses.
• Tuition Assistance Grant: $4,500 annually.
• Student Loan Repayment Program: Up to $65,000 of outstanding student loans.
• More information at https://www.goarmy.com/benefits/while-you-serve/education-training.

VA Home Loan: Helps Soldiers become homeowners with competitive interest rates, often without a down payment or PMI. You must serve at least 90 consecutive days on active duty and meet credit and income criteria. More info at Eligibility and Requirements For VA Home Loan Programs | Veterans Affairs.

The U.S. Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against.