Animal Care & Transport Specialist

Humane Society for Southwest Washington•Longview, WA

3d•$18 - $21

About The Position

The Animal Care & Transport Specialist plays a critical role in providing compassionate, dignified aftercare services for animals while supporting the safe and timely transport of live and deceased animals across Humane Society for Southwest Washington (HSSW) operations and partner locations. This position is responsible for the respectful handling and cremation of animal remains, accurate recordkeeping, and reliable transportation services, all while adhering to strict safety, regulatory, and ethical standards. Serving as both a technical operator and a compassionate representative of HSSW, the Animal Care & Transport Specialist frequently interacts with veterinary partners, shelter staff, and, at times, grieving pet owners. The role requires a high level of emotional intelligence, attention to detail, physical stamina, and professionalism. Through meticulous care, regulatory compliance, and respectful communication, this position helps ensure that animals are treated with dignity throughout their final journey and that HSSW’s commitment to humane, respectful service is upheld at every stage.

Requirements

Compassion, emotional intelligence, and professionalism when supporting grieving pet owners.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Familiarity with safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and ethical handling of remains.
Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office or similar).
Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs.
Valid Washington or Oregon driver’s license with good driving record. (Motor Vehicle Record check required)

Responsibilities

Handle and prepare animal remains with respect, ensuring accurate identification and secure containment.
Operate and maintain crematory equipment safely according to guidelines.
Maintain clean, safe workspaces and follow all health, safety, and biohazard protocols.
Ensure timely, accurate return of cremated remains and memorial items to clients or partners.
Safely transport live and deceased animals between shelter locations in company vehicles.
Coordinate live animal transport with Operations leadership, including urgent or pre-scheduled transfers.
Receive deceased animals from veterinary partners, or shelters with empathy and professionalism.
Load and unload cremation containers safely while adhering to hygiene protocols.
Perform daily vehicle inspections, maintain cleanliness, and follow routing and safety procedures.
Maintain detailed records for cremation services in compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
Complete scheduling, invoicing, documentation, and data entry tasks as required.
Follow HSSW, OSHA, and industry regulations for workplace safety and animal handling.

Benefits

Health insurance effective the first of the month following hire (full-time employees).
Dental and vision insurance effective the first of the month following hire.
Matching percentage 401(k) retirement plan beginning the first month after hire, with a 3-year graded vesting schedule and ROTH contribution option.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) available to all employees and household members.
Section 125 FSA Cafeteria Plan for out-of-pocket health and/or dependent day care expenses.
Access to affordable life, disability, and accidental supplemental insurance.
Numerous employee discounts and discounts with partner organizations.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness qualified employer: To learn more about this Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, go to https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation.
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Floating Holidays (full-time employees).
Bereavement leave
Pet bereavement leave