Kennel Aide - THE HUMANE SOCIETY FOR TACOMA AND PIERCE COUNTY

Department / Classification: Animal Care / Non-Exempt; Union
Reports To: Shelter Operations Manager
Supervises: None

JOB SUMMARY: In this role you will perform routine animal care that helps to maintain the health and happiness of our animals! The work includes cleaning and maintaining animal housing areas and requires handling of animals to house, properly care for them, and minimize their stress. Additionally we are union and offer Health Benefits, PTO & Vacation, Paid Holidays, and Retirement! We also offer internal growth opportunities! Come join and our team and make a difference for the community and compassionate care for its animals!

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & FUNCTIONS :

• Feed animals following established guidelines and schedules
• Ensure animals have access to clean water at all times
• Maintaining the overall cleanliness of the kennel area which includes following the established protocol to clean, disinfect and maintain shelter housing.
• Participate in stress and disease reduction through compassionate handling of all animals ensuring safety is always the first priority. A caring and compassionate attitude is required of all members of our team!
• Monitor animals behaviors and immediately report health or behavioral abnormalities to the appropriate individual(s)
• Restock cleaning and other kennel supplies
• Ensure inventory of needed supplies is maintained at appropriate levels.
• Maintain work and general areas within department in a clean and organized manner.
• May be called upon to assist receiving with setting up incoming animals.
• Interact and communicate with co-workers and volunteers in an efficient and courteous manner to ensure a cooperative team environment amongst all departments.
• Maintain accurate and timely animal records, performing data entry as directed.
• Attend meetings and/or trainings as scheduled and required.
• Represent the Society well by providing excellent customer service as needed.
• Ensures a safe working environment following all safety guidelines and addressing any safety concerns with the appropriate individual(s).
• Willingly and cooperatively performs other duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Available to work weekends, holiday shifts and overtime as needed
• Ability to work with all animal species
• Knowledge of best practices in animal healthcare and welfare
• Strong fear free and safe animal handing skills
• Team player, able to work in a fast-pace environment and multi-task.
• Outgoing, polite and professional manner.
• The ability to deal with a diverse public is required
• Communicate effectively orally and in writing
• Excellent organizational skills
• Computer skills in a Windows environment preferred including Word, Excel, Power Point, Teams, SharePoint, and Chameleon
• Must have the ability to multi task, prioritize and handle high levels of stress
• Position requires excellent organizational skills, as well as high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Must be dependable, have proven ability to meet deadlines and follow detailed instructions without need of constant support.
• A caring and compassionate attitude is required of all members of our team.

EDUCTION & CERTIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Computer skills is a plus.
• Ability to complete Fear Free for Shelters certification course within the first 60 days.

EXPERIENCE:

• Any acceptable combination of education, training and/or experience in animal welfare and/or customer service helpful