Assistant Director - Operations

Dallas Animal Services

Job Description

About Dallas Animal Services
Dallas Animal Services (DAS) is one of the largest municipal animal shelters in the country, focused on balancing public safety and lifesaving through innovative animal welfare programs, compassionate care, and community partnerships. Our mission is to help both people and pets by creating a safe, humane, and thriving city for all.

Position Summary
Dallas Animal Services is seeking an experienced, visionary leader to serve as Assistant Director over Operations, responsible for overseeing critical divisions that include Field Operations and Veterinary/Medical Services. Reporting to the DAS Director, this role will provide strategic direction, operational oversight, and leadership to ensure the effective delivery of services that protect public health and safety, advance animal welfare, and support the community.

Key Responsibilities

Provide leadership and direction for Field Operations, ensuring effective enforcement of animal-related ordinances, humane investigations, and community engagement.

Oversee Veterinary and Medical Services, including shelter medicine, disease prevention, and animal care protocols.

Partner with the Director and leadership team to establish long-term strategies that improve operational efficiency, staff development, and service outcomes.

Lead and mentor a diverse team of managers, veterinarians, field supervisors, and staff to foster a culture of accountability, compassion, and innovation.

Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices to enhance animal health, staff safety, and compliance with local and state laws.

Oversee emergency response planning and implementation, including disease management, severe weather, and community crises.

Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including city leadership, community organizations, and residents, to build strong partnerships and improve service delivery.

Monitor and manage budgets, staffing, and resources to ensure operational effectiveness and fiscal responsibility.

Use data-driven decision-making to evaluate performance and guide continuous improvement in lifesaving outcomes, field response, and veterinary care.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).

Minimum of 7 years of progressive leadership experience in animal services, animal welfare, public safety, or a related field.

Strong knowledge of animal welfare best practices, municipal operations, and regulatory compliance.

Experience managing large teams, budgets, and cross-functional operations.

Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills with the ability to balance compassion with operational demands.

Ability to build trust and credibility with staff, stakeholders, and the community.

Why Join DAS?
This is an opportunity to make a measurable impact in one of the nation’s largest animal welfare organizations. As Assistant Director of Operations, you will help shape the future of DAS, advance progressive animal welfare practices, and strengthen our commitment to both pets and people in Dallas.

This is a full time job