The Animal Services Manager serves as a mission-driven leader responsible for leading animal services as a model of public trust, compassionate care, and operational excellence. This position is not just about managing a facility—it’s about shaping a high-performing team, strengthening public safety, and ensuring that every animal and citizen encounter reflects the values of empathy, accountability, and service.
Under the general direction of the Managing Director of Public Safety, the Manager oversees all aspects of shelter operations, field enforcement, public education, licensing, and community engagement. In close partnership with the Shelter Veterinarian, this role ensures that medical standards and operational practices are fully aligned to promote both animal welfare and public health.
The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking leader with the strategic insight to plan for the future and the operational discipline to manage daily responsibilities. Success in this role is measured not only in cost savings or adoption rates—but also in the trust earned from staff, residents, and partners across the community.
Essential Job Duties
- Directs and manages all day-to-day operations of Animal Services, including shelter care, field enforcement, licensing, adoptions, and intake procedures.
- Oversees staffing, scheduling, performance management, and professional development of departmental personnel.
- Develops and implements operational policies and procedures in accordance with state, federal, and local laws.
- Collaborates with the Shelter Veterinarian to ensure alignment of medical protocols with staffing and operations.
- Manages budgeting, procurement, grant efforts, and vendor contracts.
- Serves as the City’s Rabies Control Authority and ensures compliance with public health laws.
- Represents Animal Services at Council briefings, in media interactions, and with civic partners.
- Leads criminal investigations involving animal cruelty, neglect, or legal violations.
- Tracks and reports operational metrics including intake trends, adoption rates, field response, and cost per outcome.
- Ensures SOPs are reviewed annually and updated to reflect evolving legal standards and operational best practices.
- Promotes staff wellness and monitors compassion fatigue.
- Performs additional related duties as required.
Expanded Leadership Responsibilities
Strategic & Operational Planning
Develops and maintains a comprehensive operational improvement plan aligned with long-term departmental goals. Ensures efficient use of resources and clarity of mission. Sets measurable service benchmarks including reductions in animal intake, improved adoption placement rates, and increased field response efficiency.
Community Partnership & Public Education
Promotes responsible pet ownership and supports neighborhood safety through coordinated outreach campaigns. Partners with churches, civic groups, and local organizations to promote ordinance compliance, vaccination, and public awareness. Supports community-based pet retention and education initiatives.
Animal Welfare & Behavior Standards
Implements proven animal behavior protocols that reduce incidents and improve adoptability. Oversees safe animal handling, behavior assessment, and housing practices. Ensures consistent temperament testing and behavior monitoring.
Emergency Preparedness & Coordination
Serves as the lead for integrating Animal Services into the City's emergency management framework. Maintains updated emergency response protocols to ensure continuity of animal care and public safety during severe weather, public health threats, or other emergencies.
Technology & Process Improvement
Implements practical technologies such as shelter management software and mobile field tools to improve accuracy, efficiency, and service delivery. Reviews and updates SOPs annually to ensure operational compliance with city and state regulations.
Accountability & Reporting
Establishes clear service benchmarks and tracks operational data such as intake trends, adoption rates, response times, and cost per outcome. Prepares and delivers regular performance reports to city leadership, reinforcing transparency and data-driven decision-making.
Conservative Fiscal Management
Manages the Animal Services budget with a focus on fiscal discipline. Identifies savings through efficient staff scheduling, vendor management, and volunteer utilization. Ensures all grants, purchases, and operational expenses meet compliance and procurement standards.
Customer Satisfaction & Public Service
Maintains high standards for public engagement, customer service, and community trust. Trains all staff in professional communication, conflict resolution, and citizen-first service values. Conducts regular customer satisfaction tracking and uses public feedback to improve operations. Resolves escalated concerns with transparency, consistency, and follow-through.
Additional Initiatives
- Public Safety Alignment: Enhances the role of field services in neighborhood safety.
- Field Officer Training: Develops structured training to improve enforcement and resident engagement.
- Recognition Programs: Launches programs such as “Volunteer of the Month” and “Adoption Partner Recognition” to build goodwill and staff morale.
Physical and Environmental Conditions
Work involves driving, walking, and exposure to outdoor conditions and animal environments. Regular interaction with animals may include exposure to extreme temperatures, aggressive behavior, zoonotic diseases, and chemical agents. Must be able to lift 50 pounds and restrain animals safely as needed.
Required Qualifications
Education & Certification
- Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Public Administration, Biology, or related field preferred.
- Equivalent experience may be considered.
- Must hold or obtain within 6 months:
- Texas DSHS Administrative and Advanced Animal Control Certification
- Certified Euthanasia Technician
- Valid Texas Driver’s License
Experience
- Minimum five (5) years of supervisory or managerial experience in animal services, shelter operations, or code enforcement.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- In-depth understanding of municipal animal codes, enforcement, and shelter operations
- Strong leadership, organizational, and public communication skills
- Proven track record in managing budgets, staff development, and operational reform
- Ability to collaborate with diverse teams and external partners
- Committed to humane care and a resident-first public service approach