Animal Care Specialist 2

Animal Care Specialist Pay:

17.00-$17.50 per hour DOE Are you looking for a rewarding, meaningful job? Do you want to go home tired knowing you cared for and advocated for abandoned animals who cannot speak or care for themselves? The Humane Society of Pagosa Springs is seeking a dedicated, compassionate, and reliable Animal Care Specialist to join our team. This position plays a critical role in providing daily care, enrichment, and support for the homeless pets in our shelter while helping create a safe, clean, and positive environment for both animals and visitors. The ideal candidate is hardworking, dependable, team-oriented, and passionate about animal welfare and quality care for shelter pets. Above-average dependability and attendance are essential, as the animals in our care rely on us every single day. Job Responsibilities Provide daily care for shelter animals, including feeding, cleaning, exercising, and enrichment activities. Conduct important enrichment and training programs to help ensure all dogs and cats in our care receive current, proven, stress-reducing enrichment and behavioral support on a daily basis. Monitor animal health and behavior and promptly report concerns to supervisors. Maintain cleanliness and organization of kennels, cat rooms, play yards, and animal housing areas. Safely and effectively handle dogs and cats during daily care, enrichment, intake, and emergency situations. Assist with adoption meet-and-greets and engage positively with potential adopters. Provide the highest levels of customer service and represent the Humane Society of Pagosa Springs in a professional, informed, and positive manner at all times. Support the promotion and marketing of adoptable animals. Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers to ensure high standards of animal care and shelter operations. Perform physically demanding work, including standing, bending, cleaning, and lifting up to 50 lbs. Preferred Qualifications Experience handling dogs and cats in a shelter, veterinary, kennel, daycare, or related setting preferred. Strong customer service and communication skills. Ability to remain calm and compassionate in a fast-paced environment. Reliability and consistent attendance are critical to the success of the team and the well-being of the animals. Professional dog training certifications or prior shelter experience may qualify for higher starting pay. Additional Requirements Reliable transportation and a good driving record are required. Ability to work weekends and holidays as needed. Above-average dependability and attendance are essential, as the animals in our care rely on us every single day. Benefits Employee discounts on pet-related items and at our thrift store Paid sick time Paid time off Opportunities for training and career growth within animal welfare Equal Employment Opportunity The Humane Society of Pagosa Springs is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal and Colorado employment laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. If you are passionate about helping homeless pets and want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals in our community, we encourage you to apply.

Pay:

$17.00 - $17.50 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount Paid sick time Paid time off

Work Location:

In person