Senior Operations Manager

Overview

Senior Operations Manager for Animal Care and Protective Services (ACPS). Reports to the Chief of Animal Care & Protective Services and provides day-to-day operational leadership, supervises management staff, and acts on behalf of the Chief in their absence. Responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and administration of ACPS, including oversight of the shelter’s operational divisions (Animal Services and the Shelter Medical staff) and support for internal and external programs as needed.

Ensures consistent execution of policies, effective communication across divisions, and alignment with the City’s mission to protect animals, serve the community, and promote lifesaving outcomes.

• Provide direct supervision to the Animal Services Division, Internal Animal Programs Manager, and External Animal Programs Manager.
• Coordinate and align departmental goals to ensure consistent communication, operational efficiency, and mission-driven outcomes.
• Oversee the delivery of animal field services and shelter medical programs.
• Assist with internal and external animal programs as needed; ensure compliance with local, state, and federal animal welfare regulations, as well as City ordinances and policies.
• Collaborate with the Administrative Programs Manager to ensure accurate data reporting, public communications, and technology support across divisions.
• Assist the Animal Services Officer Supervisor to develop and recommend new or revised animal services field and dispatch programs, policies, goals, and objectives to ensure efficiency and customer satisfaction.
• Assist the Veterinarians and Veterinary Technician Supervisor to update and review ACPS medical protocols (e.g., vaccine protocols, medical and surgical treatments/procedures, feeding and cleaning methods) and implement infectious disease control.
• Assist the Chief in developing and implementing strategic plans, operational policies, and standard procedures.
• Manage daily shelter operations, identify cross-departmental challenges, and facilitate problem resolution.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and professional development to management and supervisory staff.
• Oversee the preparation of performance metrics, operational reports, and budget recommendations.
• Serve as Acting Chief in the absence of the Chief of Animal Care & Protective Services.
• Coordinate with external partners, rescue organizations, and government agencies to enhance community collaboration and animal welfare outcomes.
• Ensure consistent, compassionate, and equitable enforcement of animal care and protection standards.
• Represent the department at City meetings, community events, and professional forums.
• Promote a positive, collaborative work culture emphasizing accountability, communication, and teamwork.
• Perform related work as required.

• Five (5) years of education and/or professional experience in animal welfare, public administration, or a related field, which includes at least two (2) years of supervisory or management experience in a non-profit or municipal animal shelter is required.
• Animal Control and/or Shelter Medicine experience is preferred.
• A bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Management, Animal Science, or a related field is preferred.

A FULLY COMPLETED ONLINE APPLICATION IS REQUIRED. Apply ksonville.gov. Work history is required for all employment/volunteer work on which qualifications are based. When meeting qualifications on education, a copy of your college transcript (socials blacked out) is required with your application. Transcripts do not need to be official, but must state your name, the school’s name, classes taken, grades received, type of degree, and date degree was conferred.

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Veterans' preference and related benefits:
Certain service members, veterans, and spouses/family members may receive preference or waivers for postsecondary requirements in employment and are encouraged to apply. If claiming veteran’s preference, attach DD-214 (Member Form-4 copy) or equivalent certification, the Veterans Preference Certification Form, and applicable forms as noted:  If a candidate believes they were not afforded veteran’s preference, they may file a written complaint within 60 calendar days upon receipt of notification of the hiring decision with the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs at the address listed above, or via email:
Veterans Preferencete.fl.us.