Animal Care Specialist

Humane Fort Wayne•Fort Wayne, IN

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Responsive recruiter Benefits: 401(k) matching Employee discounts Health insurance Paid time off Why Join Humane Fort Wayne? Do you have a passion for animal welfare and enjoy making a difference every day? Humane Fort Wayne is looking for an Animal Care Specialist to provide compassionate care for shelter animals while supporting adoptions, enrichment, and daily shelter operations. In this hands-on role, you'll help ensure every animal receives the care, attention, and support they need on their journey to a loving home.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Valid driver's license.
Leadership or team training experience; shelter experience is a plus.
Previous animal handling experience preferred.
Strong communication, organization, and computer skills.
Ability to safely handle animals and recognize animal behavior.
Compassion, adaptability, and a commitment to Humane Fort Wayne's mission.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and lift 50+ pounds throughout the day.
Comfortable working in an active shelter environment with animals, cleaning products, and common allergens.

Nice To Haves

shelter experience is a plus
Previous animal handling experience preferred

Responsibilities

Monitor the health and behavior of shelter animals and report concerns to the medical team.
Assist with animal intakes, medical procedures, medication administration, and daily care.
Maintain accurate records using shelter management software.
Ensure kennels and animal spaces are clean, safe, and enriching throughout the day.
Perform behavior evaluations and document observations.
Support behavior modification plans, enrichment activities, and playgroups.
Assist with dog introductions, adoption meet-and-greets, and behavior support for adopters.
Prepare and distribute meals according to each animal's individual needs.
Monitor special diets, medications, and pre-surgical feeding requirements.
Help oversee volunteers assisting with feeding and daily care.
Create a welcoming experience for visitors and adopters.
Help families find the right pet by sharing information about each animal's personality and care needs.
Support adoption appointments and send-home processes.
Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary shelter environment.
Monitor supplies, assist with inventory, and report maintenance concerns.
Collaborate closely with medical, behavior, intake, adoption, and volunteer teams to provide exceptional animal care.