Lead Animal Caretaker Position Available In Miami-Dade, Florida

Lead Animal Caretaker Confidential Miami, FL Job Details Full-time $17.00 – $19.50 an hour 15 hours ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Employee discount Life insurance Retirement plan Qualifications Veterinary Technology Medication administration Mid-level Veterinary clinic High school diploma or GED Driver’s License Supervising experience Animal handling Animal care Leadership Communication skills Time management

Full Job Description Position Title:

Lead Animal Caretaker Classification:

Non-exempt (hourly)

Reports To:

Animal Caretaker Supervisor Wage:

$17.00 – $19,50 per hour

ABOUT US

The Humane Society of Greater Miami (referred to as “Company”) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of animals in need. Our mission is to provide compassionate care, advocacy, and support for animals while educating the community about responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Lead Animal Caretaker plays a pivotal role in ensuring the health, safety, and overall well-being of the animals in our care, while also supporting and guiding animal care staff to uphold high standards of care and shelter operations. The Lead Animal Caretaker is responsible for providing daily care to animals, maintaining clean and sanitary conditions, monitoring animal health, administering basic treatments, and assisting the Lifesaving Care Specialist Supervisor in overseeing the day-to-day functions of the facility. In addition to hands-on animal care, this role includes mentoring, training, and leading care staff and volunteers to ensure consistency in protocols and a compassionate approach to lifesaving work. This multifaceted position requires strong leadership skills, excellent attention to detail, time management, and a deep commitment to animal welfare. The ideal candidate will be confident in handling cats and dogs of various sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions, while also fostering a collaborative and supportive team environment.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Animal Husbandry Provide daily care for animals: Feed, water, and provide proper nutrition to animals according to established schedules and dietary requirements. Including grooming and exercising. Clean and sanitize animal enclosures, including cages, kennels, and habitats, to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of disease. Monitor and record animal behavior, eating habits, and health conditions, reporting any abnormalities to the medical team. Supervision & Training Provide daily supervision and oversight of Lifesaving Care staff, ensuring all protocols are followed and high standards of care are maintained. Mentor and train Lifesaving Care Specialist staff and volunteers on proper care techniques and facility protocols. Lead by example in performing duties related to animal handling, medical treatment support, and housing. Assign tasks, manage daily workflow, and adjust schedules as needed to meet operational demands. Environmental Enrichment Implement enrichment activities and toys to promote mental stimulation and prevent boredom among animals. Provide opportunities for socialization and interaction with other animals and humans to enhance their well-being. Create a comfortable and stimulating environment that meets the physical and psychological needs of animals. Provide behavioral training and rehabilitation for animals with special needs or behavioral issues. Animal Handling & Restraint Safely handle and restrain animals during routine care procedures and examinations. Follow proper protocols for handling different species and temperaments. Health & Wellness Assist with grooming tasks, such as brushing, bathing, and nail trimming, to keep animals clean and healthy. Administer medications as needed under the direction of veterinarians or senior staff. Customer Service Interact with visitors, clients, and potential adopters in a professional and courteous manner. Provide information about animals available for adoption, their personalities, and care requirements. Assist with facilitating adoption meet and greet the animals. Facility Maintenance Assist with opening and closing shifts as needed. Clean and maintain common areas, corridors and outdoor spaces to ensure a clean and welcoming environment for visitors. Operate washing and drying machines, ensuring proper usage and maintenance. Sort, wash, dry, and fold linens, towels, and other laundry items. Loads carts with appropriate inventory of linens for each section. Maintain cleanliness and organization in the laundry room. Handle laundry items with care, following safety guidelines to avoid damage. Stock supplies, such as food, bedding, and cleaning materials, and notify supervisors when inventory is low. Notifies management of any safety hazards, equipment malfunctions, or improper use of equipment and supplies.

QUALIFICATIONS

High school diploma or equivalent; degree or certification in animal science, veterinary technology, or a related field is a plus. A minimum of 2 years of experience working with animals in a shelter, rescue, veterinary clinic, or similar setting is preferred. Experience in a supervisory or leadership role is a plus. Strong knowledge of animal behavior, husbandry, and welfare principles. Ability to handle and restrain animals safely and compassionately. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact with diverse groups of people. Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow instructions accurately. Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. Understanding of species-specific needs and husbandry requirements. Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Lifting and carrying animals and equipment over 50 pounds. Walking, standing, sitting for prolonged periods depending on the task. Frequent reaching, bending, kneeling, squatting, and stooping to care for animals and clean areas. Ability to work in environments that may involve handling animals, dealing with various animal medical conditions, and exposure to animal-related hazards.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Humane Society of Greater Miami offers a comprehensive benefits package, including Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, Paid Time Off, and Employee Discounts on animal adoptions and veterinary services. The Humane Society of Greater Miami is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$17.00 – $19.50 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Schedule:

8 hour shift Evenings as needed Weekends as needed

Work Location:

In person