Adoption Counselor

Adoption Supervisor

LifeLine Animal Project is committed to the care and welfare of pets and the people who love them. The values we exhibit as an organization show the strength of our staff, our leadership and our community. We expect all employees to exhibit LifeLine's core values as we complete daily tasks, provide services to clients and care for our animals.

As the Adoption Supervisor, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of the adoption process. Reporting to the Client Services Manager, you will lead a team of adoption staff members, ensuring the smooth execution of adoption procedures and maintaining a supportive environment for both staff and potential adopters.

Essential Job Functions:

• Supervise and support adoption staff, providing guidance, training, and mentorship to ensure efficient operations and exceptional customer service.
• Oversee the adoption process from initial inquiries to finalizing adoptions, ensuring compliance with shelter policies and standards while prioritizing the welfare of animals.
• Ensure adequate coverage and report issues to management.
• Review timesheets and attendance regularly and advise management of attendance policy violations.
• Take responsibility to ensure shelter adoption policy is adhered to and assist, as needed.
• Conduct regular one-on-one meetings with team members to provide feedback and support professional development.
• Make recommendations of disciplinary actions to address employee performance and/or behaviors to the department manager.
• Work closely with the department manager to communicate staff needs, operational challenges, and adoption updates.
• Support the interview and onboarding process in the event of new hires.

Customer Interaction:

• Interact with potential adopters, offering guidance, information, and assistance throughout the adoption process, facilitating suitable matches between animals and prospective families.
• Compassionately, welcome visitors with a friendly and professional demeanor.
• Always operate with a judgement-free mindset and consider our Adopters Welcome policy when greeting and working with visitors.

Documentation and Record-keeping:

• Exhibit exceptional stewardship by reviewing and maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of adoptions, ensuring all necessary paperwork is completed efficiently and accurately.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Coordinate and participate in adoption events, campaigns, and outreach programs, collaborating with management and the marketing team to maximize adoption opportunities.
• Help build a community of animal welfare advocates by supporting and engaging the volunteers who aid the placement teams.
• Liaise with other departments, such as animal care, veterinary services, and community support, to ensure effective communication and a streamlined adoption process.
• Courageously, collaborate with other shelter staff to address any issues or concerns that arise.
• Support saving the lives of animals by maintaining a general understanding of all shelter operations, including animal care, adoption policies, volunteer opportunities, foster programs and any other operational processes.

Adoption Counseling Support:

• Stay informed about current animals in the shelter, including their needs, personalities, and status.
• Assist adoption staff in providing informative and compassionate guidance to potential adopters, facilitating successful matches based on the animals' needs and adopters' lifestyles while respecting, embracing, and celebrating the diversity of individuals.

General Responsibilities:

• Continue education by participating in LifeLine's 40-hour annual training requirement.
• Maintain a clean and tidy work area.
• Other tasks as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Compassion for animals and the people who love and care for them.
• Passion for animal welfare and a strong understanding of animal care and adoption processes.
• Ability to serve the public and fellow employees with honesty and integrity.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse groups.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
• Knowledge of general animal care principles and practices.
• General knowledge of dog handling and behavior.
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate with various departments, personnel, vendors, volunteers and outside agencies.
• Frequent walking and ability to lift 50-80 lbs.
• Ability to conduct dog tests both on and off leash.
• Able to handle behavior evaluations with dogs and cats.
• Comfortable with leash walking dogs up to 110 lbs.
• Comfortable working with dogs and cats of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and to bend and reach to perform assigned work activities.
• Ability to work well in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications (e.g., Google Workspace, MS Office, email) and experience with database systems is a plus.
• Familiarity with Google Workspaces applications, specifically Google Sheets.
• Ability to follow safety protocols and handle challenging situations with calmness and professionalism.
• Ability to work collaboratively with multiple departments to ensure efficient shelter operations.
• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and remain composed under pressure.
• Ability to handle seeing and dealing with animals that have been abused, neglected or treated cruelly.
• Must be able to work weekends, holidays, and varying shifts based on shelter needs.
• Must have a means of travel that ensures prompt arrival for work shifts.
• Must pass a background check.

Education and/or Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent; college degree or relevant coursework preferred.
• At least one year of leadership experience.
• Two or more years' experience in animal related field, animal sheltering, or animal care preferred.
• Previous experience in customer service, hospitality, or a similar role is highly desirable.
• Fear Free Sheltering preferred.

Work Environment:

• While performing the duties of this job, employee may be exposed to unpleasant kennel smells. May have to handle dogs and cats that are stray, injured, diseased or vicious.