Kennel Manager

Since 1973, the RHSPCA has been providing compassionate animal care to help pets and people live happier, healthier lives. We offer a full range of services, including adoption options for companion pets and barn cats so that local animals can live better lives in the spaces that suit them best. We also work with a vast network of volunteers who help us care for animals in our shelter and individuals willing to foster pets in their homes.

In addition to our pet matchmaking services, we partner with community members to help manage the outdoor cat population through our Community Cat Program. Across all of these services is our commitment to providing the resources and tools our community needs to improve animal welfare.

JOB TITLE:

Animal Care Manager DEPARTMENT:
Shelter Operations ACCOUNTABILITY:
Director of Operations FUNCTION:
Under the direct responsibility of the Director of Operations, the Animal Care Manager is responsible for managing the animal population in a manner that supports core values of the RHSPCA and optimizes the chances for a positive outcome for the animals. This position oversees the animal care technician positions and associated volunteers. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES General:

• Perform duties in a manner which encourages attainment of RHSPCA goals.
• Work courteously and cooperatively with the staff, volunteers, fosters, adopters, rescue partners, and donors to ensure that all R-H SPCA policies and procedures are followed, and new ones implemented successfully.
• Ensure quality care and humane treatment for the animals in the care of the RHSPCA.
• Assist in implementing operation compliance with current federal, state, county and local laws, regulations and guidelines that affect operations.
• Responsible for accurate record keeping, maintaining data integrity of animal records and statistical reporting for all program(s) related activities.

Animal Population Management:

• Oversees daily cleaning and husbandry for all animals in care; working alongside staff as needed.
• Is responsible for monitoring the behavioral and physical health of animals in the care of the RHSPCA (excludes foster homes).
• Identifies medical and behavioral needs and takes appropriate actions towards resolution.
• Works closely with Animal Health and Foster managers to manage animal population in a manner that reduces length of stay and maximizes likelihood of a positive outcome.
• Facilitates the movement of animals throughout the building.
• Provides oversight for adoption counseling by staff/volunteers and adoption approvals.
• Makes timely and sound recommendations on disposition of animals.
• Assists in coordinating transport to and from veterinary clinics animals needing various procedures.
• Performs behavior assessments as needed.

Staff Management:

• Ensures staff are well trained in policy and standards of care and monitors and ensures compliance in daily practice.
• Sets clear expectations for performance, including measurable goals and deliverables.
• Directs performance of animal care technicians through regular meetings, goal setting, appraisal, and accountability.
• Participates in hiring and performance management activities.
• Oversees staff time off and scheduling, including biweekly review of timesheets, receiving and responding to time off requests, creating schedules and daily assignments to ensure adequate coverage etc.
• Ensures a comprehensive staff training program that focuses on best practice skillsets and continued development for all direct reports. Training should include stress free / safe handling, understanding of behavior and medical concerns, improving the animal’s adoptability, matchmaking with adopters and volunteer engagement / utilization.
• Revise and create SOPs as needed to ensure up to date training and reference resources for staff.

Rapport Building, Matchmaking, and Adoption Counseling

• The Animal Care Manager plays a key leadership role in ensuring adoption counseling practices prioritize long-term placement success and positive experiences for both animals and people. Recognizes the importance of building trust, communication, and thoughtful matchmaking between animals and adopters.
• Provides oversight and staff…