What are the responsibilities and job description for the Kennel Manager position at The Gold Leash?
Now Hiring: Kennel Managers – Join Our Growing Team at The Gold Leash!
We are restructuring our team and expanding our leadership—and we need experienced Kennel Managers ready to step in and lead.
Are you passionate about animals and confident managing a fast-paced kennel environment? The Gold Leash is looking for a reliable, skilled, and proactive Kennel Manager to help guide our team and maintain a safe, enriching environment for all dogs in our care.
Position: Kennel Manager – Full-Time or part time
Location: Carol Stream
Pay: Competitive hourly rate tip pool
What You’ll Do:
- Oversee all Back-of-House daily operations, including feeding, cleaning, sanitizing, and dog handling
- Lead, guide, and support Pet Techs during playgroups, room cleaning, and shift transitions
- Ensure the facility stays safe, organized, and running smoothly at all times
- Assist with medications, feeding schedules, kennel assignments, and accurate documentation
- Maintain strong communication with management and participate in daily briefings
- Support Front-of-House during peak check-in and check-out times as needed
What We’re Looking For (MUST-HAVES):
- Kennel experience: Prior experience working in a kennel or daycare setting
- Management/leadership experience: Ability to confidently lead staff, coach others, and manage workflow
- Dog handling experience: Skilled and comfortable working hands-on with dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments
Additional expectations include:
- Calm, proactive, and team-driven leadership style
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established protocols
- Physically active and comfortable in a fast-paced environment
- Reliable, punctual, and professional
- Availability to work weekends and holidays as needed (we are open 365 days per year, 5 AM–8 PM)
Perks & Benefits:
- Tip pool
- Free 10-day daycare package every quarter
- 20% staff discounts on services and retail
- 40 hours PTO
- 25% company contribution to BCBS Insurance - Full time only.
- Monthly Bonus opportunity
- Room for growth within a supportive, animal-loving team
Ready to turn your experience into leadership?
Apply today and help us continue offering the exceptional care every pet deserves.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- On-the-job training
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid time off
Application Question(s):
- Why would you like to work for The Gold Leash?
- Do you have experience in working with dogs in a kennel setting?
- How many hours a week are you looking for?
- How soon can you start?
- Are you comfortable working any shift between 5:00 AM and 8:00 PM
- What does your availability look like?
Experience:
- Manager: 1 year (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Carol Stream, IL 60188 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Carol Stream, IL 60188: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $17 - $20