What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Care Specialist position at JEFFERSON COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY?
We are currently seeking an Animal Care Specialist to work within our county animal shelter location. This role performs routine animal care and related duties. The work involves cleaning and maintaining animal designated areas inside and outside the property of the facility, interacting with the public and other visitors to the shelter, handling incoming and current sheltered animals, and performing other related shelter duties. This employee will carry out daily assignments, follow through on matters, and use independent judgement and training to take appropriate actions to deal with standard recurring situations. Responsibilities will vary on the current needs of the shelter.
Responsibilities:
- Cleans kennels, cages, and other animal housing areas.
- Performs shelter duties including providing the proper amount of food/water, proper bedding and other care to animals brought to the shelter, washing laundry and dishes, and all necessary housekeeping duties.
- Assists in medical testing and treatments.
- Assists in temperament and behavior assessments as requested as well as performs prescribed socialization and training methods in handling the animals.
- Interacts with the public and assists volunteers, facilitates adoptions by answering questions, directs them to appropriate animals, etc.
- Works with volunteers; guiding them in their role, communicating with them, and answering their questions regarding a task or helping with an animal.
- Ensures proper inventory levels of food, and other supplies. Inform supervisor when reordering is necessary.
- Performs related shelter tasks as necessary.
Qualifications/Skills
- High school diploma or GED.
- Prior animal experience or knowledge of animal care is preferred but not required.
- Always maintains a professional attitude.
- Friendly communication with public/volunteers and staff.
- Handles animals safely and effectively.
- Follows all cleaning processes in the kennels and cages in an efficient manner.
- Development of animal handling skills as a result of on-the-job experience.
- Ability to work under high-stress environments and situations.
- Ability to follow directions.
Other Factors
- Workers are subject to working on weekends and holidays.
- Employees may have to work outside in a variety of weather conditions.
- Works with volunteers; guiding them in their role, communicating with them, and answering their questions regarding a task or helping with an animal.
Physical Requirements
- Standing for a long period of time.
- Walking for a long period of time.
- Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Climb step ladders and stairs.
- Bend, reach, hold, grasp, and turn objects.
License/Certificates
- Valid driver’s license.
Pay: $11.00 - $12.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $11 - $12