Animal Care Techinician

Animal Protection Society of Durham•Durham, NC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Animal Protection Society of Durham (APS) is seeking full-time Animal Care Technicians to join its Animal Care team in Durham, North Carolina. This hands-on role provides daily care and enrichment for dogs, cats, and other shelter animals, while helping maintain a clean, healthy environment for animals awaiting homes. The position is 40 hours per week and pays $16–$19 per hour. Animal Care Technicians contribute to shelter operations by feeding and caring for animals, monitoring their wellbeing, assisting with intake and safe transfers, and maintaining shelter sanitation and supplies. They also support other departments as needed. APS describes its team as dedicated to compassionate care, collaboration, and positive outcomes for animals and the community.

Requirements

Compassion for animals and the people who care for them.
Dependability, a strong work ethic, and willingness to help wherever needed.
Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness.
Ability to communicate effectively with teammates.
Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
Comfort working around animals of varying sizes, breeds, temperaments, and medical conditions.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds independently and up to 75 pounds with assistance.
Ability to stand, bend, kneel, walk, and work on your feet for extended periods.
Ability to work in varying temperatures and around cleaning chemicals, animal dander, noise, and occasional unpleasant odors.
Comfort working with animals that may be frightened, stressed, sick, or injured.
Basic computer skills and willingness to learn shelter software.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in an animal shelter, veterinary clinic, boarding facility, kennel, daycare, farm, or rescue organization.
Experience safely handling dogs and cats.
Knowledge of Fear Free or low-stress animal handling practices.
Experience administering vaccines or medications; helpful but not required.
High school diploma or GED preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide compassionate daily care for dogs, cats, and other shelter animals.
Clean and disinfect kennels, cages, and animal housing areas according to established shelter protocols.
Feed animals and ensure fresh water is available.
Observe animals and promptly report medical or behavioral concerns.
Assist with animal intake, including vaccinations and safely moving animals throughout the shelter.
Help unload Animal Services vehicles and safely transfer incoming animals.
Maintain laundry, dishes, and other shelter sanitation needs.
Stock food, supplies, and equipment throughout the shelter.
Assist with enrichment activities and provide positive interactions with animals when possible.
Support other departments as needed to help ensure excellent animal care.