Animal Care Technician

County of St. Clair•St. Clair County Animal Control Office, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This is an entry-level position focused on the general custodian duties and the care of animals within the Animal Shelter. The role involves working varying schedules, including weekdays, weekends, and holidays, as needed. The primary responsibilities include ensuring animals are fed, watered, and administered medications, as well as cleaning and disinfecting all areas of the shelter. The position also involves accepting delivered animals, preparing records, administering intake shots, and identifying kennels. Observation and recording of animal behavior, especially in quarantine or recovery, is also part of the role. Minor maintenance tasks, groundskeeping, and operating cleaning equipment are also expected. The role requires the ability to handle animals safely and a willingness to learn about animal care. A background check, valid Michigan Driver's License, and LEIN background check are required prior to employment.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited high school or GED equivalent.
Ability to assist with handling or be present during euthanasia preferred.
Special interest in animals and understanding of their proper treatment required.
Willingness to develop and understanding of animal care through formal training or otherwise as provided.
Beginning knowledge of animal diseases and ability to recognize symptoms of illness preferred.
Skill in checking and handling animals without personal injury.
Good moral character and good physical condition.
Knowledge of the methods, materials and equipment used in custodial work.
Knowledge of accepted cleaning methods and materials and of the care of cleaning equipment.
Writing, reading, mathematical principles; proficient computer skills-Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook; exercise sound judgment and decision making in accordance with policies and procedures; ability to research and problem solve independently; knowledge of County operations and functions; ability to prioritize and time manage; handle stressful situations, provide effective and friendly customer service; support the County's mission and values; ability to think critically where necessary.
Ability to communicate effectively and efficiently with management, co-workers and clients; obtain and communicate accurate information; apply common sense understanding to complex instructions and respond accordingly; communicate complex ideas through graphs, charts, presentations, reports or other professional correspondence.
Ability to demonstrate predictable, reliable, and timely attendance.
Ability to read, write & communicate in English; follow written and verbal instruction and understand basic mathematics and figure checking.
Ability to interpret and apply procedures, rules, technical information, instructions, manuals to complete tasks accurately and on schedule.
Ability to learn from directions, observations, and mistakes; and apply procedures using good judgement.
Ability to use discretion and maintain sensitive and confidential information.
Ability to work independently or part of a team; ability to interact appropriately with others such as County officials, employees, vendors and the general public.
Ability to work under supervision, receiving instructions/feedback, coaching/counseling and/or action/discipline.
Adaptability to change in the work environment, managing competing demands and ability to deal with frequent changes, delays or unexpected events.
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services including customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Proficient skills using Microsoft Office programs including, but not limited to: Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook as required.
Candidate must complete a satisfactory background check prior to starting employment.
Possess a valid State of Michigan Operator’s License and maintain eligibility to drive as per the County’s vehicle policy throughout employment in this position.
Must pass LEIN background check to qualify for and retain position.

Nice To Haves

Ability to assist with handling or be present during euthanasia preferred.
Beginning knowledge of animal diseases and ability to recognize symptoms of illness preferred.

Responsibilities

Cares for all animals housed at the shelter, ensuring food and water is provided and that prescribed medications are administered.
Cleans and disinfects all areas of animal shelter including kennels.
Accepts animals delivered to the shelter.
Prepares records, assigns kennels, administers intake shots and attaches proper identification to the kennel and records.
Observe and record behavior of animals in quarantine or recovery.
May be tasked with procuring urine or fecal samples.
Dust, sweep, mop floors.
Clean and maintain lavatories.
Wash windows, walls and woodwork.
Perform minor maintenance tasks such as: change lights, tighten screws, and paint.
Clean doors, desk tops and other surfaces.
Operate vacuum cleaners, polishers and other equipment and tools.
Gather and dispose of refuse.
Sweep and shovel walks to keep free of debris, ice and snow.
Perform light grounds maintenance work.
Other duties as assigned.