Animal Care and Adoption Specialist I Worcester Animal Rescue League - 4.2 Worcester, MA Job Details Full-time $17.00 - $18.50 an hour 1 day ago Benefits Health insurance Paid time off Qualifications Behavior management Companion animal handling Customer communication Teamwork In-person customer service High school diploma or GED Driver's License Organizational skills Cross-functional collaboration Safety standard operating procedures Standard operating procedures (SOPs) Full Job Description Overview Animal Care & Adoption Specialist I staff are essential to the daily operation of the shelter and the well-being of the animals in our care. This role involves a combination of animal care, behavior support, and intake & adoption services. ACAS I staff must be adaptable to the changing needs of the shelter, providing excellent service to both animals and clients, and show commitment to mission of the Worcester Animal Rescue League (WARL). As ambassadors of
WARL, ACAS I
staff must show a high level of professionalism, interpersonal skills, and strong customer service. Schedule This is a full-time, 40 hour/week position with benefits. Current openings are available for the following schedules: Sunday-Thursday Tuesday-Saturday Shifts are daytime hours and include weekend and holiday coverage as required by shelter operations. Responsibilities Job responsibilities include but are not limited to: Animal Care
- Must be able to handle a wide variety of animals effectively, safely, and in a humane manner.
- Clean and disinfect cages, kennel areas, exercise space, and other shelter related areas including public spaces.
- Provide species appropriate food, water, bedding, and enrichment to a variety of animals.
- Vaccinate, medicate, bathe, and groom as directed, including administering all daily medications.
- Evaluate and monitor the health and behavior of animals upon intake and in the shelter.
- Effectively take and record data for behavior logs.
- Participate in training protocols and behavior plans for dogs, cats, and other species in the shelter.
- Assist, document, and discuss behavioral evaluations with Program Management staff in accordance with standards set by WARL.
- Support and assist in euthanasia procedures when necessary, with a focus on maintaining a respectful and compassionate approach. Client Relations
- Provide a high quality and judgement-free customer service to clients, volunteers, and staff while promoting WARL's mission.
- Must be able to guide clients efficiently through adoption and surrender processes.
- Responsible for answering telephone calls, and returning voicemails and emails throughout the day in a timely manner.
- Promote and demonstrate kindness, empathy, and understanding in all interactions with clients, donors, volunteers, staff, etc. Administrative
- Must learn and proficiently use all software systems utilized by WARL (e.g. PetPoint, Microsoft Suites, Google Workspace, etc.).
- Must complete all data entry neatly, accurately, and in a timely manner. This includes surrender and intake forms, adoption agreements, medical records & logs, etc.
- Responsible for monetary and credit card transactions for adoptions, donations, sales, etc. Other
- Mentor and guide new ACAS I staff.
- Maintain all areas in a clean and organized fashion.
- Participate in scheduled staff meetings and trainings.
- May be responsible for other duties as assigned by direct supervisors or managerial staff. Qualifications The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required to perform each essential duty satisfactorily:
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED) is required.
- Driver's license preferred.
- Must have a positive, adaptable, and team-oriented mindset, comfortable in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills with the ability to remain calm and constructive in difficult or emotional situations.
- Capable of working independently while collaborating effectively with team members across the organization.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities efficiently.
- Support colleagues and contribute to a cooperative, respectful workplace culture.
- Able to consistently follow safety practices and standard operating procedures.
- Physically able to perform the essential duties of animal care, including handling animals, lifting up to 50lbs., and carrying, reaching, standing, stooping, squatting; moving about the facility. May be exposed to sick, deceased, fractious, or aggressive animals. Reasonable accommodations will be considered for qualified applicants under the ADA. Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge and skill in basic animal care and handling techniques.
Shift Requirements This is a full-time, 40 hours per week position requiring coverage across weekdays, weekends, select holidays, and occasional evenings or special events. Supervision This position receives day-to-day supervision and task direction from the Animal Care & Adoption Specialist - Team Lead. The Shelter Manager provides overall managerial oversight, including scheduling, performance reviews, policy guidance, and changes to job duties or protocols
Supervision Exercised:
None. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement WARL is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. We are committed to providing equal opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity or expression, age, marital or domestic partner status, citizenship status, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodations under the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state or local laws. A reasonable accommodation is any modification or adjustment to the position or hiring process that enables an individual with a disability to perform the essential functions of the job or complete the application process without causing undue hardship. If you require any accommodations to complete the application process, please notify the WARL leadership team.
Pay:
$17.00 - $18.50 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
Health insurance Paid time off
Work Location:
In person