Animal Care Specialist; PT

Position:
Animal Care Specialist Part-Time

Location: Annenberg Pet Space, Playa Vista

Annenberg Pet Space is a unique community space featuring pet adoptions, a humane education program, and a leadership institute for animal science and welfare advancement. The organization focuses on the bond between people and their pets, as well as the origins and community impact of that relationship.

The Animal Care Specialist I is responsible for providing high-quality care to the animals within Pet Space, ensuring proper cleaning protocols for all animal care areas, and following proper training and enrichment protocols. This role also provides counseling and education for the general public when appropriate.

The schedule for this position is up to three and a half days per week (Monday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday availability required). Shift times may vary: 6:30am – 3:00pm or 11:30am – 8:00pm.

Must be 18 years or older to be employed with Wallis Annenberg Pet Space.

• The following is a representative summary of major duties and responsibilities. Incumbents may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be asked to perform additional tasks as needed.
• Clean and maintain all animal care areas, providing proper animal husbandry while following approved procedures and using appropriate products
• Feed all animals their required diet and in the appropriate rations
• Provide enrichment to animals, including using exercise areas/walks, activities, and human companionship
• Complete daily health and behavior observations of all animals
• Participate in behavior shaping/training of animals to enhance adoptability
• Assist with morning, mid-day and evening duties as appropriate
• Assist with grooming and bathing of animals as needed
• Ensure all dishes, laundry, and animal carriers are sanitized daily
• Restock and perform inventory of animal care areas
• Update and maintain the adoption software with adoption content (e.g., animal photos, descriptions)
• Train volunteers on the proper techniques for successful animal care
• Coordinate with staff and volunteers to ensure best animal handling practices
• Ensure all operational procedures are followed
• Communicate effectively and professionally with the public and Annenberg Pet Space staff
• Assist with training and supervision of volunteers
• Represent Annenberg Pet Space in a professional and courteous manner at all times

Minimum of 1 year working in animal welfare, preferably in an animal shelter or rescue organization.

• Excellent animal handling skills
• Excellent customer service skills
• Basic knowledge to understand aspects of disease and the causes and treatment of animal-related problems
• Critical evaluation and observation skills
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and selected software/databases
• Effective written and oral communication skills with ability to compose routine correspondence
• Ability to work efficiently and calmly under challenging conditions
• Poise, professionalism, diplomacy, teamwork, and the ability to interact with people from all walks of life
• Commitment to and passion for the mission of Wallis Annenberg Pet Space

Must be able to stand, walk, sit, talk and hear; stoop, bend, squat, kneel, grasp, and reach above and below shoulder level; lift, push or pull up to 80 pounds for situations involving restraining or moving animals and lifting food and supplies; repetitively use hands to operate computers; flex the neck and twist the body. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Standard office environment with exposure to conditions that include working near and caring for animals.

• Sick days
• Company paid holidays
• Gym membership
• 403(b) retirement plan with 10% company contribution after 1 year of employment
• Free pet adoption
• Generous retail store discounts
• Opportunity for an annual performance bonus (discretionary and not guaranteed)

The organization emphasizes employee well-being through wellness initiatives and meaningful celebrations. Wallis Annenberg Legacy Foundation, Pet Space, is committed to respecting the uniqueness of each employee and fostering an inclusive culture.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please contact Recruiting.