Operations Manager

SUMMARY:

This position manages the operational aspects of the shelter and collaborates with the Executive Director, Pathways Manager, and Medical Assistant to ensure the safety and comfort of animals in Stray Hearts' care. Key responsibilities include overseeing the facility, managing front desk operations and public interactions, coordinating volunteer engagement and scheduling, supporting the shelter food bank program, creating and implementing policies and standard operating procedures, and maintaining accurate records and data related to animal care and shelter populations. This position collaborates with other members of the leadership staff to ensure the effective, efficient, and consistent delivery of the Stray Hearts mission.

ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE

The Stray Hearts Animal Shelter is grounded in a culture of compassionate care, clinical excellence, and community service. Our team works collaboratively in a high-volume, mission-driven environment where every role is vital to the well-being of animals and the trust of the community we serve. We prioritize respect, teamwork, and adaptability. Each team member is expected to approach their work with empathy, professionalism, and a shared commitment to reducing barriers to care. In our organization, culture means supporting one another through challenges, celebrating lifesaving wins, and continuously striving to improve how we serve both pets and people. We welcome team members who lead with humility, teach with intention, and practice with heart.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

Coordinate and oversee shelter volunteer programs including recruitment, onboarding, training, scheduling, and retention. Serve as the primary point of contact for volunteers, ensuring clear communication and a positive volunteer experience. Facilitate volunteer orientation and ensure volunteers understand shelter policies, safety procedures, and animal handling guidelines. Work with staff to match volunteers to operational needs including animal care, front desk support, community events, and food bank assistance. Track volunteer participation and assist with volunteer recognition and appreciation efforts.

STAFF SUPERVISION

Directly supervises front desk staff With the support of the Executive Director, implements the full hiring & employment cycle. In conjunction with the Executive Director, ensures new hires, evaluations, performance improvement plans, documentation, and employment terminations are completed in accordance with the Employee Handbook. Onboard, train, and support a team of front desk staff and volunteers. Manage scheduling for front desk staff, ensuring sufficient coverage for essential shelter operations. Address and resolve interpersonal conflicts among shelter staff, volunteers, and members of the public in a timely and professional manner. Front Desk & Public Services Oversee daily front desk operations including visitor interactions, intake inquiries, adoption appointments, phone communication, and public information requests. Ensure front desk staff maintain accurate records in ShelterLuv and provide professional, compassionate service to the public. Develop and maintain procedures for front desk operations to ensure consistent and efficient service. Facility & Administrative Operations Assist with the oversight, coordination, and reporting of the Stray Hearts food bank program. Ensure public and common staff areas are clean, staffed, and maintained. Monitor and address daily facility maintenance needs to ensure the shelter remains safe, sanitary, and functional for animals, staff, volunteers, and visitors. Identify facility maintenance, repair, or improvement needs and determine how to address them within budget. Perform minor facility repairs and maintenance tasks when feasible in order to reduce operational costs and maintain safe, functional shelter operations. Obtain quotes for facility maintenance and larger repairs when outside services are required, communicate cost information, and ensure work is completed satisfactorily. Monitor and maintain compliance with local, state, and federal licensing and regulatory requirements, including coordinating annual shelter license renewals, inspections, and required documentation. Track licensing deadlines and ensure all necessary paperwork, fees, and records are submitted in a timely manner. Work with the Grant Manager to support funding opportunities and reporting needs. Assist coordination with suppliers, vendors, and contractors. Maintain shelter vehicles including licensing renewals, registration, routine maintenance, and coordination of repairs. Ensure timely data management and reporting as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

AND EXPERIENCE

High School Diploma or GED, Associate or Bachelors degree preferred Basic knowledge of business practices, ability to understand budgets and shelter statistics. At least one year of supervisory or management experience, preferably in an animal care facility. Ability to lead and maintain a high level of professionalism while representing Stray Hearts within the community and with vendors. Ability to prioritize and follow tasks through to timely completion. Computer knowledge and skills. Proficiency in MicroSoft and Google Suites. Experience with Canva and ShelterLuv preferred. Ability to communicate through social media. Possess and demonstrate enthusiasm and passion for the humane treatment of animals. Certification in Shelter Management or equivalent experience preferred.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to read, write and speak in English. Proficiency in Spanish desired. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Proven ability to navigate difficult situations. Must be a detail oriented, organized individual with the ability to multi-task. Must have the ability to understand procedures and regulations and adhere to them. Must have a strong sense of accountability and ability to work in a fast paced environment. Must have the ability to read, analyze and interpret basic instructions furnished in written, oral or diagram form.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of the position, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, turn, use hands and fingers to handle and feel, reach with hands and arms, talk, and hear. Must be able to lift, carry, push and or pull up to 50lbs. Must be able to work at a fast pace and in stressful situations. Must be able to maneuver around the office and the facility, as needed. Must be able to work various hours including nights and weekends. Physical ability to safely perform the essential job functions of the position. Must be comfortable working in an environment with animals of all types, sounds, and scents.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. Employee duties are performed indoors in climate-controlled space as well as outside with exposure to weather. Hazards include working with and around animals, equipment and chemicals. All must be properly handled or they can be potentially hazardous.

COMPENSATION

This is a salaried, full time exempt position at $46,000/year. To apply, go to and download the application, or send a letter of interest and background information to .

TO APPLY

Send a resume, along with a short blurb about yourself and why you are interested in working for Stray Hearts to ed@strayhearts.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Stray Hearts Animal Shelter is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against candidates or employees based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, military status, veteran status, genetic history or any other protected status. Stray Hearts encourages all qualified individuals to apply.

Pay:

$46,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Paid time off Professional development assistance

Work Location:

In person