Animal Care Technician

Provides care for impounded dogs and cats in the county animal shelter. An employee in this class performs tasks associated with care of impounded animals and general cleaning of the kennel and cattery areas. Work involves feeding animals, moving animals from one enclosure to another, and cleaning primary animal enclosures, laundry, and other kennel areas following strict cleaning and disinfection protocols based on the Animal Welfare Act.

Work also involves assisting the shelter manager with euthanasia, vaccination, and de‑worming of animals as needed. Employee is subject to the usual hazards of handling dogs and cats. Work is performed under the general supervision of the shelter veterinarian and shelter manager but ability to follow specific protocols independently of direct supervision is expected. Weekend and holiday work may be required.

Employee is also cross‑trained to cover front desk duties and to counsel potential adopters as needed.

• Feeds impounded animals following specific protocols.
• Moves animals from one enclosure to another as needed.
• Cleans & disinfects both cat and dog enclosures, including cleaning litter pans, following specific protocols.
• Washes dog and cat bedding and other kennel laundry daily.
• Provides social interaction with dogs and cats to enhance their adoptability.
• Assists shelter veterinarian or shelter manager with euthanasia, vaccination, and de‑worming as required.
• Assists with transporting animals and picking up donations when needed.

• Shares responsibility for counseling potential adopters.
• Shares responsibility for front desk coverage.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Working knowledge of handling of dogs and cats, especially poorly socialized ones with little or no training.
• Working knowledge of safety practices concerning the handling of dogs and cats.
• Ability to understand and carry out oral instructions as well as step‑by‑step written protocols.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to handle fearful and untamed animals with compassion and empathy.

• Graduation from high school or GED and strongly prefer someone with experience as a veterinary technician or assistant or with experience in a commercial kennel setting or a combination of education and experience.
• Possession of a valid North Carolina driver’s license.