Animal Welfare Specialist
About The Position
The Animal Welfare Specialist supports the successful operation of the TJO Adoption Center by providing customer service, animal medical and behavioral evaluation and treatment, direct animal care, and kennel sanitation. The specialist ensures that members of the public are treated respectfully and receive appropriate information about animal-related situations and issues. The role is responsible for providing quality care to shelter animals in accordance with the policies and procedures of the Thomas J. O'Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center. The position does not supervise other employees.
Requirements
- Associate degree in a related field.
- Two years of related experience in animal welfare.
- Advanced interpersonal skills for dealing with conflict and highly emotional or difficult clients.
- Ability to diffuse potentially aggressive or hostile client behavior.
- Ability to work well and communicate effectively with the public and volunteers.
- Ability to work effectively and independently.
- Knowledge of animal handling skills and general animal welfare issues.
- Ability to use shelter and rescue equipment safely and effectively.
- Knowledge of legal protocols for handling, administering, and logging controlled animal drugs.
Responsibilities
- Provide courteous, respectful, high-quality customer service to the public in person and by phone, including adoption counseling, surrenders, complaints, and advice on animal welfare issues.
- Examine incoming animals and administer vaccinations, heartworm and feline leukemia tests, microchips, grooming procedures such as nail trimming and ear cleaning, and daily medical treatments.
- Conduct adoption counseling, surrender, and Return To Owner processes.
- Receive reports of possible cruelty or neglect and advise the public on general animal welfare issues.
- Participate in the euthanasia process according to Center policies and procedures.
- Arrange transfers of animals between organizations, monitor feral cat colonies or stray populations, and secure resources for indigent clients seeking assistance from TJO.
- Arrange spay/neuter and other medical appointments.
- Assist with animal emergencies and law enforcement cases as needed and as directed by the Executive Director or Shelter Supervisor.
- Provide shelter animals with the best possible care and observe them for signs of illness, injury, or behavioral deterioration.
- Clean and disinfect kennels and cages, and provide animals with appropriate food, water, and bedding.
- Use Chameleon Software and handle necessary transactions.
- Follow systems, methods, and procedures consistent with modern humane and business practices.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
Associate degree
