Shelter Manager
Valley River Humane Society
Job Description
Lead a shelter that delivers second chances. For 60 years, our shelter has been a lifeline for cats, dogs, and the people who care about them in three underserved counties in western North Carolina. Located in Murphy, we take in approximately 1,600 animals each year—each one deserving of safety, compassionate care, and a chance at a better life.We’re looking for a Shelter Manager who can put that commitment into compassionate action. Someone who leads people with respect, sets clear standards for animal care, and builds trust with a community where resources and options can be limited.
This is a hands-on leadership role with real responsibility and visible impact. You’ll help shape how our shelter cares for animals, supports its team, and serves the people who depend on us.
What you’ll lead:
• Safe, humane animal care. Oversee daily operations, including feeding, cleaning, enrichment, housing, and coordination of veterinary care.
• A supported, accountable team. Train and guide staff and volunteers, organize schedules, communicate priorities, and address challenges fairly.
• Thoughtful movement through the shelter. Coordinate intake, reunification, adoption, transport partnerships so animals receive appropriate care and timely opportunities to leave the shelter.
• Respectful community service. Help people navigate difficult situations with empathy, clear information, and practical support.
• Reliable shelter practices. Maintain accurate records, manage supplies and available resources, and uphold health, safety, and animal welfare requirements.
• Steady improvement. Identify problems, develop workable solutions, and strengthen relationships with veterinary providers, rescue organizations, and community partners.
• Shelter expansion and engagement. Facilitate community outreach programs, educational events and volunteer initiatives.
What you’ll bring:
You have experience caring for animals in a shelter, rescue, veterinary, or related setting, along with experience leading people and coordinating daily work. You understand that a well-run shelter depends on both compassionate care and dependable systems.
We’re looking for someone who:
• Uses sound judgment and stays composed when priorities shift.
• Understands humane animal handling, disease prevention, and the needs of animals under stress.
• Sets clear expectations and helps others succeed.
• Communicates honestly and respectfully, including during difficult conversations.
• Treats people seeking help with dignity and without judgment.
• Makes thoughtful decisions with limited resources and knows when to ask for support.
• Is comfortable with the physical demands and emotional realities of shelter work.
• A minimum of 5 years in a leadership position in a veterinary hospital, or animal shelter preferred.
Why your work matters:
In an underserved region, an animal shelter is more than a place animals stay. It is where a lost pet may find its family, where someone facing a crisis can turn for help, and where an animal with nowhere else to go can receive care.
As Shelter Manager you will help carry forward a 60-year commitment of being a safe haven for the homeless and unwanted, while building a stronger future for this essential community resource.
Position details
Compensation: $48,000-$60,000
Schedule: Full-Time
Benefits: Paid time off
Location: Murphy, NC; on-site
How to apply:
Send your résumé and a brief note explaining your relevant experience and interest in this role to: vrhsinquiries@gmail.com
This is a full time job
Contact Information
Job Contact Details
Natasha Kush
Board Member
Closing Date: Friday, December 18, 2026
Posting Date:
Closing Date:
