Animal Care Technician

About the role

Under the supervision of the Foster and Animal Care Manager, the Animal Care Technician (ACT) is responsible for providing infrastructure support for Pets In Need’s rescue and adoption efforts.  This position will provide the daily care of animals in our care, including but not limited to, feeding, cleaning, medicating, exercising, and enriching the shelter animals’ lives, while following all proper handling protocols.  This is a full time position located in both Palo Alto and Redwood City locations and travel between the two locations may be required. The pay scale for this role is $22 per hour to $26 per hour, based upon experience.

What you'll do

• Provide daily care, feeding, exercise, and enrichment for Pets In Need's shelter animals.  Assists with walking and rotating dogs from kennels throughout the day.   May participate in showing dogs and or cats to members of the public or volunteers, once trained to behaviorally handle different “levels” of animals. 

• Administers and dispenses animal medications (vaccinations and oral treatments) as prescribed by the Medical Team. 

• Prepares and provides edible enrichment for animals, including but not limited to stuffing kongs and handing out chews.   

• Clean and maintain animal living areas, animal bedding & furniture, all animal/shelter equipment, staff, and public areas. 

• Observe shelter animals for any unusual symptoms that may be indicative of a medical or behavioral problem and report to proper channels. 

• Transport animals as needed. 

• Cleans public areas as needed (i.e. restrooms) 

• Crosstrain and assist at both locations with animal care duties when needed. 

• Always promote a humane and caring attitude toward all animals 

• Follow established procedures governing safe work practices; to perform duties in a manner which assures the safety of the animals, oneself, and others. 

• Perform duties in a manner which encourages contributions and business for Pets In Need 

• Always treat people and animals with respect, contribute to effective teamwork, promote staff cooperation, and foster public relations beneficial to Pets In Need 

• Perform other duties as assigned by the manager. Describe the specific responsibilities and job functions of the role

Qualifications

• No allergic conditions that would be aggravated when animals are present in the workplace. 

• This position is considered moderately to highly physical and requires standing, bending, lifting and walking. 

• Ability to lift and move objects and animals weighing up to 50 pounds for short distances and to humanely restrain animals, when necessary 

• Ability to walk and handle large dogs up to 100 pounds, as well as socialize with cats. 

• An understanding and willingness to work with potentially dangerous and/or fractious animals.  

COMMUNICATION REQUIREMENTS 

• Must be able to effectively read, write, and express information verbally in English. 

• Ability to comprehend and follow written and/or verbal instructions. 

• Communicate with the public and co-workers in a pleasant, courteous, and tactful manner at all times.  

EXPERIENCE, ABILITIES AND QUALITIES REQUIRED 

• Must have and maintain a valid California driver's license with a good driving record. 

• Maturity, good judgment, and professional personal appearance. 

• Be comfortable and skilled in working with a culturally diverse staff, volunteers and community. 

• Affection for animals, concern for their welfare and a willingness to accommodate animals in the workplace. 

• Relevant experience required. 

• Must understand and support Pets In Need's No Kill mission. 

• Must be able to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings and holidays.   

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS 

At least a high school diploma  or GED is required; preference will be given to candidates that have some work experience in an animal shelter and/or non-profit organization.  Describe the experience and attributes of the ideal candidate.