What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Animal Care Associate position at Ten Lives Club?
Lead Animal Care Associate
Ten Lives Club – Blasdell, NY
Must LOVE (or really like!) Cats! Ten Lives Club is a nonprofit cat rescue based in Western New York, dedicated to our mission to promote, further, and enhance all cat life. With the support of our dedicated staff, volunteers, and community, we provide care for over 300 cats at any given time, including those in foster homes. From medical treatment to daily care and enrichment, our work is entirely supported by donations and driven by a shared passion for giving every cat a second chance.
Ten Lives Club is seeking a full-time Lead Animal Care Associate to join our team at our main shelter in Blasdell. This hands-on leadership role offers full-time hours, including weekend shifts, and plays a key role in overseeing daily operations and animal care.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Supervision
- Oversee daily operations of animal care staff and volunteers
- Supervise, delegate tasks, and ensure completion of daily responsibilities
- Train and onboard new staff and volunteers on shelter procedures and protocols
- Provide ongoing coaching, guidance, and performance feedback
- Foster a positive, team-oriented work environment
- Assist with scheduling and coverage as needed
Animal Care & Welfare
- Ensure all cats receive proper daily care including feeding, cleaning, and enrichment
- Monitor animal health and behavior; report concerns promptly to veterinary staff
- Work with behaviorally challenged cats using appropriate handling techniques
- Ensure proper intake, quarantine, and placement procedures are followed
Enrichment & Volunteer Coordination
- Work directly with enrichment volunteers to support daily enrichment needs for cats
- Guide volunteers on appropriate handling, socialization, and behavior techniques
- Ensure each cat receives adequate daily enrichment to support mental and emotional well-being
- Identify cats in need of additional behavioral support and adjust enrichment plans accordingly
- Serve as a point of contact for enrichment volunteers, providing direction and support
Shelter Operations
- Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary shelter environment
- Oversee kennel cleaning, laundry, and overall facility upkeep
- Ensure proper chemical handling and safety protocols are followed
- Manage organization and labeling of supplies and materials
- Assist with inventory management and restocking donations
Compliance & Documentation
- Ensure compliance with NYS Companion Animal Standards of Care Act (CASCA)
- Maintain accurate records, including kennel cards and Shelterluv documentation
- Support implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Ensure all staff and volunteers follow established policies and procedures
Communication & Support
- Communicate effectively with staff, volunteers, leadership, and veterinary team
- Assist with adopters and visitors as needed
Qualifications
- At least 6 months of prior leadership or supervisory experience required.
- High School Diploma or GED
- 2-3 years of experience in animal care (shelter, rescue, vet clinic, boarding, etc.)
- Experience working with cats of all temperaments (friendly, shy, semi-feral, medical cases)
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Salary:
Starting at $17.50 per hour, based on experience
Shift Schedule:
Flexible Scheduling – Wednesdays & Sundays required
Benefits:
- 8 paid holidays
- PTO Days
- Paid vacation after 1 year
- Generous pet adoption and pet care discounts
Ten Lives Club, Inc.,
3741 Lake Short Road, Blasdell, NY 14219
WE ARE A DRUG-FREE, SMOKE-FREE, EQUAL Opportunity Employer
Company Policy & Federal & State Laws Forbid Discrimination
Because of Age, Color, Race, Religion, Sex, Disability, Sexual Orientation or National Origin
Pay: From $17.50 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18