Job Description
Who We Are The Humane Society of Jefferson County, Washington (HSJCWA) is a nonprofit, open-admission animal shelter dedicated to improving the lives of companion animals and the people who care for them. Through adoptions, low-cost spay and neuter services, licensing, behavior support, and community education, we work to create a future where every companion animal receives compassionate care and appropriate housing. Our Mission To improve the lives of companion animals and people through community engagement, education, responsible pet ownership, and high-quality animal welfare services. Our Values Compassion, Inclusivity, Collaboration, Teamwork, Education, Stewardship, Transparency. The Opportunity The Administrative & Animal Care Assistant plays a vital role in supporting both the public-facing and animal care functions of the shelter. As the first point of contact for visitors, adopters, and community members, this position provides exceptional customer service while helping ensure the health, safety, and well-being of shelter animals. Working as part of a cross-trained team, the Administrative & Animal Care Assistant supports daily shelter operations through administrative tasks, adoption services, animal care, facility maintenance, and community engagement. The ideal candidate is organized, adaptable, compassionate, and comfortable working with animals of various species, sizes, and temperaments. This is a full-time (40hrs/wk), on-site position that reports to the Shelter Operations Manager and offers the following benefits:
Competitive Compensation:
$20.00-$22.00 hourly wage; dependent on experience, skills, and certifications. (10) Paid Holidays:
New Year's Day, MLK Jr Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Indigenous People's Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day Paid Vacation:
Begins accruing immediately, available after successful 90-day introductory period; based on 40hrs/wk: 80 hours for years 0-2, 120 hours for years 3+ (pro-rated for p/t) Medical Insurance:
100% employer paid for employee; available at-cost for employee's dependents Dental Insurance:
Optional add-on at employee's expense Sick Leave:
Per WA state guidelines CE & Career Development:
$250/year; potentially higher, dependent upon financial health of organization Work Uniform Credit:
$75/every other year for clothing/footwear applicable to working conditions while on-the-job Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Administrative & Customer Service Provide outstanding customer service to adopters, pet owners, volunteers, and community members. Assist with adoption counseling, animal licensing, public veterinary services, and intake processes. Answer and direct phone calls, emails, voicemails, and in-person inquiries professionally and efficiently. Schedule appointments for adoptions, animal reclaims, owner surrenders, licensing, and other shelter services. Prepare adoption and intake paperwork and maintain accurate records within shelter databases and filing systems. Maintain knowledge of available animals and assist prospective adopters in identifying appropriate matches. Create engaging animal profiles and obtain photos to support adoption promotion efforts. Receive, process, and organize donations. Support front desk operations and help ensure a welcoming, positive experience for all visitors. Perform other administrative duties as assigned. Animal Care & Shelter Operations Clean and disinfect animal housing areas following established disease prevention and sanitation protocols. Maintain clean and safe public and staff areas, including restrooms, floors, and common spaces. Observe animals daily for signs of illness, injury, stress, or behavioral changes and communicate concerns promptly. Assist with animal intake procedures and collect accurate information from owners, finders, and community members. Facilitate safe and positive introductions between adopters and animals. Assist with dog-to-dog introductions under established shelter protocols. Prepare and provide enrichment activities to promote physical and behavioral well-being. Support the overall health, comfort, and welfare of shelter animals. Team Collaboration Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers to maintain high standards of animal care and customer service. Participate in cross-training opportunities across shelter departments. Contribute to a positive, respectful, and mission-driven workplace culture. Assist with special projects, events, and additional duties as assigned. Qualifications:
Preferred Experience Experience in an animal shelter, veterinary clinic, boarding facility, rescue organization, or similar animal care environment. Experience in customer service, administrative support, or reception work. Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Strong written and verbal communication skills. Excellent organizational, time-management, and multitasking abilities. Ability to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a team. Strong problem-solving skills, initiative, and adaptability. Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate records. Basic computer proficiency and ability to learn shelter management software. Commitment to Animal Welfare Demonstrated passion for animal welfare and humane care. Compassionate, respectful, and nonjudgmental approach when working with diverse populations. Commitment to responsible pet ownership, enrichment, and successful adoption outcomes. Interest in continued learning related to animal behavior, handling, training, and welfare. Flexibility & Resilience Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in fast-paced or emotionally challenging situations. Willingness to perform a variety of duties in support of shelter operations. Availability to work weekends, holidays, evenings, and special events as needed. Physical Requirements & Work Environment This position requires: Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and lifting. Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Regular exposure to cleaning products, animal dander, noise, and outdoor weather conditions. Direct interaction with dogs and cats of varying sizes, temperaments, and behavioral histories. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced shelter environment while maintaining high standards of care and customer service. Conclusion As an Administrative & Animal Care Assistant, you will make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals and people throughout Jefferson County. This role offers hands-on experience across multiple areas of animal welfare while providing opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and community engagement. If you are passionate about animal welfare, thrive in a collaborative environment, and want to make a positive impact in your community, we encourage you to apply. Job Type:
Full-time Pay:
$20.00 - $22.00 per hour Benefits:
Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Uniform allowance Application Question(s): Please share what working in the animal welfare industry means to you and specifically, why you want to work in an animal shelter setting. Do you understand that this is a hands-on, physically labor intensive position that requires interacting with BOTH animals and people? Do you support humane euthanasia of animals for behavioral and medical reasons that are unmanageable, untreatable, and/or unsafe to adopt out? Please explain. Ability to Commute:
Port Townsend, WA 98368 (Required) Work Location:
In person
