Job Description
Job Description
Santa Fe Animal Shelter & Humane Society
Department: Clinic Operations
Job Type: Full-Time | Non-Exempt
Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico
Overview:
The Santa Fe Animal Shelter is seeking a compassionate, hardworking, and team-oriented individual to join our team as a Veterinary Assistant I Trainee. This vital position supports the health and wellbeing of animals in our care by performing essential animal husbandry, sanitation, and medical support duties. If you have a passion for animals and want to contribute to our life-saving mission, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities:
- Clean and disinfect animal enclosures, equipment, and facilities (both indoor and outdoor).
- Provide food, water, and basic care for animals, including dogs, cats, and small mammals.
- Monitor animal medical conditions and follow treatment plans as directed by the veterinary team.
- Administer medications and assist with euthanasia-related tasks, including aftercare and cremation, under supervision.
- Exercise and handle animals during cleaning, transfer, or transport.
- Support veterinary staff in medical procedures and recovery areas when needed.
- Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in common and staff areas including bathrooms and laundry.
- Uphold professional and courteous communication with the public, volunteers, and staff.
- Participate in ongoing training and cross-departmental collaboration.
- Follow strict biosecurity protocols in isolation wards to reduce risk of cross-contamination.
- Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or Ged is required
- Ability to walk, bend, twist, and lift up to 55 pounds for extended periods (8-10 hours per day).
- Willingness to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Comfortable working with a variety of animals and bodily fluids.
- Availability to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays.
- Ability to safely use cleaning agents including bleach, hydrogen peroxide, and quaternary ammonium compounds.
- Commitment to learning and following SFAS policies and procedures.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior experience in animal care, veterinary assistance, or shelter work.
- Basic knowledge of animal behavior and safe handling techniques.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and within a team environment.
- Experience with infection control protocols and understanding of zoonotic diseases.
Why Work With Us?
The Santa Fe Animal Shelter is a mission-driven organization dedicated to saving lives, inspiring compassion, and advancing the bond between humans and animals. We offer training opportunities, career advancement potential, and a supportive, purpose-filled workplace.
How to Apply:
How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume and brief cover letter directly to Paul Chavez, HR Manager, at pchavez@sfhumanesociety.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and accepted until the position is filled.