ANIMAL CARE ASSOCIATE

Anti-Cruelty•Chicago, IL

7d•$18 - $20

About The Position

The Animal Care Associate provides daily care to shelter animals under the direct supervision of the Operations Manager, Shelter Care. The role helps maintain a safe, sanitary, and low-stress environment according to established protocols and best practices. It supports consistent husbandry, enrichment, and monitoring, as well as positive experiences for adopters, volunteers, and staff. The position is guided by the PETS Work Culture Agreement: Praise, Engagement, Trust, and Support.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Ability to work independently and efficiently with minimal supervision.
Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Ability to multitask while providing quality care in a fast-paced, high-volume setting.
Effective communication skills.
Ability to maintain a neat and professional appearance.
Compassion and empathy for animals and owners.
Comfort handling animals and making sound decisions based on safety.
Ability to remain calm in busy or stressful situations.
Ability to manage the emotional aspects of animal welfare work in a positive, professional manner.
Ability to work in all weather conditions and around all companion animals.
Ability to remain on feet for long periods, lift up to 40 pounds, and frequently bend, stoop, and reach.
Comfort working with cats, dogs, small animals, reptiles, fish, and wildlife.
May be exposed to deceased, fractious, or aggressive animals; hostile or irate people; zoonotic or other diseases; unpleasant noises, odors, or sights; and extreme temperatures.

Nice To Haves

One year of previous experience in an animal-related field is preferred.

Responsibilities

Uphold the PETS Work Culture Agreement.
Follow Fear Free and Low-Stress Handling practices.
Provide daily animal care, including feeding, watering, cleaning, and health monitoring.
Perform routine cleaning and disinfection according to established protocols.
Provide basic enrichment and exercise to reduce animal stress.
Observe and promptly report health or behavior concerns.
Safely handle animals and seek assistance when needed.
Maintain clean, safe, and secure animal housing areas.
Assist with adoption support by engaging with adopters, sharing basic animal information, and supporting post-adoption follow-up.
Capture photos and videos and assist with animal profiles as needed.
Maintain a clean and organized work environment.
Support volunteers and new staff through guidance and modeling.
Attend required meetings and trainings.
Perform other duties as assigned.