Job Details

This recruitment is to fill full-time and part-time positions.

Candidates given a conditional job offer will be required to pass a fingerprinting and background check prior to being hired.

Definition / Distinguishing Characteristics

Under supervision, perform a combination of kennel and animal care work along with significant public interaction. Employees in this classification perform a variety of semi-skilled tasks in the routine operation of an animal shelter including kennel cleaning and sanitation, animal care including assisting with medical care; handling livestock and cleaning corrals; working with volunteers and rescue groups; data entry, filing, and record keeping; assisting the public with locating lost animals and adoptions; selling dog licenses; processing payments and paperwork for adoptions and owners reclaiming animals; assisting with euthanasia; to perform related work as required.

Examples of Typical Job Functions (Illustrative Only)

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations where appropriate so qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

• Perform routine day-to-day tasks required for the general operations and maintenance of the animal shelter;
• Clean and disinfect animal enclosures, cages, equipment, walkways, and work areas, including vehicles and other equipment;
• Wash dishes and laundry;
• Feed and care for a variety of animals such as dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, reptiles, wildlife, and livestock;
• Assist with humane euthanasia and disposal of animals according to department protocols;
• Maintain detailed records and ensure security of federally controlled drugs in compliance with laws and regulations;
• Greet the public and answer phones courteously and promptly;
• Handle lost and found reports both over the phone and in person;
• Coordinate with police, park rangers, and other agencies for animal intake and release;
• Determine jurisdiction for accepting animals or selling licenses;
• Sell dog licenses to city residents;
• Guide the public to appropriate agencies/organizations;
• Provide shelter policy and procedure information;
• Advise on animal adoption and care;
• Accept relinquished or stray animals and place them appropriately;
• Transport animals to veterinary facilities or other shelters safely;
• Update records and logs accurately;
• Perform animal grooming and care, handle animals humanely under stress;
• Check for microchips to identify owners;
• Reclaim animals to owners;
• Assist with medical procedures like vaccinations and intake exams;
• Provide special care for animals requiring medication or treatment;
• Monitor shelter population for irregularities or disease symptoms;
• Identify and isolate dangerous or ill animals;
• Assess animal health and temperament upon arrival;
• Conduct daily safety and well-being inspections;
• Maintain shelter cleanliness and grounds;
• Assist with opening and closing the facility;
• Manage cash and daily deposits;
• Respond to disaster situations;
• Participate in animal behavior and enrichment programs;
• Operate office equipment;
• Scan and archive animal records;
• Use social media/email to match lost and found animals and contact owners;
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:

• Animal impounding and care practices, anatomy, breed identification, behavior, and first aid.

Ability to:

• Perform heavy manual labor;
• Understand and follow instructions;
• Establish cooperative relationships;
• Work courteously with the public under stress;
• Operate various office and shelter equipment;
• Identify common breeds and health symptoms;

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. Typically,:

Education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience: Demonstrated knowledge of animal husbandry; six months of experience in an animal-related facility is preferred.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Valid California Driver License;
• Ability to complete training on euthanasia and other responsibilities, including obtaining a certificate within 6 months if not already certified.

Physical Demands

Frequent standing, walking, climbing, stooping, kneeling, reaching, and handling animals weighing over 50 pounds. Ability to lift up to 100 pounds with assistance. Visual acuity for close, distance, color, and peripheral vision.

Environmental Conditions

Work predominantly in kennel environments with exposure to noise, animal waste, chemicals, zoonotic diseases, and adverse weather conditions.