Animal Care - Team Leads & Senior Associates
About The Position
At Patty Baker Humane Society Naples, every day is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of homeless animals. We're seeking experienced animal care professionals who are passionate about animal welfare, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and are ready to take on leadership responsibilities while remaining actively involved in the daily care of our shelter animals. Depending on your experience and qualifications, candidates may be considered for either our Animal Care Team Lead or Senior Animal Care Associate position. Both roles are hands-on leadership positions that combine exceptional animal care with team guidance, operational support, and a commitment to providing every animal with compassionate, fear-free care.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- Minimum six months of professional animal care experience in a shelter, veterinary clinic, kennel, rescue, or similar environment.
- Ability to safely handle dogs and cats of varying temperaments.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding work throughout the day.
- Basic computer proficiency.
- Reliable transportation.
- Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays.
- Consistent attendance and dependability.
Nice To Haves
- One or more years of animal care experience.
- Leadership, supervisory, mentoring, or shift leadership experience.
- Strong understanding of dog and cat behavior and body language.
- Experience facilitating dog playgroups or cat socialization.
- Experience training staff or volunteers.
- College coursework in animal science or a related field is a plus.
Responsibilities
- Provide guidance, direction, and support to Animal Care Associates throughout the day.
- Help ensure daily animal care tasks are completed safely, efficiently, and according to shelter protocols.
- Serve as a role model by demonstrating excellent animal handling, cleaning, enrichment, and customer service practices.
- Assist with onboarding and training new staff and volunteers
- Team Lead candidates will have ongoing supervisory responsibilities; Senior Animal Care Associates will regularly serve as Shift Lead when designated, directing daily operations and team activities.
- Feed, water, and provide daily husbandry for dogs, cats, and occasionally small animals.
- Clean and disinfect kennels, cages, cat rooms, yards, and other animal spaces.
- Maintain clean, organized animal care areas, laundry, dishes, and supplies.
- Monitor animal health and report concerns promptly.
- Administer medications and assist with medical treatments as directed.
- Transport animals to and from medical procedures and surgeries.
- Provide daily enrichment and socialization tailored to each animal's individual needs.
- Participate in dog playgroups, cat socialization, walks, training sessions, and behavioral enrichment.
- Observe animal behavior and document changes or concerns.
- Assist adopters and visitors with animal meet-and-greets.
- Help maintain accurate animal records and kennel signage.
Benefits
- Paid weekly.
- Paid time off and Holiday Pay
- Medical, dental, vision insurance
- Paid parental leave
- Retirement plan available, matching funds after 1 year
- Significant discounts on veterinary services
- Employee pet adoption benefits
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
