Animal Shelter Director

Northeast Georgia Animal Shelter

Job Description

Under the direction of the Board of the Northeast Georgia Animal Shelter, the Shelter Director is responsible for the operational oversight of the Shelter. Functional oversight includes animal intake, pet placement programs (adoption, foster, rescue transfer/transport), pet support services, and volunteer services. Monitors all aspects of the humane treatment and handling of shelter animals, animal flow, record keeping, and use of limited housing space. The director should anticipate client and constituent needs and continually search for ways to increase customer satisfaction, managing escalated and emotionally charged situations with tact, empathy and respect.

Hours: Full-time, Tuesday - Saturday (8:30 AM - 4:00 PM)
Pay rate: $50,000 - $65,000 (based on skill and experience)
Benefits: Healthcare included

Duties will include:
Attitude of service and compassion.
Ensures that best practices in animal sheltering are used at all times through detailed monitoring of day-to-day operations.This includes ensuring that appropriate record keeping is maintained and housing space is available
Works closely with the staff to set a Goal of 90% or higher save rate through adoption, rescue and foster and reduce overcrowding and length of stay in shelter
Responds to suggestions, complaints, and inquiries from volunteers, staff and the public
Ensures adequate staffing at all times and inspects the work of shelter staff for compliance of rules, regulations and policies
Holds regular staff meetings to review policy and procedures and to promote an attitude of compassionate , professional service for the community
Responsible for the development of a Foster program to lessen the burden on the shelter and protect at risk animals such as puppies .
Responsible for communication with the Board concerning maintenance and repair needs of the facility.
Prepares monthly reports for the Board to include shelter operations, population numbers, volunteer programs and DOA inspections.
Meets regularly with community officials and advocates to improve relationships within the community and further the mission of the shelter.
Responsible for the development ,maintenance, and oversight of a non- profit “Friends of” group to provide financial and community support to the shelter
Establishes grant funding priorities for the Shelter
Communicates weekly with animal control agencies about shelter intake abilities and limitations. Coordinates with animal control for large scale seizures and cruelty seizures

This list may not be inclusive of the total scope of job functions to be performed. Duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted or modified at any time.

Skills and Knowledge:
Apply knowledge & skills in controlling/handling individual animal temperament. Have ability to gain animal confidence when restraining them for transport, grooming and/or treatment.
Knowledge of common diseases, their symptoms and means of transmission, administration of oral medications, assessment of change in animal status.
Knowledge of spelling and meaning of commonly used veterinary terminology in order to accurately enter specific information onto animal records.

Minimum Qualifications:
Working Conditions:
Work is normally performed inside; some outside work is required.
Exposure to unpleasant odors and noises.
Exposure to bites, scratches and animal wastes.
Possible exposure to contagious diseases.
Possible exposure to parasites.
Strong knowledge of animal care practices, shelter management, and humane euthanasia protocols

Ability To:
Physical Effort: Often requires lifting and carrying materials weighing up to 40 lbs. Frequently requires handling of materials up to 20 lbs. Additionally, handle dogs weighing up to 150 lbs.
Walking and/or standing for long periods. Frequently work in a bent position. May be required to use strength or agility in capturing and restraining stronger, more active animals.

Education: High School Diploma, college diploma preferred and/or required certifications. Vet tech / animal welfare experience a plus.

Required Qualifications:
Strong communication, leadership and motivation skills.
Has the ability to effectively solve problems dealing with team conflict to personnel issues and performance.
Has the ability to direct, guide and assist a group of individuals.
Ability to work independently on assigned tasks as well as to accept direction on given assignments. Understand and carry out oral and written direction.
Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and emergencies.
Experience in rural community engagement and resource-limited environments.
Fundraising experience.
Comfort with public speaking and representing the shelter at public events.

Experience:
Previous experience in an Animal Shelter or related field preferred.
3-5 years shelter experience or equivalent experience/education in animal welfare, nonprofit or related experience.

Other requirements: Valid drivers license, ability to pass a background test.

This is a full time job