Job Description
Job Description
K9s For Warriors is the nation’s largest provider of service dogs to veterans suffering from the invisible wounds of war, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Our unique, in-house program helps change the lives of American heroes by pairing them with a battle buddy, who was likely a rescue dog and then teaching him or her to utilize that dog to mitigate the symptoms of their wounds. In order to continue the great work we are doing, we are in need of a K9 Caretaker to join our amazing team!
Basic Function
The K9 Caretaker supports the proper operation of the kennels, to include cleaning / maintaining kennel facilities, feeding the dogs, caring for the dogs, and ensuring the overall safety of the kennel facilities and dogs.
- Shifts vary based on the needs of the kennel; to include weekends, holidays, evenings, and rotating days off.
Essential Functions and Duties
Responsible for all cleaning, feeding, bathing and animal handling in accordance with K9s For Warriors policies and proceduresResponsible for complying with all safety procedures while working in the kennels, with special emphasis on animal handling and proper use of cleaning chemicalsObserve, assess, and ensure all dog behavior and health concerns are dealt with in accordance with K9s For Warriors guidelines, reporting any concerns or changes the K9 Programs ManagerFollow instruction given by Veterinary Staff to assist in care and medicating dogsHandle dogs humanely and safely at all timesReport maintenance concerns to the K9 Programs Manager, assist with dissemination of incoming products and orderingAssist with maintaining building and equipment, including but not limited to interior and exterior of building, grounds, kennel areas, yard maintenance / equipmentRespond to the operational needs of the kennel as directed by the K9 Programs ManagerFollow and promote all K9s For Warriors’ policies and proceduresIdentify opportunities to improve the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of the dogs in K9s For Warriors’ care and bring ideas and suggestions to appropriate supervisorParticipate in kennel training sessions and enrichment as designatedComplete training logs and associated paperwork completely and accuratelyOther Duties
Perform additional tasks as assigned by the K9 Programs Manager and Senior Director of K9 ProgramsMaintain good communication with kennel staff and other departmentsMaintain good working relationships with all kennel and organization employees
Qualifications and Education Requirements
High school degree or equivalentAbility to work weekends, holidays, and rotating scheduleKennel experience preferredValid driver’s licensePhysical Demands
Ability to exert a moderate to extensive amount of physical effort, including stooping, crouching, pushing, pulling, walking stairs, climbing, and lifting up to fifty (50) pounds individually. Exposure to unpleasant odors or sounds, cleaning chemicals, loud noises, and inclement weather. Must be able to operate power tools, pressure washers, etc.
Core Competencies
Attention to DetailIntegrityInitiativePositive AttitudeCooperationTeamwork
