Animal Caretaker

Frederick County Local Government • Winchester, VA

23h • Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for a compassionate, dependable, and hardworking individual to join our team in providing exceptional care for animals in our shelter. In this hands-on role, you will perform skilled and manual work involving the daily care, feeding, handling, monitoring, and sanitation of impounded animals while helping maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming shelter environment.

Requirements

• Must possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Must possess a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain any certification required by applicable law to perform animal euthanasia within the timeframe established by the County.
• Required rabies and hepatitis vaccinations must be obtained and maintained as a condition of employment, subject to applicable law and any approved accommodation.

Nice To Haves

• Experience performing manual work and caring for or handling animals is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Clean and sanitize animal runs, cages, equipment, and shelter facilities daily in accordance with shelter protocols and applicable state regulations, while performing general janitorial and grounds maintenance.
• Maintain equipment and tools in a clean, organized, and safe working condition.
• Provide daily care for impounded animals, including feeding, watering, handling, and monitoring their health and well-being.
• Administer or assist with administering vaccinations and medications in accordance with shelter protocols, veterinarian instructions, and applicable authorization requirements.
• Monitor animals for signs of illness or injury and assist with authorized diagnostic testing when needed.
• Transport animals to and from veterinary appointments, adoption events, and other approved locations.
• Assist the public with shelter services in a courteous, professional, and compassionate manner.
• Complete and process shelter records, reports, and other operational paperwork accurately and in a timely manner.
• Deliver documents to County offices and pick up supplies necessary for shelter operations.
• Assist with euthanasia decisions in accordance with applicable laws, shelter policies, and authorized direction, and perform euthanasia when properly certified and authorized.
• Support shelter outreach through special events, adoption events, and promotional activities.
• Maintain professionalism while responding to stressful or emotionally challenging situations involving animals, coworkers, and members of the public.

Benefits

• Criminal background check for any convictions that relate to the job duties and responsibilities.
• Equal opportunity employer.
• Celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED