Shelter Manager
Job Description
Job DescriptionSalary:
Shelter Manager
Position Summary:
The Shelter Manager leads daily operations within the shelter, ensuring animals receive appropriate
care, staff remain aligned with performance expectations, and departmental goals are consistently
met. This position requires strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and the ability to balance
people and animal needs with limited resources. Youll be responsible for flow-through planning,
training, and performance coaching, while working closely with other departments to maintain a
high standard of care and safety.
Key Responsibilities
Facilitate animal flow and pathway planning to align with the shelters available resources and
capacity for care
Oversee daily shelter operations including animal intake, outcomes, and general care
Coordinate with other teams to manage stressors, disease control, and quality of life in the
shelter environment
Develop training and programs to promote understanding of shelter-based animal care,
behavior, and safe handling
Make recommendations regarding animal outcomes including adoption, foster, medical or
behavioral intervention, transfer, or euthanasia
Provide feedback, coaching, and support to staff to meet performance expectations and
shelter demands
Address employee work style, pace, and collaboration to align with organizational needs
Monitor and ensure daily fulfillment of animals physical and behavioral needs, as well as
safety protocols
Implement and enforce policies and procedures related to animal husbandry, medical care,
behavior, and sanitation
Maintain accurate records of animal care and outcome activities
Collaborate with the Executive Director on goal-setting and strategic improvements
Prepare and present progress reports on shelter operations and departmental performance
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelors degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Science, or a related field, or equivalent
combination of education and experience
35 years of experience in animal care, field services, or shelter management
Strong leadership and supervisory skills with the ability to delegate, coach, and hold staff
accountable
Knowledge of animal health, behavior, and shelter operations including sanitation and safety
practices
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, emotionally charged environment with competing
priorities
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Proficient in Microsoft Office and shelter management software
CPDT-KA, CDBC, or CSB-D preferred but not required
Passion for animal welfare and the ability to lead a diverse team
Physical Demands
This role requires both administrative and physical work. The employee must be able to:
Move throughout the shelter for extended periods
Lift, carry, or position items weighing up to 50 pounds
Work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions
Handle exposure to loud noise, animal waste, cleaning chemicals, and the risk of bites or
scratches
Stoop, kneel, crouch, climb ladders, and communicate clearly with staff and the public