Demo

Animal Care Associate

Stray Hearts Animal Shelter
Taos, NM Full Time
POSTED ON 11/5/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 1/3/2026

JSUMMARY

The Animal Care Associate is responsible for maintaining the daily care of animals and housing areas as well as other areas of the Shelter facility. Ensure grounds are kept in a clean and sanitary condition. Assist the public by providing information on animal related problems/issues and also with adoptions, reclaims and surrender of animals. Treat animals and humans with the utmost respect and care. Reports to Animal Care Coordinator.

ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE

The Stray Hearts Animal Shelter is grounded in a culture of compassionate care, clinical excellence, and community service. Our team works collaboratively in a high-volume, mission-driven environment where every role is vital to the well-being of animals and the trust of the community we serve.

We prioritize respect, teamwork, and adaptability. Each team member is expected to approach their work with empathy, professionalism, and a shared commitment to reducing barriers to care. In our organization, culture means supporting one another through challenges, celebrating lifesaving wins, and continuously striving to improve how we serve both pets and people.

We welcome team members who lead with humility, teach with intention, and practice with heart.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Work collaboratively with across departments to cultivate a positive culture and team approach to fulfilling Stray Hearts mission
  • Clean and maintain SHAS facility including all cat and dog kennels.
  • Feed, care, and bathe animals
  • Assist in routine testing, treat shelter animals for external parasites, and vaccinate as needed
  • Provide excellent customer service at all times including answering phones in a professional manner
  • Assist the public during the surrender and intake process
  • Handle aspects of the adoption process and provide counseling as needed
  • Assist in the transport of animals to veterinarians as needed
  • Must be knowledgeable and in compliance with Stray Hearts Policies and Procedures, Personnel Guidelines and State and Federal laws
  • Notify supervisor of sickness or injury of animal or person in the facility, needed supplies, faulty equipment, and inappropriate behavior of visitors or volunteers
  • Other duties as assigned or as needed

Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED preferred but not required
  • Previous experience in a direct animal care facility preferred but not required
  • Previous customer service experience preferred
  • Able to meet background check requirements
  • Proven ability to multitask and prioritize in a busy and stressful environment
  • Positive attitude

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • High degree of mobility required
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. on a regular basis
  • Maintain a valid driver’s license in order to operate any Stray Hearts vehicles.
  • Frequent exposure and handling of animals
  • Work in a stressful and noisy environment

COMPENSATION

This is an hourly, non-exempt position, full- or part-time, $17/hour.

To apply, please fill out an really application

Stray Hearts Animal Shelter is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against candidates or employees based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, military status, veteran status, genetic history or any other protected status. Stray Hearts encourages all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $17.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17

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