ANIMAL SHELTER SUPERVISOR

DEFINITION

Supervises the operations, programs, and staff of the City's Animal Shelter assuring that humane standards of care are met for all animals; assists with the development and implementation of the goals, policies, procedures, contracts, and budget of the Animal Shelter; acts as a sworn Animal Control Officer for the City; performs other duties as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The Animal Shelter Supervisor is a single position class responsible for the daily operations of the animal shelter program. The incumbent works with a great deal of independence and exercises considerable independent judgment in the management of facilities, programs, and personnel and has considerable public contact.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED

The incumbent works under the direction and supervision of the Finance Director. The incumbent is responsible for the supervision of all Animal Shelter staff including volunteers.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

Oversees the daily operation of the City's animal shelter program; manages kennel operations and programs, including providing paraprofessional animal health care, and maintains standards of conduct, cleanliness and safety.

Assists with front counter operations, including adoptions, redemptions, animal intake and customer services; supervises the pet adoption program including the evaluation of animals for adoptability and euthanasia of unadoptable animals.

Coordinates a public education and outreach program; creates and provides educational materials and training on the proper care of animals; provides information to the press regarding shelter activities; conducts and coordinates fund raising and educational events.

Supervises, trains, coaches, and evaluates full-time and part-time employees and volunteers; recruits and coordinates the Animal Shelter's large volunteer program.

Supervises and, if necessary, cleans and disinfects kennels, feeds and cares for animals.

Works with other department staff and outside vendors/contractors to improve and maintain the facility.

Oversees the purchasing of shelter supplies including pharmaceuticals, maintains records and inventories necessary to operate the facility.

Assists in developing and then monitoring project budgets and expenditures; prepares administrative reports.

Assists Public Safety and other agencies' officers with enforcing the animal control codes and ordinances and with incoming animals; acts as a hearing officer in animal nuisance hearings.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience/Education

Sufficient experience and education to successfully perform the duties of the Animal Shelter Supervisor. A typical way of obtaining the required qualifications is to possess three years' experience in animal shelter management, animal health care management or animal hospital office management which includes supervision of staff, plus sixty (60) college units in Veterinary Technology, Community Services, Business/Management or related field.

Knowledge/Skill/Ability

Knowledge of State and local laws, regulations, codes and ordinances relating to the proper treatment and sheltering of animals; techniques for properly and safely handling and caring for sick, injured, and/or fractious animals; principles of supervision and teambuilding; basic understanding of pharmaceuticals commonly used in the treatment of animals; basic understanding of the public budgeting process; able to communicate effectively in writing and methods for making effective public presentations to all ages; the use of computers for e-mail communication, compiling statistics and general usage.

Ability to oversee the operation of an animal shelter; handle a variety of animals safely and in a humane fashion; effectively oversee the expenditure of funds and develop budget recommendations; deal effectively and tactfully with pet owners and the public; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with other departments and agencies.

Working Conditions

Position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting, and stooping in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement, and fine coordination in preparing statistical reports and data, using a computer keyboard. Additionally, the position requires near, far, and color vision in performing medical procedures and using the computer, and hearing is required when providing phone and counter service. The use of a computer, and hearing is required when providing phone and counter service.

The incumbent is frequently around animals that are agitated or injured that may attempt to bite or scratch. The need to lift and carry animals and equipment weighing in excess of 50 pounds also is required. Flexibility of hours is essential.

License/Certificate

Possession of a Class C California driver's license by date of appointment. Euthanasia Certificate will be required within the probation period. Completion of PC 832 Arrest and Firearms course is required to be sworn in as an Animal Control Officer within six months of employment.