Kennel Lead

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Kennel Manager, the Kennel Lead works closely with the Animal Care teams to maintain our Standard Operating Procedures with the staff and clients. They act as the point person for questions or issues that may arise when the Managers are not on premise or are otherwise occupied. The Kennel Lead provides a high standard of animal care to ensure the welfare of animals ert’s.

They create a healthy environment for all animals by monitoring their behavior, maintaining the cleanliness of kennels and surrounding areas. Kennel Leads will be assigned at our Madison campus but may be asked to work at another site when needed.

• Maintain a high standard of animal care and welfare, overseeing scheduled feedings, medications, clean water at all times, proper bedding and enrichment toys.
• Properly clean and sanitize kennels, rooms, cages, equipment and areas of shelter as assigned, according to St. Hubert’s Standard Operating Procedures.
• Bathe or clean animals on a regular schedule or immediately if they become soiled.
• Exercise and socialize with animals on a regular basis while abiding to St. Hubert’s dog walking policies.
• Observe and document unusual behavior, signs of illness and any injury of an animal on a daily basis. Communicate vital information to medical, behavior, and adoptions departments as needed.
• Restrain, confine, and handle animals, including those which are ill, injured, quarantined, and aggressive.
• Make sure all animal rooms are appropriately stocked at all times for morning cleaning and daily care.
• Clean all animal areas outside of the rooms including but not limited to hallways, kitchen areas, inventory areas and special rooms.
• Have complete understanding of N.J.A.C 823a.
• Monitor daily laundry washing, folding and stocking.
• Conduct Lost and Found tours with members of the public.
• Be knowledgeable and conversational on St. Hubert’s policies and common animal welfare practices.
• Proficient in humane medical animal handling practices.
• Able to troubleshoot questions and concerns from staff or clients when managers are not on site or are otherwise occupied.
• Always represent St. Hubert’s in professional and courteous manner. Provide quality service to public, volunteers, and employees recognizing their individual contributions to the success of the organization.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Basic knowledge of animal restraint and handling techniques, as well as general animal safety practices, including recognizing animal breeds and behavior patterns.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills with the ability to multi-task.
• Passion for the Humane Rescue Alliance mission, for caring for all animals regardless of age, breed, temperament, or species, and supporting and educating members of the public, free of judgment or bias.
• Work collaboratively and with confidence in a high-stress, fast-paced work environment.
• Ability to work effectively, both independently and in a team environment, in an atmosphere of multiple projects, shifting priorities, and deadline pressures. Ability to be flexible, detail-oriented, and able to prioritize.
• Ability to positively interact with colleagues, coworkers, and community members from widely varied backgrounds with integrity and honesty throughout all facets of the position, maintaining confidentiality at all times.
• Reliability, high level of integrity and punctuality are essential.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; bilingual a plus.
• Proficient in the use and application of computer technology with proficient use of programs including Microsoft Office programs, the internet, and database management software to efficiently accomplish work.
• Highly motivated and creative with experience and a passion for connecting with current and future clients.
• Able to work well under pressure, in emotionally charged situations and handle confrontation politely and professionally while finding a solution.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform…