Placement Counselor (Part-Time or Full-Time Opportunities Available)
Animal Friends•Kilbuck Township, PA
•Onsite
About The Position
The Placement Counselor plays a vital role in supporting Animal Friends’ mission by connecting animals with the right people through thoughtful, compassionate matchmaking. This position works closely with adopters, fosters, volunteers, and team members to ensure every animal is placed into a safe, appropriate, and loving home. As one of the most public-facing roles in Lifesaving Operations, the Placement Counselor delivers an exceptional, low-barrier experience that builds trust, educates the community, and strengthens the human-animal bond.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent; must be at least 18 years of age
- Customer service, public-facing, or client support experience required
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
- Ability to manage sensitive or high-stress situations with professionalism and empathy
- Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel)
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
- Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events
- Comfortable working with dogs, cats, rabbits, and animals of varying sizes, temperaments, and needs
- Ability to safely handle animals and complete required training within 60 days of hire
- Reliable transportation required; valid driver’s license preferred
Nice To Haves
- Previous experience in animal care, sheltering, or welfare environments
- Knowledge of animal behavior and basic health concepts
- Experience supporting foster or adoption programs
- Experience in community engagement, events, or social media promotion
Responsibilities
- Provide high-quality, individualized matchmaking for adopters and foster families
- Facilitate safe, positive introductions between animals and people (and resident pets, when applicable)
- Educate adopters and foster caregivers on animal history, behavior, medical needs, and ongoing support resources
- Support the placement process from initial inquiry through follow-up
- Promote adoptable animals through conversations, events, and written bios
- Participate in adoption promotions, outreach events, and community engagement opportunities
- Assist in foster placement coordination, including education, onboarding, and ongoing support
- Handle animals of varying species, sizes, and temperaments safely and humanely
- Respond to calls, emails, and inquiries; schedule appointments and maintain documentation
- Support reporting, recordkeeping, and adoption paperwork
- Maintain familiarity with all adoptable and foster animals
- Assist in maintaining a clean, safe, and organized environment
- Collaborate across departments to ensure positive outcomes for animals and people
- Engage and support volunteers within the department
- Participate in training, team meetings, and organizational initiatives
- Represent Animal Friends professionally with the public and media, as needed
- Perform other responsibilities as assigned to support organizational needs
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance (for eligible employees)
- Paid time off, holidays, and birthday pay
- Retirement plan with employer contribution
- Employee Assistance Program
- Continuing education and professional development opportunities
- Pet care discounts and on-site clinic benefits
- Casual dress and Animal Friends gear
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
