Animal Care Manager

Description

SUMMARY 

This position will manage the animal flow and daily operations of the department. The focus of this position is working with and through others, building and maintaining relationships, and working closely and accurately within HARP’s established guidelines. The job involves leading others and maintaining relationships with team members and the general public.  

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILTIES 

• Manages all aspects of the day-to-day animal care operations. Ensures work is done promptly and in accordance with established procedures and state laws. Assists with daily activities when necessary. 

• Hires, trains, evaluates, supervises, schedules, and directs the activities of the Animal Care staff and volunteers to provide for their growth and to maximize the potential of all employees and volunteers for the good of HARP. 

• Establishes and maintains an approved standard of care of animals in the shelter and the maintenance of shelter facility.  

• Participates as a supportive member of the HARP management team to identify health and safety concerns, temperament issues, safe and humane handling and adoptability of shelter animals. 

• Works collaboratively with all staff members to achieve the completion of daily work assignments, following proper shelter protocols; has accountability for measurable results in these areas. 

• Treats animals humanely, with compassion and concern both on and off the job and transmits these values to others. 

• Regularly participates in and conducts meetings with other staff members to share ideas and suggestions designed to improve working conditions and the programs of HARP. 

• Works with management staff to create and implement various Animal Care protocols and procedures including physical examinations, vaccinations, euthanasia, and other procedures. 

• Ensures a high level of communication/supervision with and maintains discipline and prescribed work performance standards of all Animal Care staff. 

• Fosters a team environment by working effectively with all members of the organization to accomplish department and organizational goals and objectives. 

• Establishes and maintains a written equipment and daily operational supply inventory ensuring that necessary tools and resources are readily available to staff when needed. 

• Assures the maintenance and use of shelter operational software, maintaining animal records as required and reviews the work of others on a regular basis to ensure that accurate and timely information is available and current. Is responsible for monthly/yearly animal statistics report. 

• Provides on-call support to respond to shelter emergencies as needed. 

• It is responsible for helping the Director of Shelter Operations develop and implement the Animal Care Department Business Plan and Annual Budget. 

• Is aware of the change process's dynamics and works to ensure that all Animal Care activities and procedures are reviewed and modified effectively and efficiently. 

• Be available to perform the functions of an Animal Care Technician when necessary.  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES   

• Proven leadership abilities.  

• Strong problem-solving skills.  

• Time management and organizational skills. 

• Ability to multi-task and prioritize work.  

• Ability to communicate effectively. 

• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office.  

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to hazards associated with aggressive animals.  The employee will primarily be working in an animal shelter environment.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate  

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

Incumbent must be able to read, see, hear, and speak. During work, employee may be required to bend, stoop, squat, climb, and walk. This position will require standing for up to seven (7) hours per shift. The role routinely requires handling animals in varying degrees of behavior and keen observational skills, dexterity with a leash and other training equipment used with cats and dogs. The position will require the ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to fifty (50) pounds. Will be required to use a computer with keyboard, telephone or handheld mobile phone, and office machinery as needed.  This description is representative of the requirements that must be met by an employee to successfully perform essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

TRAVEL 

This position will require working out of HARP’s North Shore and/or East End locations.  

Travel supporting animals around the Pittsburgh region is required.  Company vehicles are provided for transporting animals.  

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS 

• Associate's degree or three years related experience in a management role. 

• Previous animal handling experience required; Shelter experience preferred.  

• Ability to provide leadership and training to staff regarding kennel care, animal behavior and behavioral testing. 

• Ability to work independently, be self-motivated and detail oriented. 

• Must be able to work a flexible schedule which includes days, evenings, weekends, and holidays. 

• Ability to provide ongoing feedback to staff. 

• Knowledge of state laws regulating the cleaning and operations of a kennel shelter. 

• Ability to handle animals of all temperaments, including aggressive and ill ones.   

• Must be able to work standing or sitting for 8 hours. 

• Ability to use standard office equipment such as a personal computer using MS Word, Excel, and other related software. 

• Must have a valid driver’s license with a clear driving history.