Lead Animal Care Technician

Finger Lakes Pet Resort•Farmington, NY

About The Position

Finger Lake Pet Resort is seeking a dog-loving, conscientious, detail-oriented caregiver who is interested in leading people and growing with the company. The Lead Animal Care Technician helps maintain safe, high-quality care and operations at the center, setting an example for the team and providing staff with training, guidance, and resources. The role includes supervising dog playgroups, learning and responding to canine behavior, maintaining clean kennels and play areas, and providing daily care such as feeding, fresh water, clean bedding, and medication administration according to veterinary instructions. The Lead Technician may take charge of the facility when the General Manager and Assistant Manager are absent, communicating relevant information to leadership. The position also involves customer service for pet parents, teamwork, problem solving, and following safety protocols. Duties may change according to the evolving needs of the company. Pay starts at $17.25 per hour.

Requirements

  • Natural leadership ability and a drive to take the lead; previous leadership experience is preferred.
  • Dependable, focused, and able to ensure facility standards and safety protocols are followed.
  • Comfortable using computers and technology and learning and operating kennel software.
  • Works well with others to complete duties and provide excellent care to guests.
  • Able to communicate properly, promptly, and effectively with team members, management, and pet parents.
  • Flexible schedule; willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
  • Keen observation skills and attention to detail to ensure guests are safe and comfortable and report issues.
  • Love for animals is required; comfortable with dogs of all sizes and breeds.
  • Able to stand or work upright for multiple hours, work in all weather types, lift at least 50 pounds, and remain active throughout a shift.
  • Previous pet-care or animal experience is preferred but not required.

Nice To Haves

  • Previous leadership experience.
  • Previous pet-care or animal experience.

Responsibilities

  • Set an example by adhering to operating policies and leading the team in maintaining optimum center operations.
  • Teach staff their roles and provide advice and resources to help them succeed.
  • Take charge of the facility when the General Manager and Assistant Manager are absent.
  • Communicate relevant information up the leadership chain, including dog behavior notes, supply needs, and potential incidents.
  • Oversee dog playgroups and manage dogs’ behavior and playtime.
  • Learn canine behavior and body language to help provide a safe environment and make dogs comfortable in kennels and playgroups.
  • Maintain cleanliness of kennels and play areas, including cleaning toys, washing dishes, mopping floors, vacuuming hair, and cleaning up dog messes.
  • Feed pets according to their parents’ instructions and ensure dogs have fresh water, clean bedding, and comfortable overnight accommodations.
  • Administer medication according to veterinary instructions when needed.
  • Use sound judgment to solve problems involving dogs in the center’s care.
  • Take initiative to perform a range of tasks at the center.
  • Communicate effectively and work collaboratively with team members, management, and pet parents.
  • Provide excellent customer service and speak enthusiastically with pet parents about their pets.
  • Follow established safety protocols.

Benefits

  • Discounted daycare and boarding for employees’ dogs.
  • Medical, vision, and dental plans for full-time employees.
  • 401(k) for full-time employees.
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