Animal Shelter Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Ready to join a progressive team and work in one of the most beautiful places in the country? We have the job for you!

Santa Barbara Humane is seeking a Manager of Shelter Services at our Santa Barbara Campus. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader to guide a dedicated team while making a meaningful impact on the lives of animals and the people who love them.

As Manager of Shelter Services, you'll oversee all aspects of daily shelter operations and client services at our progressive, managed-admission shelter on California's beautiful Central Coast. This hands-on leadership role combines strategic planning with day-to-day operational oversight and program management.

Working closely with teams across the organization and community partners, you'll help manage adoption-driven capacity and oversee ASV humane sheltering practices through medical care, enrichment, foster programs, behavior modification, transfers, and marketing initiatives.

The ideal candidate has 3–5 years of senior management experience , in an animal shelter or veterinary setting, and thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. They are an effective team builder with a strong understanding of animal welfare and a demonstrated commitment to Socially Conscious Sheltering.

Santa Barbara Humane is the largest nonprofit animal welfare organization in Santa Barbara County, serving our community through two campuses that provide adoptions, affordable veterinary care, dog training, volunteer opportunities, and safety-net services that keep pets with the families who love them. Our Santa Barbara Campus is in the midst of a $65M renovation and next year, we will celebrate 140 years of service.

If you're ready to take your animal welfare career to the next level—or put your dedication and leadership experience to work while living along the beautiful American Riviera—we'd love to hear from you!

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree (BA) from an accredited four-year college preferred, or 3–5 years of experience in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Demonstrated interest in and commitment to supporting and advocating for the philosophies, policies, and mission of Santa Barbara Humane as a Socially Conscious Animal Shelter.

• Experience supervising teams, providing training and coaching to staff, and ensuring consistent performance, accountability, and completion of assigned duties in alignment with organizational standards. 

• Experience in program development and continuous process improvement, including evaluating outcomes, identifying opportunities for enhancement, and implementing effective operational or service improvements. 

• Strong knowledge of animal breeds, behavior, health, and safe handling practices, with the ability to work safely around dogs and cats of varying temperaments, including large or reactive animals. .

• Possession of a valid California driver’s license and a driving record acceptable to Santa Barbara Humane’s insurance carrier, as the position requires operation of a company vehicle in the performance of job duties.

• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing, to collaborate with team members and clients and ensure adherence to safety protocols.