Animal Shelter Manager

Job Description/Summary The Shelter Manager has a key role in achieving The Humane Society of Sandusky County's mission to rescue, protect, and advocate for animals in need by providing compassionate care, rehabilitation, and rehoming services. We work to reduce pet overpopulation through education and the promotion of spay and neuter practices, while offering temporary resources that help animals remain in their current homes. Through collaboration with families, volunteers, and community partners, we strive to build a compassionate, informed community dedicated to preventing cruelty, supporting responsible pet ownership, and ensuring the humane treatment of all animals—today and in the future. Primary focus is the overall daily operations, humane care of resident animals, and leadership of staff and volunteers to fulfill the organization's mission. This role balances high-level administrative tasks, such as maintaining official records and community outreach, with hands-on oversight of animal welfare and facility maintenance. The Shelter Manager also acts as the "face" of the organization, requiring a unique blend of high-level customer service and a deep understanding of the non-profit landscape.

Core Responsibilities Scheduling & Workforce Planning:

Creating equitable staff assignments and managing attendance to ensure 24/7 coverage for the animals.

Recruitment & Retention:

Overseeing the full employee lifecycle, from interviewing and hiring to conducting regular performance reviews and managing staff development.

Conflict Resolution & Diplomacy:

Acting as the primary point of contact for addressing employee concerns and maintaining a professional work culture through tact and discretion.

Volunteer Stewardship:

Working with volunteer coordinators to recruit and train community members who support daily operations. Building a sense of community by recognizing contributions and providing clear pathways for volunteers to advance their skills.

Safety Training:

Ensuring all personnel—paid or unpaid—are fully trained in humane animal handling and facility protocols to prevent injuries.

Public Relations & De-escalation:

Must provide exceptional service to potential adopters, donors, and the general public. This often involves handling emotionally charged situations, such as surrenders or difficult adoptions, with empathy and professionalism.

Community Outreach & Fundraising:

Represent the shelter at public events, manage social media or marketing for animal adoptions, and lead fundraising initiatives.

Operational Management:

Oversee facility cleanliness, safety compliance (e.g., OSHA), and general maintenance. Develop and implement shelter-operating procedures.

Non-Profit Literacy & Mission-Driven Leadership:

Every operational decision must align with the shelter's mission and the expectations of its Board of Directors.

Required Skills & Qualifications Experience:

Requires 2-3+ years of experience in animal welfare or shelter operations, with at least 1-2+ years in a leadership or supervisory role.

Education:

High School Diploma required. Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Public Administration, or a related field a plus.

Physical Demands:

Ability to lift (often up to 50-100 lbs), restrain animals, and perform strenuous manual labor.

Technical Knowledge:

Familiarity with animal behavior (e.g., Fear Free techniques), species-specific handling, and knowledge of local/state animal welfare. Valid Driver's License with an insurable driving record

Pay:

$14.00 - $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Life insurance On-the-job training Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person