Feline Program Manager

Job Title: Feline Program Manager
Organization: PAWS (Panhandle Animal Welfare Society)
Location: Fort Walton Beach, FL
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $40,000 per year

Position Overview

PAWS is seeking a dedicated, compassionate, and highly organized Feline Program Manager to oversee the entire feline department under the direct guidance of the Director of Operations and Shelter Veterinarian. In this role, you will be responsible for managing staff, developing feline-focused programs, and ensuring the overall welfare of the cats in our care. This includes coordinating rescue efforts, managing foster placements, and assisting with shelter population goals and decisions. Your leadership and expertise will be crucial to our mission of providing exceptional care for the feline community.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the feline department to ensure optimal care and efficient workflow.
• Develop and implement strategic plans that align with the organization’s mission and values.
• Monitor departmental performance and implement improvements as needed.

Program Development & Administration

• Design, implement, and evaluate feline-specific programs, including enrichment and behavior assessments.
• Oversee feline rescue efforts, collaborating with partner organizations and community stakeholders.
• Facilitate and coordinate the feline foster program, ensuring proper screening, placement, and support of foster families.
• Work closely with the team to maintain appropriate in-shelter cat population goals.

Team Leadership

• Recruit, train, and supervise staff within the feline department.
• Schedule team members to ensure adequate coverage and high standards of feline care.
• Provide ongoing coaching, performance evaluations, and professional development opportunities.

Feline Welfare Decisions

• Oversee the intake, evaluation, and daily care of all cats, ensuring adherence to health, behavioral, and enrichment protocols.
• Collaborate with the Shelter Veterinarian to manage medical treatments and maintain accurate health records.

Safety & Compliance

• Implement and maintain safety and risk management procedures to protect staff, volunteers, and animals.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and organizational policies.
• Maintain accurate program data, including budgets, outcomes, and feline health statistics.

Stakeholder Engagement & Outreach

• Foster relationships with donors, community partners, and external organizations to support feline programs.
• Represent PAWS at fundraising events, public outreach initiatives, and educational programs.
• Communicate program goals, successes, and challenges to leadership and key stakeholders.

On-Call Availability

• Be prepared to respond to urgent or after-hours situations related to feline care or shelter emergencies.

Benefits & Compensation

• Annual salary of $40,000 (paid on a bi-weekly basis)
• Health, vision, and dental insurance for the employee
• Access to discounted veterinary care and prescriptions for personal pets
• Paid Time Off (PTO) in accordance with company policy
• Professional development opportunities (seminars, workshops, and ongoing education)

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; a degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, or a related field is a plus.
• Prior supervisory or management experience in an animal welfare setting strongly preferred.

Skills:

• Strong organizational and leadership abilities.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Competency in basic computer applications and data management.

Personal Attributes:

• Compassionate, empathetic, and genuinely committed to animal welfare.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.

How to Apply

If you’re passionate about feline welfare and excited to lead a team dedicated to improving the lives of cats, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume and a cover letter through really, highlighting your experience in animal care and any relevant leadership roles.

PAWS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply and join our mission to serve and protect animals in need. We look forward to reviewing your application!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,000