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Shelter Operations Manager

City of Cookeville
Cookeville, TN Full Time
POSTED ON 1/17/2026 CLOSED ON 2/16/2026

What are the responsibilities and job description for the Shelter Operations Manager position at City of Cookeville?

 

ANIMAL SHELTER

Job description statements are: intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job title; not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required; and subject to change, as approved by the City Manager.

 

Job Summary:

Work is performed under the direct supervision of the Director in the completion of daily responsibilities.

Examples of work performed: Assists Director in providing for the effective and efficient daily operation of the Cookeville/Putnam County Animal Shelter; meets regularly with the Director to ensure the well-being and humane treatment of animals and the proper management of operations and facilities; assists Director in compiling and updating standard operating procedures; ensures that all animals are properly cared for and humanely and safely handled; ensures that cleaning and sanitation of kennels, cages, and equipment is completed on an on-going basis; ensures kennels/cages are available for incoming animals; supervises and provides support to kennel workers and volunteers; assigns daily tasks to kennel workers; conducts performance counseling and reviews for kennel workers; evaluates animals as candidates for adoption, rescue, foster care or euthanasia; accurately enters animal records in shelter software; reviews animal records for accuracy; schedules spay/neuter surgeries; arranges veterinary care for animals as needed; assists foster caregivers; assists with rescue placement of animals; assists with marketing adoptable animals; schedules medications and supplementary diets; addresses questions and concerns from the public; monitors shelter social media; performs or assists with euthanasia as required and in accordance with all laws regulating the use of drugs and equipment; assists with staff development through planned, recorded, staff meetings and informal meetings; provide coverage for emergencies by responding in accordance with Shelter procedures and animal welfare; perform regular facility and equipment inspections and communicate problems and needs to the Director; perform all duties of Kennel Worker II as needed including but not limited to: assisting the public, cleaning, feeding, vaccinating, medicating, transporting animals and supplies and assisting with crematory operations.

 

Required Knowledge and Abilities:

Knowledge of common animal health issues and basic veterinary terminology and procedures

Knowledge of cleaning and sanitation procedures for minimizing spread of infectious disease

Knowledge of laws pertaining to animal sheltering and animal control

Ability to ensure essential tasks are completed within a set time frame

Ability to remain calm and professional in emotional situations

Ability to quickly prioritize tasks in changing circumstances

Ability to handle animals in a humane manner in accordance with shelter regulations

Ability to work under adverse conditions including extremes of temperature, humidity, and odors

Ability to drive light duty vehicle

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing

Ability to work a flexible schedule

Ability to perform euthanasia of animals

Ability to follow oral and written instructions

Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with the public, co-workers and volunteers

 

Qualifications:

High School education or equivalent, and a valid Tennessee Drivers License are required. Certification for Euthanasia in the State of Tennessee or ability to obtain within six months of employment is required. Five years' experience in animal care with supervisory duties preferred.

 

Essential Functions:

Leads shelter staff in daily operations of animal shelter. Monitors and addresses health and behavior concerns in shelter population. Ensures a safe and welcoming environment for visitors. Works closely with veterinary community and Animal Control officers. Ability to use contemporary office devices including a computer, copier, telephone, etc. is required. Employee has frequent exposure to animal related hazards. High stress may occur due to making decisions regarding and performing euthanasia and frequent contact with emotional situations. The position requires regular physical activity including bending, twisting, climbing, lifting up to 50 pounds on a regular basis and up to 100 pounds occasionally.

 

Full Time Benefits Summary:

Medical
Dental
Vision
Paid Life Insurance
Health Savings Account
Flexible Spending Account
Voluntary Benefits
Pension and 401k Retirement Savings
Paid Holidays
Paid Sick time


City of Cookeville is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Hiring decisions are administered without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

 

Reasonable Accommodations:

Qualified individuals with known disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please contact the Human Resources department at (931) 520-5256.



Must be able to pass limited background check. 

Salary : $20 - $27

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