What are the responsibilities and job description for the Kennel Technician position at Joliet Township Government?
The Kennel Technician is responsible for the day-to-day care of the shelter's animals and maintaining general shelter cleanliness. Duties include feeding, watering, grooming, walking, and monitoring the well-being of dogs and cats. This role requires physical strength, mobility, and stamina to lift and move heavy pets and objects, as well as the dexterity and confidence to administer medications and monitor pets for signs of distress or disease. A willingness to learn and a desire to provide gentle, compassionate care for the animals during their stay are essential.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide compassionate care to shelter animals.
- Conduct oneself confidently and professionally, even when stressed or focused on individual tasks.
- Follow a regular schedule for cleaning and sanitizing the shelter, including all cages, runs, rooms, and related areas, and changing litter boxes and food/water bowls.
- Prioritize tasks to stay busy and productive during work shifts.
- Maintain laundry for the shelter.
- Recognize and report any unusual conditions or abnormal behavior.
- Assist veterinary technicians with administering medications or patient restraint.
- Clean equipment and facilities using chemicals and supplies, ensuring safety.
- Maintain the cleanliness of the shelter daily.
- Understand and complete the daily, weekly, and monthly chore list to maintain the shelter's cleanliness, equipment, and overall appearance.
- Follow OSHA standards.
- Understand and follow oral and written directions.
- Maintain positive, cooperative relationships with other employees.
- Assist other employees as needed and offer help proactively.
- Participate in staff and training meetings.
- Teach other staff members kennel skills.
- Maintain constant vigilance regarding open doorways to prevent pet escapes.
Other Job Functions:
- Perform all other duties as assigned by the Animal Control Director.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Genuinely enjoy working with animals and handle them compassionately, even when they are stressed, ill, or in pain.
- Work effectively in an environment with barking dogs.
- Physical effort required for lifting and carrying animals and food bags (assistance available for animals over 40 lbs).
- Ability to walk or stand for extended periods and frequently work in a bent position.
- Work in conditions that may involve unpleasant odors, noises, and animal feces.
- Potential exposure to bites, scratches, and contagious diseases.
Education, Experience, and Computer Skills:
- High school degree or equivalent.
- Animal care background is desirable but not required.
Note: Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to reasonably assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time. Essential features of this position are described above. A copy of the job description will be kept with the employee's personal files.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- On-the-job training
- Paid training
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Uniform allowance
- Vision insurance
Shift:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
Work Days:
- Holidays
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Ability to Commute:
- Joliet, IL 60436 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Joliet, IL 60436: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20
