Animal Care Associate Lead

Description

Job Summary:

The Humane Society of Ventura County (HSVC) is a compassionate care shelter and nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection and adoption of animals in need throughout Ventura County. Our mission statement is, “the Humane Society of Ventura County, through shelter, adoptions, programs, and services, boldly ensures the welfare of animals and Ventura County.” 

 Animal Care Associate Leads are responsible for providing high quality care to the animals within HSVC. They will oversee and perform specialized work in providing care for animals in the shelter, including feeding and caring for animals, socializing the animals, maintaining clean and sanitary conditions, treating and medicating animals, maintaining records, and providing customer service. They will assist in the adoption process to help match pets with their new forever homes while maintaining a courteous and professional attitude.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform and oversee daily cleaning and disinfection of all indoor and outdoor animal areas as well as items including bedding, dishes, and enrichment items while following disease transmission prevention protocols.
• Coordinate and/or perform all intake procedures for incoming animals (owner surrender and transfer) and ensure an efficient pathway flow toward adoption availability.
• Ensure the animal care staff complete their daily cleaning, feeding, medicating, observation logs, and other direct animal care duties as assigned in a timely and effective manner.
• Supervise and train a team of approximately ten employees.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary environment.
• Observe animals to detect illnesses and injuries and notify the Animal Care Management.
• Assist the public in finding a compatible pet.
• Assist in animal intake and cage transfers.
• Feed and water all animals according to schedules and administer medications when needed.
• Rotate all dogs throughout the day to the exercise yards using proper kennel technique for handing.
• Transfer animals to and from the clinic and assist with medical intakes.
• Keep kennels clean throughout the day.
• Bathe and groom animals as required.
• Follow procedures to keep our animals comfortable in inclement weather.
• Inspect cages, pens and grounds for cleanliness and structural defects.
• Restock supplies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• General knowledge of, and genuine compassion for, domestic animals and wildlife.
• At least two years of experience in animal care services (shelters, vet clinics, boarding facilities, etc.).
• Understanding of disease prevention and cleaning protocols in an animal care setting.
• Strong interpersonal skills; works well and communicates effectively with the general public, other staff members and volunteers
• Flexible; capable of working both independently and as a member of a team.
• Accurately comprehends and interprets written and verbal instruction and procedures.
• Works effectively under pressure and effectively prioritize a variety of tasks.
• Ability to work weekends and holidays as needed.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to bend, stoop, stretch, stand, walk, run, and extend arms above the shoulder.
• Able to lift and/or carry animals and materials weighing at least 50 pounds.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, rain, and cold.
• Prolonged periods of standing, bending, sitting, walking.
• Must be able to traverse irregular terrain.
• May work inside in a temperature-controlled environment.
• Work near, around, with animals.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and some holidays.

Working Conditions:

Combination of indoor and outdoor environment. Environment may include exposure to: chemicals used for cleaning and medical purposes, noises, odors, pet dander, and animals (including those with uncertain dispositions). Protective gear is required when appropriate (ear plugs, safety glasses, etc.). Varied schedule, work on weekends and/or holidays may be required.