Animal Care Technician

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

• High School Diploma, GED or equivalent; with a strong preference for advanced education, associates or bachelor’s in a related field
• Possesses a current valid Driver License
• Previous animal handling experience preferred
• Able to work 10-hour shifts as assigned
• The ability to work standing for up to 8 – 10 hours at a time
• Follow all written and verbally communicated departmental standard operating procedures
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 35 + pounds repeatedly throughout the day as needed
• Must be able to walk dogs 50 + pounds
• Knowledge of basic medical intake needs or ability to learn
• Ability to handle excitable and/or fearful animals
• Experience utilizing Microsoft Outlook for email and calendar management
• High attention to detail proven through accuracy
• Highly-organized and efficient work practices (e.g. Seeks to proactively anticipate job related needs and to address them immediately.)
• Friendly and outgoing personality that communicates a positive attitude within and outside the workplace
• Flexible work schedule that will adjust for working nights and weekends as needed
• Ability to be reliable, responsible, timely and accountable
• Ability to follow instructions and stay on task to ensure the safety of animals, others and self
• Willingness to create and maintain a clean, healthy and safe shelter environment
• Ability to work independently and with others to foster a positive and healthy work environment
• Willingness to work with animals of any species, breed and size without prejudice
• Works effectively and respectfully with internal and external customers, including staff, co-workers, supervisors, volunteers, clients and the general public
• Ability to act with integrity and demonstrate commitment to and passion for Humane Society of West Michigan’s mission and values

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform daily cleaning of holding cages, crates and public areas; following proper disease control protocol to ensure the highest standard of cleanliness for all animals.
• Keep Animal Care Manager and Veterinary team informed of animal behavior and any health concerns.
• Stock all necessary cleaning supplies throughout the appropriate areas as needed.
• Spot clean kennels and public areas throughout the day.
• Keep laundry going throughout the day.
• Prepare clean mop buckets as needed.
• Wash and disinfect water bowls, food puzzles and toys daily.
• Communicate with the public on a regular or as needed basis in a professional manner.
• Rotate through other Animal Care positions as needed.
• Provide enrichment programs to shelter animals as planned.
• Walk dogs or take them out to the dog park.
• Communicate with and train volunteers on an as needed basis.
• Perform animal intakes (schedule appointments; provide information regarding animal intake; strays; owner surrenders; transfers; reclaims; returns; customer service, animal assessment, vaccination).
• Accurately and timely entering data into ShelterLuv and maintain electronic and written records regarding animals in the HSWM’s care.
• Perform and/or assist with humane euthanasia.
• Medicate, vaccinate, and perform blood draws on shelter animals as needed.
• Assist other areas of the shelter, including but not limited to admitting as necessary.
• Perform other duties as directed by the Animal Care Manager to meet the needs of the organization.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

HSWM Expectations of Employees

• Treat all animals and people humanely, with compassion, both on and off the job, and transmits these values to others
• Provide accurate information and courteous service to the public at all times
• Discretion with confidential and financial information
• Adhere to all state and local laws regarding personally owned animals

Work Environment

• May be exposed to unpleasant noises, odor and animal feces
• May be exposed to bites, scratches and zoonotic diseases

Physical Demands

• Work requires lifting and carrying animals and items that weigh up to 40 pounds. Will be assisted by other staff members with animals and items weighing over 40 pounds.
• Will be required to walk or stand for extended periods of time. Will frequently work in a bent position.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From $12.00 per hour

Expected hours: No more than 30 per week

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Experience:

• professional animal handling: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person