What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Care Specialist position at I Heart Dogs Rescue and Animal Haven?
This isn't just a job. It's kind of a calling.
If you're the type of person who stops to say hi to every dog you pass, gets personally invested in animals you've just met, and wants to spend your workday actually making a difference — we might be your people.
I Heart Dogs Rescue and Animal Haven is a nonprofit, no-kill rescue in Warren, MI, and we're looking for an Animal Care Specialist to join our team. We won't sugarcoat it — this job is physically and emotionally demanding. Some days will wipe you out completely. But for the right person, it's also the best job they've ever had!
If you're looking for something short-term or seasonal, this isn't it. If you're looking for somewhere you can really dig in and build something — we'd love to meet you.
What you'll actually be doing:
- Daily care for our dogs — feeding, watering, medicating, play groups, yard time, and a whole lot of love!
- Deep cleaning and sanitizing kennels and animal housing areas (yes, a LOT of cleaning!)
- Bathing and grooming
- Monitoring animal health and behavior and flagging anything that needs attention
- Helping potential adopters meet their future best friend
- Performing basic medical procedures like vaccinations and microchipping
- Keeping the whole facility clean and running smoothly
What we bring to the table:
- Bring Your Dog To Work Day is every day! — yes, really
- Free or discounted veterinary care for your personal pets
- 1.5x pay on holidays
- Your birthday off, paid
- Paid lunch breaks
- Paid sick time
- Work t-shirts and sweatshirts provided
- Non-slip shoes or boots provided
- Ongoing training and development
- Discounted adoption fees
- Eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
What we're looking for:
We'll be honest — we don't just hire for skills. We hire for vibe. We're a small, close-knit team who work hard, care deeply about the animals, and show up for each other just as much. We need people who consistently show up, dig in, and can still find something to laugh about at the end of a long, messy day.
- Prior hands-on experience with dogs (beyond your own) is required — vet clinics, boarding, doggy daycare, shelters, training centers, farms, zoos, and volunteer work all count
- Upbeat, team-oriented, and easy to work with — we spend a lot of hours together
- Able to multitask in a fast-paced environment and manage your time without someone looking over your shoulder
- Comfortable with dogs of any size, breed, or age
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs and stay on your feet for up to 8 hours
- High school diploma or GED required
- Reliable transportation and consistent attendance — this is non-negotiable!
- At least 1 year of stable employment history at a prior job
- Available to work weekdays, weekends, and some holidays; flexible schedule preferred
The details:
We are located at 9 Mile/Groesbeck Hwy in Warren, MI. Our facility runs 8:00 AM–8:30 PM every day. Available shifts are 8:00 AM–3:30 PM and 1:00–8:30 PM — we're looking for applicants who are available for both, not just day shifts. This is a part-time position (22–30 hours/week) with the potential to eventually grow into full-time. This position requires one weekend shift per week and some holidays.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $15.00 - $15.50 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person
Salary : $15 - $16