Animal Welfare Specialist

Position Purpose/Summary

Essential Functions

• Provides high quality customer service to the general public
• Treats the public in a courteous and respectful manner at all times; while assisting with adoption counseling, surrenders, receiving complaints and advice on general animal welfare issues – both in person and by phone.
• Examines all incoming animals – including administering vaccinations, heartworm and feline leukemia testing, micro-chipping, grooming procedures (nail trimming, ear cleaning, etc.), and daily medical treatments.
• Conducts adoption counseling sessions, surrenders, and Return To Owners.
• Receives reports of possible cruelty/neglect and gives advice on general animal welfare issues both in person and by phone.
• Participates in the euthanasia process in accordance with the policies and procedures as set forth by the Center.
• Arranges transfers of animals between organizations, monitors colonies of feral cats or stray populations, and secures resources for indigent clients that contact to TJO for assistance
• Makes arrangements for spay/neuter and other medical appointments
• Assists with animal emergencies and/or law enforcement cases as needed and directed by the Executive Director or Shelter Supervisor.
• Ensures all shelter animals are provided with the best possible care.
• Continually makes observations of each animal for signs of illness, injury, or behavioral deterioration.
• Cleans and disinfects kennels, cages, etc., and provides proper food, water, bedding, etc.
• Works with the computer program, Chameleon Software, and handles all necessary transactions.
• Adheres to systems, methods, and procedures in accordance with modern humane and business.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Advanced interpersonal skills to deal with conflict, highly emotional, and difficult clients.
• Ability to diffuse potentially aggressive or hostile behaviors in clients.
• Ability to work well and communicate effectively with the public and volunteers.
• Ability to work effectively and independently.
• Knowledge of animal handling skills.
• General knowledge of animal welfare issues.
• Ability to use shelter/rescue equipment safely and effectively.
• Knowledge of legal protocol n handling, administering, and logging controlled animal drugs.

Education and Experience

• Associates degree in a related field.
• Two years of related experience in animal welfare.

NOTICE: The following benefits are contingent upon hours worked and bargaining vs. non-bargaining agreements.

Medical/Dental/ Vision
75% City Subsidized
All health insurance plans include Dental and Vision

Retirement
Available to employees working 20 hours per week

Paid Vacation
Earned vacation time can be taken after 6 months of service. Earned time is accrued.

Paid Holidays
All City employees receive 11 paid holidays per year.

Paid Sick Time
Full time employees are immediately eligible to begin accruing 1 1/4 days per month which can be taken after 6 months of service. Supplemental Long Term and Short disability coverage is available to employees at the employee cost.

Paid Personal Days
Use up to 3 of your accrued sick days as Personal days. Personal days cannot be rolled over into the next calendar year.

Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
A means for eligible employees to balance work and family responsibilities by taking unpaid leave for authorized reasons.

Training
On the job and instructor led courses available

Employee Assistance Program
Free, confidential and personal assistance to employees and their families to resolve issues that affect their personal lives as well as job performance.

Direct Deposit
Easy, convenient, and free!