What are the responsibilities and job description for the Kennel Technician position at It Takes A Village, Inc?
Kennel Technician
Daviess County – It Takes A Village No-Kill Rescue
Position Summary
The Kennel Technician plays a vital role in ensuring the health, safety, cleanliness, and overall well-being of animals in the care of It Takes A Village No-Kill Rescue. This position is responsible for daily animal care, kennel sanitation, behavior observation, enrichment, and supporting adoption and medical operations.
Kennel Technicians must work efficiently in a fast-paced shelter environment while maintaining compassion, attention to detail, and a strong sense of teamwork.
Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesAnimal Care & Husbandry
- Feed and provide fresh water to all animals according to shelter protocols
- Walk dogs and provide exercise and enrichment opportunities
- Clean litter boxes and maintain appropriate cat housing
- Monitor animal appetite, behavior, stool, and overall condition
- Report illnesses, injuries, or behavioral concerns immediately to supervisors or medical staff
- Safely handle and restrain animals, including fearful, stressed, or aggressive animals when necessary
Cleaning & Sanitation
- Thoroughly clean and disinfect kennels, cages, runs, play yards, and common areas
- Perform daily laundry duties and sanitize dishes, bowls, and equipment
- Follow shelter disease prevention and biosecurity protocols
- Maintain overall cleanliness and organization throughout the facility
Shelter & Team Support
- Assist with animal movement, intake, and placement within the shelter
- Support veterinary and medical staff during treatments and procedures
- Assist with adoption meet-and-greets and interactions with the public
- Help prepare animals for transport, foster placement, or off-site events
- Complete assigned tasks efficiently while supporting overall shelter operations
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred
- Previous kennel, veterinary clinic, or animal shelter experience preferred
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to accept direction, follow instructions accurately, and receive constructive feedback professionally
- Compassionate attitude toward animals and people
Beneficial Skills & Experience
- General knowledge of animal health and welfare
- Experience with animal handling and behavior
- Prior animal shelter or rescue experience
- Familiarity with cleaning and sanitation protocols in animal care settings
Reports To:
- Kennel Manager
- Operations Manager
Key Performance Measures
- Overall health and welfare of shelter animals
- Facility cleanliness and sanitation
- Teamwork and communication
- Time management and efficiency
- Accountability and decision-making
Organizational CompetenciesTransparency & Integrity
- Acts honestly and consistently across situations
- Takes responsibility for actions and mistakes
Teamwork & Collaboration
- Maintains positive working relationships
- Contributes to a supportive and productive team environment
Innovation
- Identifies opportunities to improve processes and animal care practices
- Adapts methods to better meet organizational needs
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
This position is physically demanding and requires:
- Standing and walking for extended periods
- Frequent bending, kneeling, squatting, reaching, and lifting
- Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds regularly and occasionally more with assistance
- Exposure to animal waste, cleaning chemicals, loud noises, and potentially dangerous animals
- Working in varying temperatures and conditions
Schedule Requirements
- Must be available to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed
- Flexible scheduling may be required based on shelter needs
Disclaimer
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications required. Management reserves the right to modify duties or assign additional responsibilities as needed.
This document does not create an expressed or implied contract of employment and employment remains at-will.
Pay: From $10.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
Salary : $10