What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Animal Care Attendant position at Berrien County?
DUTIES:
Provides daily care, enrichment, and exercise for shelter animals.
Assists with adoptions, redemptions, and animal intake operations.
Maintains a clean and sanitary environment, including kennels, enclosures, and common areas.
Monitors animal health and reports any sign of illness or discomfort.
Ensures animals are properly identified and photographed for shelter profile.
Supports staff training and mentorship, fostering a compassionate and team-oriented environment.
Assists with inventory, supply management, and administrative tasks such as data entry and dog license sales.
Recommends animals to potential adopters to find quality matches.
Assists with rescue transportation and spay/neuter runs.
Provides coverage for both kennel and front desk 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:
High school diploma or equivalent and a minimum of six months of prior animal handling and care.
Certification as a veterinary assistant or licensed veterinary technician is desired.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
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.
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 be able to handle a variety of animals without limitations such as allergies or fear.
May be scheduled to work during evening, weekends and holidays.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:
Passionate about animals and their care.
Vast knowledge of domestic animals and wildlife.
Excellent personal initiative, with the ability to effectively plan and organize work in a team environment.
Capable of working in an environment with pet-related noises, animal feces and urine, and in an environment where euthanasia of animals occurs.
Strong communication skills; able to interact effectively with diverse individuals, including emotional pet owners.
Capable of handling critical and sensitive situations in a calm and professional manner.
Familiar with the geography, streets and principal locations within Berrien County.
Able to use social media outlets effectively.
Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Able to utilize cleaning materials and equipment with skill and efficiency.
Willing to learn safe animal handling techniques.
TO APPLY ONLINE, CLICK HERE:
TO APPLY VIA EMAIL, FAX, MAIL OR IN PERSON:
If you prefer not to apply online, you may download a Berrien County Job Application and send it to our Personnel Department via email, fax, mail or in person. A Berrien County job application must be submitted in order to be considered for employment.
Submit by Email
Fax: (269) 983-5788
Address: Berrien County Administration Building, Personnel Department, 701 Main St., St. Joseph, MI 49085
