What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Care Specialist position at Humane Society of Henderson, KY?
Job Summary
Henderson Humane is seeking a dedicated Part-Time Animal Care Specialists to support the daily care, health, and wellbeing of shelter animals. Our Animal Care Specialists are the heartbeat of daily shelter operations.
This role goes far beyond cleaning kennels—it is hands-on, compassionate work that directly impacts the health, behavior, and adoptability of every animal in our care. From maintaining a clean and safe environment to providing enrichment, monitoring wellbeing, and supporting adoptions, this position plays a critical role in helping animals move from shelter to home.
If you are passionate about animal welfare, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and aren’t afraid of hard work, this is an incredibly rewarding opportunity to make a difference every single day.
Compensation & Growth
Starting pay: $12.00/hour; $0.50 raise every 90 days based on:
- Reliable attendance
- Adherence to shelter protocols
Opportunity to reach $14.00/hour within the first year
What We’re Looking For
- A strong work ethic and willingness to do hands-on cleaning every day
- Compassion for animals and commitment to their wellbeing
- Ability to recognize changes in animal behavior or health
- Team-oriented mindset with a positive attitude
- Able to work weekends, holidays, and in all weather conditions
Why This Role Matters
- Every clean kennel prevents illness.
- Every enrichment activity reduces stress.
- Every interaction increases the chance of adoption.
This role doesn’t just care for animals—it changes their outcome.
Key Responsibilities
- Daily cleaning and sanitizing of kennels and animal areas
- Feeding and watering of animals
- Monitoring animal health and behavior
- Providing enrichment and socialization activities
- Rotating care between dog and cat areas, as needed
- Assisting with meet-and-greets and adoptions
- Laundry, dishes, and general facility upkeep
- Supporting overall shelter operations as needed
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Strong work ethic and reliability
- Compassion for animals and attention to detail
- Ability to follow cleaning and care protocols
- Availability to work weekends and holidays
- Strong animal handling skills with the ability to work confidently with pets of diverse temperaments
- Excellent communication skills for interacting with clients and team members effectively
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks such as lifting animals or standing for extended periods
Work Environment
This is a fast-paced, hands-on role that involves exposure to cleaning chemicals, animal waste, noise, and varying conditions. Candidates should be comfortable in an active shelter setting.
Why Join Us
Animal Care Specialists play a direct role in improving the health, behavior, and adoptability of animals in our care. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day.
“This Job Isn’t Easy. But It Changes Lives.”
Pay: From $12.00 per hour
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Application Question(s):
- Are you at least 18 years of age?
Work Location: In person
Salary : $12 - $14