Population Manager

Five Acres Animal Shelter

Job Description

Position Summary:
The Population Manager is responsible for overseeing and optimizing the flow of animals through the shelter system, from intake to outcome. This role ensures efficient population management by overseeing the foster care and intake programs. This position requires cross-departmental collaboration with the Animal Care Manager, Medical Staff and Behavior Manager. The ideal candidate is highly organized, data-driven, and passionate about animal welfare and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities:
Intake Program Oversight
Manage and oversee the intake program and intake staff
Develop strategies to reduce length of stay and increase positive outcomes (adoption, transfer, return-to-owner)
Develop and continue to improve upon intake protocols
Develop and continue to improve upon shelter intake partners
Monitor and analyze population data to inform decision-making and resource allocation

Foster Program Oversight
Manage and oversee the foster program and foster staff
Lead and expand the foster care program to support capacity and improve/increase animal intakes and outcomes
Recruit, train, and retain foster volunteers through ongoing communication, support and engagement
Match animals with appropriate foster homes based on medical and behavioral needs
Track foster utilization and outcome data to ensure program effectiveness and growth
Cross-Departmental Collaboration
Partner with animal care, medical and behavior teams to ensure timely assessment, treatment, and placement of animals
Coordinate care plans that support efficient movement through the shelter system
Participate in regular case reviews to identify barriers and implement solutions
Community Engagement & Outreach
Develop, plan, and attend community events to increase awareness and engagement in foster and shelter programs
Support and participate in vaccine clinics, adoption events, and other public-facing initiatives
Collaborate with outreach team members to promote humane education opportunities and responsible pet ownership
Build relationships with community partners to expand resources and support networks
Perform other duties as assigned needed to best support the shelter, pets and staff

Qualifications:
Experience in animal sheltering, rescue, or related field preferred
Strong organizational and project management skills
Ability to analyze data and implement strategic improvements
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Experience working with volunteers or community programs is highly desirable
Passion for animal welfare and commitment to humane practices

Work Environment:
Ability to lift and handle animals of various sizes
Frequent exposure to noise, odors, and cleaning chemicals
Weekend, holiday, and on-call availability as needed

Physical Requirements:
Ability to lift and move animals and equipment
Prolonged standing, walking, and occasional bending or lifting