What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Caretaker position at Neenah Animal Shelter?
Animal Caretaker – The Neenah Animal Shelter
General Purpose:
Assist the Shelter Coordinator and Assistant Shelter Coordinator in the daily operation of the animal shelter in accordance with the directives and guidelines set by the Shelter Coordinator and the Neenah Animal Shelter (NAS) Board of Directors. Provide a clean, healthy, and humane environment for the animal residents for as long as they are in the care of NAS.
Relationships:
The Animal Caretaker reports directly to the Shelter Manager and Assistant Shelter Manager. This position works closely with all shelter staff and volunteers and will do their best to help create and maintain a positive work environment that encourages teamwork.
We are looking for a compassionate, reliable Animal Caretaker to join our team! This position plays a key role in ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of the animals in our care, as well as supporting the smooth daily operations of our shelter.
Responsibilities include:
- Feeding, cleaning, and providing daily care for cats and dogs
- Administering medications as directed
- Ensuring animals receive proper enrichment and exercise
- Maintaining a clean, safe, and sanitary environment
- Assisting with reception duties: answering phones, greeting visitors, and providing information
- Guiding, training, and supporting volunteers
- Observing animal behavior, identifying concerns, and reporting issues or complaints to management
- Assisting with adoptions and helping match animals with potential families
- Driving animals to and from veterinary appointments using a company vehicle
- Working cooperatively with the shelter team to provide excellent animal care and customer service
Requirements:
- Previous professional experience working with animals (animal shelter, kennel, veterinary clinic, daycare, etc.) – experience with personal pets does not qualify
- Strong animal handling skills and ability to read body language and behavior cues
- Ability to follow detailed instructions and shelter protocols
- Valid driver’s license (required for use of company vehicle)
- Flexibility to work some weekends and holidays as needed
- Team-oriented attitude, reliability, and strong communication skills
Physical & Working Conditions:
- Constant lifting and carrying (approximately 50 lb. bags)
- Daily bending, stooping, and walking throughout an 8-hour shift
- Occasional sitting
- Working in constantly changing weather conditions
- Handling and using sanitary cleaning chemicals
Benefits:
- Paid Time Off (PTO) for full-time employees
- Discount at a local veterinary clinic for personal pets
- Ability to purchase select animal care items for personal pets at cost
- Reduced adoption fees for personal adoptions
Preferred qualities:
- Experience with both cats and dogs of varying temperaments
- Comfort with a fast-paced environment and multitasking
- Passion for animal welfare and positive public interaction
If you are enthusiastic about helping animals find their forever homes and want to be part of a supportive, dedicated team, we’d love to hear from you!
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: $13.50 - $14.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
Salary : $14 - $14