What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Resources Outreach Specialist position at Montgomery County, OH?
Position Overview
Professional level position responsible for coordinating and organizing four (4) critical shelter functions: the Volunteer Program, Foster Program, Rescue Partnerships, and Community Engagement events. Serves as the primary liaison with external partners for the preparation, planning and execution of events and programs.
Collaborates with the Director and supervisory staff to ensure appropriate allocation of volunteer staffing and resources to support daily operations and outreach initiatives. A strong ability to interpret animal body language, along with expertise in safe handling, restraint techniques, and animal care practices is essential. Ensures the health and safety of Montgomery County through extensive use of investigative, problem solving, prevention, and mitigation strategies to keep pets and people together. May supervise volunteers.
Summary of Job Duties
Coordinates and supervises volunteer training and foster training, as well as related work assignments. Conducts follow-up discussions and/or training sessions with volunteers to support their success. Organizes, communicates with, and follows up with potential foster caregivers regarding specific dogs in need. Serves as primary point of contact for foster caregivers, providing support related to supplies, training, and assistance with specific medical or behavioral needs. Communicates and collaborates with the ARC Clinic team regarding the medical and behavioral needs of individual dogs. Collaborates with various ARC work groups to identify needs and facilitate volunteer assistance (i.e., volunteer roles, policies, standard operating procedures, etc.). Serves as the primary point of contact for Rescue partners, managing sign-ups, required documentation, orientation to ARC policies and procedures, and communication regarding specific dogs in need.
Organizes special events and serves as a liaison with external partners, overseeing all aspects of preparation, planning, and implementation. Collaborates with Director and leadership team to secure appropriate space and staffing resources to effectively prepare for and facilitate events such as adoption events, community meetings, and volunteer recognition events. Requests and purchases event supplies as needed. Supervises volunteers and assigns work during events.
Develops communications, talking points, and presentations on various topics related to the Animal Resource Center. Supports public outreach, social media and marketing initiatives to enhance the shelters’ public image and brand awareness (e.g., staffing information tables at events, presenting to service clubs, engaging with community members, and promoting events and programs).
Completes and maintains statistical reports and paperwork in accordance with ARC procedures. Enters information into shelter’s computer database to capture canine behavioral observations, rescue/foster contact attempts, pet reunification efforts, health concerns, and other processes within established time frames. Retrieves information on computer using various software systems (e.g., animal records). Assists with general office operations by engaging with Montgomery County residents, partners, and stakeholders to gather information, assess needs, and provide appropriate services. May assist with pet reunification by tracing identification tags, searching databases systems, and contacting potential leads. Remains empathetic, non-judgmental and professional in all interactions, using de-escalation techniques and persuasive communication to support pet owners
Assists with the care of sheltered animals, including cleaning and disinfecting cages, selecting animals for adoption, foster, or rescue, and assisting veterinarians with examinations. Administers vaccines and medications, transports animals to events, and operates county vehicle, as needed. Uses equipment such as portable two-way radios, microchip scanner, and computer terminals to locate and manage information.
(Performs Related Duties as Required)
Minimum Qualifications and Requirements
Completion of high school diploma; ability to read and write common vocabulary, one (1) year of experience in animal care. Two (2) years of experience coordinating events, supervising employees or coordinating volunteers. One (1) year of experience in animal care is preferred; OR alternative, equivalent evidence of the minimum class requirements.
Supplemental Information
Training and Development:
