Animal Care Supervisor

• $43,029 - $57,664/ Year
• Full Benefits Package

Duties:

• Supervises shelter kennel workers in the performance of their duties.
• Exercises a supervisory role throughout the shelter in the absence of the Animal Shelter Manager and Administrative Manager.
• Participates in training new staff members and volunteers in safe animal handling practices.
• Responsible for the movement and flow of animals in and out of the shelter.
• Participates in the active promotion of adoptions, redemptions, community education and other events through various outlets.
• Builds relationships with partnering organizations such as veterinarians and rescues.
• Monitors and examines all incoming and housed animals to determine physical condition, basic needs, appropriate housing, and the need for medical care; organizes veterinary care and assists with vaccinations as needed.
• Selects and transports animals for spay/neuter appointments.
• Serves as the primary contact for the shelter veterinarian; ensures that any necessary animal care is communicated to the shelter team.
• Provides quality enrichment for the animals at the shelter to ensure the best care possible.
• Cleans, disinfects and organizes cages, kennel areas and animal supplies.
• Monitors inventory for all supplies, including the expiration dates of medical supplies and food.
• Maintains records for the vaccination, deworming, microchipping, and physical condition of each animal.
• Assists in the evaluation and completion of euthanasia as needed.
• This description is intended to illustrate the general nature and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. It may not be a comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities required by a person so classified.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in animal science or related field and two years of experience in an animal shelter setting or veterinary office; OR
• High school diploma or GED and six years of progressively more responsible experience in an animal shelter setting and/or veterinary office with at least six months of supervisory experience.
• Certification as a Veterinary Assistant or Licensed Veterinary Technician is preferred.

Special Requirements:

• Will be required to complete sixteen hours of instruction from a veterinarian in the use of sodium pentobarbital within 90 days of employment, resulting in certification that demonstrates competency to give intercardial, intraperitoneal and intravenous injections, and to make a positive determination of death.
• Must complete the Fear Free Shelter Certification program within 30 days of employment.
• The physical ability to lift at least 50 lbs. and frequently bend, stoop, walk or stand for long periods of time is essential to the successful performance of job duties.
• Must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license throughout the course of employment.
• A background check will be performed, and the candidate will be required to successfully pass a pre-employment physical, including drug testing, as a condition of employment.
• Berrien County Animal Services operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. May be subject to call in after normal work hours for kennel or animal related emergencies.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

Vast knowledge of domestic animals and wildlife.

Personal initiative, with the ability to effectively plan and organize work.

Able to handle critical and sensitive situations tactfully in a calm and professional manner.