What are the responsibilities and job description for the Shelter Operations and Animal Care Manager position at Beyond Animal Sheltering?
OVERVIEW
No two days at Madison County Animal Services look the same. One morning might mean coordinating urgent medical care for a new intake, supporting a team member through a difficult adoption conversation, and working with Animal Control on an incoming transport, all before noon. We're looking for a leader who can meet that pace with steady judgment and genuine care.
The Shelter Operations and Animal Care Manager leads daily shelter operations and reports to the Executive Director. This is a hands-on leadership role with real ownership over how the shelter runs.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
- Oversee daily operations: intake, housing, feeding, sanitation, enrichment, and medical care coordination, ensuring animals receive humane care in line with policy, regulation, and welfare standards.
- Monitor facility cleanliness, safety, and workflow, and lead through urgent or crisis situations, whether an animal emergency, a staffing gap, or a public concern.
- Supervise and develop the animal care and facility team: schedules, coverage, coaching, and performance management, while building a culture of accountability, communication, and respect.
- Serve as a primary point of contact for adopters, the public, and partner agencies, supporting adoption coordination and resolving escalated situations professionally.
- Maintain accurate records for intakes, medical care, adoptions, transfers, and outcomes, and stay in compliance with shelter policy, applicable law, and reporting requirements.
- Coordinate closely with Animal Control Officers on intakes, field services, and handling needs.
- Identify operational trends or challenges and bring recommendations to leadership.
- Partner with the Executive Director on foster care coordination, volunteer engagement, and transport planning.
- Take part in decisions about animal outcomes, including euthanasia, offering operational insight and support to staff, and contribute to broader planning and continuous improvement efforts.
WHAT YOU BRING
- At least 3 years of leadership experience in animal care, sheltering, veterinary operations, or a related field.
- A demonstrated ability to supervise staff and maintain standards in a fast paced environment.
- Strong organizational, communication, and problem solving skills.
- The professionalism to navigate emotionally challenging situations with the public.
Nice to have: customer service experience strongly preferred, experience with shelter software, familiarity with municipal animal services, and knowledge of welfare regulations and basic veterinary care.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This role involves regular, hands-on interaction with animals, including those that are fearful, injured, or ill. Expect to lift animals and equipment, work around and with cleaning chemicals, and respond during emergencies or high demand periods. It is demanding work, and it is meaningful work: the kind that gives animals a second chance and gives a team a leader worth following.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Salary - $45,000-$52,000, dependent on experience.
Health Coverage - Up to $6,000 per year toward health, dental, and vision coverage through a QSEHRA.
PTO - Two weeks during your first two years, held in a single combined bank for vacation or sick time.
Holidays - Nine holidays.
TO APPLY: Email cover letter and resume to beyondanimalsheltering@gmail.com. Application deadline is August 31, 2026 and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Pay: $45,000.00 - $52,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Bereavement leave
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $45,000 - $52,000