Kennel Manager

Kennel Manager

Reports To: Director of Operations

Starting Salary: $42,000–$45,000

Why Join Us?

At the Humane Society for Hamilton County (HSHC), caring for animals isn’t just work—it’s a calling. Our state-of-the-art facility and nationally recognized No-Kill Philosophy set us apart, but what really makes this place special is the team of people who show up every day determined to change lives.

We’ll be straight with you: this is not a sit-behind-the-desk kind of role. The Kennel Manager is a boots-on-the-ground leader who ensures the wellbeing of every animal in our care—dogs, cats, and beyond. You’ll juggle operations, people management, emergency decisions, and a facility that never sleeps. When things get messy (and they will), your leadership keeps the team grounded and the animals safe.

If you’re looking for a career that’s equal parts rewarding and relentless, where your leadership can literally save lives, keep reading.

The Role

The Kennel Manager oversees the daily operations of the Kennel Department and supports other departments as needed. You’ll train, coach, and inspire your team to provide exceptional animal care, guide them through tough situations, and hold them accountable to the high standards HSHC is known for. You’ll also open and close the shelter, manage resources, and at times be responsible for the entire facility.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the Kennel Department to ensure every animal receives compassionate care, every day.
• Train and hold staff accountable to HSHC’s standards for safe animal handling, disease prevention, and cleaning protocols.
• Manage schedules, performance reviews, and corrective actions with fairness and professionalism.
• Coordinate with volunteers and other departments to create a seamless operation.
• Communicate daily with leadership about animal care, staffing, and facility needs.
• Ensure accurate recordkeeping in PetPoint and oversee intakes, adoptions, and behavior assessments.
• Participate in the after-hours emergency phone rotation to support foster families and Animal Control Officers.
• Open and close the shelter as assigned; step in as the manager responsible for the entire shelter when needed.
• Monitor supplies, manage budgets, and keep our animals and staff equipped for success.
• Support the cattery and other departments as necessary.

What We’re Looking For

• A leader with proven experience managing staff in animal care or shelter operations (boarding facility, vet clinic, daycare, etc.).
• Strong knowledge of animal behavior, handling, and training—especially with stressed or fearful animals.
• A team builder who can motivate, coach, and correct with fairness and diplomacy.
• A problem-solver who thrives under pressure and keeps operations moving smoothly.
• Comfort working with volunteers and the public in adoption and advocacy settings.
• Pride in maintaining clean, safe, healthy animal housing.
• Tech-savvy with Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and PetPoint (or similar systems).
• A commitment to HSHC’s No-Kill Philosophy and a passion for animal welfare.

What Success Looks Like

You know you’re succeeding in this role when:

• Your team runs like a well-coached unit—everyone knows their role, communicates clearly, and steps up for each other.
• The shelter feels like a safe haven: animals are cared for, staff feel supported, and adopters leave with confidence.
• Problems don’t linger—you see them, fix them, and prevent them from happening again.
• You can balance compassion with accountability, never losing sight of the mission.

Schedule & Commitment

• Full-time, 5 days per week (including some weekends and special events).
• Participation in emergency after-hours rotation.

If you’re ready to lead from the front, tackle tough challenges, and make a measurable impact on animals and people every single day, apply today. This is more than a job—it’s a chance to leave a legacy.

To apply: please send your resume, cover letter, and salary expectations to humanresources@hamiltonhumane.com