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Animal Care

Humane Society of West Michigan
Grand Rapids, MI Full Time
POSTED ON 3/25/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/24/2026

Humane Society of West Michigan (HSWM) is looking for individuals that have a passion for animals and want to make a difference in West Michigan!

Some job qualifications and responsibilities listed below:

JOB SCHEDULE: 7:00am - 5:30pm three days each week

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

  • High School Diploma, GED or equivalent
  • Previous animal handling experience preferred
  • Able to work 10-hour shifts as assigned
  • Follow all written and verbally communicated departmental standard operating procedures
  • High attention to detail proven through accuracy
  • Highly-organized and efficient work practices (e.g. Seeks to proactively anticipate job related needs and to address them immediately.)
  • Friendly and outgoing personality that communicates a positive attitude within and outside the workplace
  • Flexibility in work schedule that will adjust for working nights and weekends as needed
  • Ability to be reliable, responsible, timely and accountable
  • Willingness to create and maintain a clean, healthy and safe shelter environment
  • Ability to work independently and with others
  • Willingness to work with animals of any species, breed and size without prejudice
  • Work effectively and respectfully with internal and external customers, including staff, co-workers, supervisors, volunteers, clients and the general public
  • Ability to act with integrity and demonstrate commitment to and passion for HSWM’s mission and values

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Perform daily cleaning of holding cages, crates and public areas; following proper disease control protocol to ensure the highest standard of cleanliness for all animals.
  • Keep Animal Care Manager and Veterinary team informed of animal behavior and any health concerns.
  • Stock all necessary cleaning supplies throughout the appropriate areas as needed.
  • Wash and disinfect water bowls, food puzzles and toys daily.
  • Communicate with the public on a regular or as needed basis in a professional manner.
  • Rotate through other animal care positions as needed.
  • Provide enrichment programs to shelter animals as planned.
  • Walk dogs or take them out to the dog park.
  • Assist other areas of the shelter, including but not limited to admitting as necessary.
  • Perform animal intakes (schedule appointments; provide information regarding animal intake; strays; owner surrenders; transfers; reclaims; returns; customer service, animal assessment, vaccination).
  • Medicate, vaccinate, and perform blood draws on shelter animals as needed.
  • Accurately and timely entering data into ShelterLuv and maintain electronic and written records regarding animals in the HSWM’s care.
  • Perform other duties as directed by the Animal Care Manager to meet the needs of the organization.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

HSWM Expectations of Employees

  • Treat all animals and people humanely, with compassion, both on and off the job, and transmits these values to others
  • Provide accurate information and courteous service to the public at all times
  • Discretion with confidential and financial information
  • Adhere to all state and local laws regarding personally owned animals

Work Environment

  • May be exposed to unpleasant noises, odor and animal feces
  • May be exposed to bites, scratches and zoonotic diseases

Physical Demands

  • Work requires lifting and carrying animals and items that weigh up to 40 pounds. Will be assisted by other staff members with animals and items weighing over 40 pounds.
  • Will be required to walk or stand for extended periods of time. Will frequently work in a bent position.

So, come join our team of enthusiastic animal welfare advocates and make a difference in your community each day!

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From $13.75 per hour

Benefits:

  • Employee discount
  • Paid time off

Ability to Commute:

  • Grand Rapids, MI 49534 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $14

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