Job Details

Kennel Supervisor

• $41,776 - $55,984/ Year
• Full Benefits Package

Duties:

• Supervises shelter kennel workers in the performance of their duties and provides training in proper animal handling protocols.
• Provides for the care of animals confined to the Shelter while maintaining high standards of cleanliness and sanitation.
• Responsible for the redemption, transfer and adoption of animals.
• Observes and inspects all incoming and housed animals for disease and/or injury and provides proper housing, first-aid treatment, veterinary care and basic grooming as needed for the health of animals.
• Qualifies housed animals for adoption according to general health and behavior.
• Ensures all animals have been vaccinated according to needs. Scans all incoming dogs and cats for microchips.
• Selects animals for spay/neuter.
• Maintains positive relationships and communication with local veterinarians and performs weekly clinic rounds with a veterinarian to ensure the continued care of all animals.
• Performs or assists in the performance of euthanasia as necessary.
• Interviews and qualifies adopters and educates on proper pet care. Explains programs to assist adopters, such as spay/neuter rebates, etc.
• Assists the Animal Control Director in actively promoting adoptions through social media and other advertising outlets.
• Develops educational literature and programming.
• Assists in the conduct of rabies shot clinics, fund raising opportunities, and other outreach efforts.
• Provides input for training and development of animal health/enrichment, staff and volunteers, along with recommendations of volunteer needs, working with the Volunteer Coordinator.
• Inventories kennel supplies and monitors kennel equipment. Reports shortages and the need for maintenance to the Animal Control Director and/or Administrative Manager.
• This description is intended to illustrate the type and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. It may not be a comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities required by a person so classified.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science or related field and three years of experience in an animal shelter setting or veterinary office; OR
• High school diploma or GED and six years of progressively more responsible experience in an animal shelter setting and/or veterinary office with at least six months of supervisory experience.
• Certification as a Veterinary Assistant or Licensed Veterinary Technician is preferred.

Special Requirements:

• Possession of a valid vehicle operator's license and a vehicle.
• Must complete eight hours of instruction from a veterinarian in the use of sodium pentobarbital within 90 days of employment, resulting in certification that demonstrates competency to give intercardial, intraperitoneal and intravenous injections, and to make a positive determination of death.
• Berrien County Animal Control is a 24 hours, seven day a week operation with no holidays.
• May be subject to call in after normal work hours for emergencies.

Required Skills and Knowledge:

• Personal initiative and the ability to effectively plan and organize work.
• Knowledge and skill in the care, handling and habits of companion animals.
• Able to handle critical and sensitive situations tactfully in a calm and professional manner.
• Able to communicate effectively with people of all social/economic backgrounds and cultures, including emotional pet owners.
• Must be able to work in an environment with pet related noises, animal feces and urine, and in an environment where euthanasia of animals occurs.
• A vast knowledge of animals, both domestic as well as wildlife is essential to successfully perform the duties of this position.
• Knowledge of geography, street and principal locations within Berrien County.
• Able to use social media outlets effectively.