Shelter Manager

Overview:

The Shelter Manager provides leadership and oversight for the daily operations of Safe Haven of Iowa County. This role is responsible for coordinating services, managing programs and employees, and ensuring the shelter operates efficiently and compassionately. The manager works to enhance animal care, maintain and improve facilities and equipment, and support a high standard of service. Additionally, this position plays a key role in building and maintaining positive, professional relationships with the community, partners, and supporters.

Duties:

Collaborate with volunteer surgery coordinators to ensure appropriate intake of new animals and coordinate with board members, staff, and volunteers to ensure proper housing and care. Oversees that all documentation is accurate and up-to-date on intake and medical records for all animals in the care of Safe Haven. Coordinate with website users to ensure complete and engaging animal profiles are created and maintained for the website, including photos and descriptions; regularly update listings for adoptions, new arrivals, and missing information. Assist with social media posts, including photos and storytelling. Provide a weekly email update to dog-side volunteers with current information and needs. Schedule veterinary appointments and arrange transportation for animals requiring off-site care as needed; ensure proper documentation is completed for all visits. Collaborate food inventory to maintain adequate supplies for both dogs and cats. Supervise shelter staff by coordinating onboarding, scheduling, daily direction, and performance evaluation. Submit hiring and termination recommendations to the Board of Directors for final approval. Process payroll administration bi-weekly by reviewing and submitting timecards to the accounting service; distribute pay stubs following approval. Support and participate in fundraising initiatives and educational events. Attend monthly Board of Directors meetings as a non-voting participant and communicate key operational updates. Coordinate routine and seasonal facility maintenance, working with appropriate contacts and notifying the Board of any significant needs or concerns. Research, write, and submit grant applications to secure funding for Board-approved projects and initiatives.

Competencies:

Leadership & Team Management

• Ability to lead, motivate, and support staff and volunteers while fostering a positive, mission-driven culture. Animal Care Knowledge
• Understanding of proper animal handling, health monitoring, behavior, and welfare standards for dogs and cats. Organizational & Time Management
• Effectively prioritizes tasks, manages multiple responsibilities, and ensures smooth daily operations. Communication Skills
• Clear, professional communication with staff, volunteers, board members, adopters, and the public. Problem-Solving & Decision-Making
• Ability to assess situations quickly and make sound, compassionate decisions in both routine and high-pressure scenarios including employee concerns. Attention to Detail
• Ensures accuracy in record keeping, medical documentation, and operational processes. Customer Service & Community Engagement
• Builds positive relationships with adopters, donors, and community partners while representing the organization professionally. Emotional Resilience
• Maintains composure and professionalism in a fast-paced, sometimes emotionally challenging environment. Financial & Resource Management
• Oversees budgets, inventory, and resource allocation responsibly.

Environment:

This position operates within a no-kill animal shelter environment and requires regular, hands-on interaction with dogs and cats to ensure their safety, health, and well-being. The role involves frequent standing, walking, and use of hands for handling animals, equipment, and supplies, as well as reaching and performing physical tasks throughout the facility. The Shelter Manager must be comfortable lifting and carrying items exceeding 20 pounds, including pet food and supplies, and may be required to safely restrain animals of varying sizes. This position also includes administrative responsibilities requiring the use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and copiers, along with proficiency in common computer applications and data management systems.

Expected Hours of Work:

This hourly position has a typical average of approximately 35 hours per week, typically scheduled Monday through Friday. Weekend hours may be required based on schedules; work hours may vary based on the operational needs of the shelter, including animal care demands, staffing needs, and special events.

Preferred Education and Experience:

High School Diploma At least two years experience in animal rescue is preferred Prefer supervisory experience

Disclaimer:

This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all duties, responsibilities, or activities required for this position. Duties and responsibilities may change or be reassigned at any time, with or without notice, based on the needs of the organization.

Pay:

$16.00

• $20.

00 per hour

Work Location:

In person