Annual Pay Range: $56,654 - $66,047

This salary range reflects Washington County's competitive labor market, regional cost‑of‑living, and the supervisory and operational responsibilities associated with managing a municipal animal shelter within a police department structure. The range aligns with compensation levels offered by comparable Utah agencies and positions Washington City to effectively recruit and retain a qualified Shelter Manager with experience in animal care operations, staff supervision, and public‑facing service delivery.

Animal Services Shelter Manager

Washington City Police Department Job Description

Position Overview

The Animal Services Shelter Manager oversees daily operations, staff, and strategic direction for the Washington City Animal Shelter, which operates under the Washington City Police Department. This position ensures the humane care, safety, and well‑being of all sheltered animals while supporting public safety, community engagement, and compliance with state and local regulations. The manager provides leadership, develops operational policies, and fosters a compassionate, professional environment that reflects the department's and the community's values.

Key Responsibilities

Shelter Operations & Animal Care

• Directs and oversees daily shelter operations, ensuring high standards of animal care, cleanliness, and safety.
• Develops and implements protocols for intake, assessment, medical care coordination, quarantine, adoption, and euthanasia (when required by law or medical necessity).
• Ensures compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and best practices related to animal welfare and shelter management.
• Coordinates veterinary services, vaccinations, spay/neuter programs, and medical treatment plans.

Leadership & Staff Management

• Supervises, trains, schedules, and evaluates Animal Services Officers, shelter technicians, volunteers, and support staff.
• Promotes a culture of professionalism, compassion, accountability, and teamwork.
• Provides ongoing coaching and development to ensure staff are equipped to handle both animal care and public interactions effectively.
• Oversees onboarding and continuing education for shelter personnel.

Community Engagement & Public Service

• Serves as a primary point of contact for the public regarding shelter operations, lost/found animals, adoptions, and animal welfare concerns.
• Develops and supports community outreach programs, adoption events, and educational initiatives.
• Builds strong relationships with rescue groups, veterinary partners, and regional animal welfare organizations.
• Represents the shelter and department in public meetings, community events, and interagency collaborations.

Administrative & Strategic Management

• Manages shelter budget, purchasing, inventory, and resource allocation.
• Tracks and analyzes operational data, including intake numbers, adoption rates, medical outcomes, and staffing needs.
• Prepares reports, policy recommendations, and strategic plans for department leadership.
• Ensures accurate documentation, case files, and records management in accordance with department standards.
• Assists in developing and updating policies, procedures, and emergency response plans related to animal services.

Public Safety & Enforcement Support

• Collaborates with Animal Control Officers and Police Department leadership on enforcement of animal-related ordinances.
• Supports investigations involving animal cruelty, dangerous animals, and public safety concerns.
• Ensures staff are trained in safe handling, de-escalation, and humane capture techniques.

Qualifications

Required

• Experience in animal shelter operations, veterinary support, animal control, or related field.
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience.
• Strong knowledge of animal behavior, welfare standards, and shelter best practices.
• Excellent communication, conflict resolution, and customer service skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, emotionally challenging environment with professionalism and empathy.
• Valid driver's license and ability to meet department background standards.

Preferred

• Certification in Animal Shelter Management, Animal Control, or related professional training.
• Experience working within a law enforcement or municipal government environment.
• Knowledge of Utah state animal welfare laws and municipal code.

Work Environment

• Work involves exposure to animals of varying temperament, noise, odors, and potentially stressful situations.
• Requires lifting, handling, and restraining animals.
• May require weekend, holiday, or on-call work depending on operational needs.

Impact of the Role

The Animal Services Shelter Manager plays a critical role in advancing the department's mission of public safety, humane treatment of animals, and community trust. This position ensures that Washington City's shelter operates with compassion, efficiency, and integrity, reflecting the values of the Washington City Police Department and the community it serves.

As per Washington City policy and/or procedures, a background check, and drug screening evaluation will be required for potential new hire candidates prior to an offer of employment. I understand that if I am under the age of 18, I must have my parent or my legal guardian grant their permission for the background check and drug screening test to be performed.

Salary : $56,654 - $66,047