Job Summary The Shenandoah County Animal Shelter is accepting applications for the position of Full Time Animal Caretaker. The Animal Caretaker performs responsible basic work providing quality care to shelter animals, maintaining records and files, and providing a safe, clean environment for shelter animals, co-workers and the public; does related work as required. Work is performed under the supervision of the Animal Shelter Manager or Assistant Manager. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. The County provides reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary functions herein described.

Essential Job Functions:

Understands and applies operating procedures and protocols in accordance with Virginia Animal Comprehensive Laws and shelter policies. Conducts intake of animals upon arrival, including initial assessment, documentation, and classification as stray or owner surrender. Observes animals daily to identify changes in health, behavior, or overall condition and reports concerns to the supervisor. Assigns animals to appropriate shelter locations based on health, behavior, and housing requirements. Completes and maintains necessary and required paperwork for each shelter animal. Inputs and retrieves accurate information on the computer and website, such as records on dogs and cats, citizen inquiries and concerns, and shelter information. Provides daily animal care, including feeding (with special diets as needed), water, exercise, enrichment, and maintaining appropriate living conditions. Monitors the health and behavior in compliance with the Code of Virginia; reports and changes or concerns promptly to supervisor. Cleans and sanitizes all shelter areas, including offices, kennels (indoor and outdoor), floors, dishes, bedding, and other equipment. Performs work in the general maintenance and care of the entire facility to include minor repairs to equipment; such as putting together dog beds. Assists with administering medication to animals under the supervision of the Manager or Assistant Manager and as directed by the overseeing veterinarian. Vaccinates age-appropriate shelter animals in accordance with shelter protocols. Bathes and removes external parasites from animals. Transports animals to and from vet appointments, adoption events, rescues, etc… Researches and investigates the prospects of foster and rescue and other animal organizations. Communicates with the general public and attends public events and civic organization meetings concerning adoption, release, redemption of animals, and education on spay/neuter. Assists with euthanasia of animals once certified, and as necessary.

Education and Experience:

Requires education equivalent to graduation from high school and experience working with animals. Some experience in the operation of an animal shelter is preferred.

Licenses or Certifications:

Possession of a valid driver's license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Animal Euthanasia Training Course and certification in euthanasia within one (1) year of employment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of standard office practices, procedures, equipment and techniques. Knowledge of the organization and functions of the department and of general administrative policies and practices. Knowledge of the care and feeding of small and large domesticated animals and necessary safety precautions. Knowledge of animal breeds. Skill in communicating effectively both orally and in writing in a highly interactive team-oriented work environment. Ability to identify symptoms and behavior of common animal diseases. Ability to handle animals of all backgrounds safely. Ability to operate standard office and other work-related equipment. ability to carry out oral and written directions. Ability to keep office records and to prepare accurate reports from file sources. Ability to perform and organize work effectively as a team as well as independently. Ability to maintain effective working relationships with associates and the general public. Ability to maintain regular and predictable attendance at work. The starting pay for this FLSA non-exempt position is $33,800.00-$38,870.00 annually, commensurate with qualifications, experience, and internal equity. The County offers an excellent benefits package, including the Virginia Retirement System, health and dental insurance, vacation and sick leave, and holidays. The successful candidate must pass a pre-employment, post-offer drug screening and background check. The County application and position description are available at www.shenandoahcountyva.us/administration/employment/ or in the Office of the County Administrator, 600 North Main Street, Suite 102, Woodstock, VA 22664, 540-459-6165. Qualified applicants should submit a complete application, cover letter, and resume in person or by mail to the attention of Shenandoah County Human Resources, 600 North Main Street, Suite 102, Woodstock, Virginia 22664. Applications may also be submitted electronically to jobs@shenandoahcountyva.us. Recruitment will be open until the position is filled, with a first review of applications on Thursday, September 17 , 2026. Shenandoah County is an Equal Opportunity Employer Job Details Category Full-time Employment Opportunities Status Open Posted September 3, 2026 9:30 AM Closing Open Until Filled