Job Summary:Under general supervision, this position is a non-sworn, civilian role primarily responsible for the care, welfare, and management of animals temporarily housed in the City’s kennels. This role provides direct supervision to animal care staff, oversees daily operations to ensure high-quality humane treatment, coordinates medical care with veterinary professionals, manages adoptions and euthanasia decisions in accordance with established ethical guidelines and regulations, maintains accurate shelter records, leads community outreach and adoption events, and handles administrative functions including staff scheduling, performance management, inventory, and budgeting to support effective shelter operations. Reports to the Administration Police Lieutenant.
Essential Functions:- Supervise and support all animal care staff to ensure high-quality care and safe handling practices.
- Oversee daily animal care and sanitation, ensuring all animals receive proper nutrition, clean living environments, and attentive behavioral and health monitoring.
- Collaborate closely with veterinary professionals to guarantee appropriate medical treatment, preventative care, and follow-up for all animals.
- Ensure animals are properly medicated, vaccinated upon intake when needed, and continually monitored for changes in health or behavior.
- Conduct temperament assessments and evaluations for all incoming dogs, with support from Animal Care Technicians.
- Meet regularly with the Chief of Police or designee to ensure humane animal treatment, effective operations, and facility compliance.
- Ensure kennels, cages, and shelter equipment are cleaned and sanitized consistently and according to standards.
- Approve all animal adoptions and ensure adoption practices align with shelter policies and best practices.
- Determine when euthanasia is necessary, following established criteria and ethical guidelines, and carry out euthanasia procedures in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations; support and assist staff in performing euthanasia when required.
- Manage and maintain the shelter’s animal management software, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records.
- Organize and oversee animal adoption events to increase visibility and successful placements.
- Lead community outreach programs that promote the shelter’s mission, services, and educational initiatives.
- Schedule, organize, and conduct weekly staff meetings.
- Conduct quarterly performance reviews for all staff members, providing guidance, support, and corrective action when needed.
- Oversee hiring, onboarding, training, and continuous education for new and existing staff.
- Create and manage weekly employee schedules to ensure full operational coverage.
- Maintain accurate inventory levels and ensure necessary supplies are ordered and stocked.
- Track, record, and report all invoices, expenses, and operational costs in coordination with leadership.
Additional Functions:- Performs other duties as assigned.
Education and Experience:High School Diploma or its equivalent and two (2) years of experience in a job related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
Special Qualifications:Minimum of 21 years of age and requires a valid driver’s license.
Must complete a minimum of 5 continuing education hours annually to stay current with industry standards, best practices, and shelter management advancements.
Successful applicant must pass a psychological examination, drug test, a full driving and criminal background check, and polygraph examination. Preferred Qualifications:Veterinary Technician certification, Fear Free Certification, Animal Safety Handling Certification, or Wildlife Certification.
Minimum of two (2) years of kennel technician experience.
Minimum of two (2) years of management or supervisory experience.
Minimum of two (2) years of customer service experience.
Proficiency with computers, animal shelter software, or similar data-management systems.
