Animal Shelter Manager

Overview The City of Laguna Beach is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Animal Shelter Manager (currently classified as Kennel Manager) to lead the daily operations of our animal shelter. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare and public safety while overseeing a talented team of staff and volunteers. The Animal Shelter Manager is responsible for ensuring humane care, treatment, and placement of all animals, maintaining a safe, legally compliant facility, and fostering strong partnerships with veterinarians, community organizations, and residents. This position combines leadership, hands‑on animal care, and community engagement to promote responsible pet ownership and enhance the City’s animal services programs. Note: While the current classification is Kennel Manager, the position will be listed with the working title “Animal Shelter Manager” and may be updated as part of the City’s Classification and Compensation Study. Primary Responsibilities Leading and inspiring staff and volunteers to provide exceptional animal care. Managing daily shelter operations, including intake, medical care, and adoptions. Ensuring a safe, clean, and compliant facility. Engaging the community through outreach, education, and animal welfare programs. Overseeing budgets, supplies, and vendor partnerships. Making thoughtful decisions and responding to emergencies with professionalism. Using technology and social media to promote adoptions and share shelter stories. Qualifications Education High school graduation or equivalent is required. Associate’s degree in animal science, veterinary technology, animal husbandry, business, or public administration, or a related field is highly desirable; a Bachelor’s degree is preferred. Coursework or certification as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) or Animal Shelter Management certification is desirable. Experience Three to five years of progressively responsible experience in the care, handling, and treatment of domestic animals in an animal shelter, veterinary hospital, or related facility, including experience with animal intake, health monitoring, and adoption programs. At least two years of supervisory experience overseeing staff and or volunteers in an animal care or shelter environment. License and Certificate Requirements Valid driver’s license at the time of appointment. Certification in euthanasia by injection within six months of hire, or ability to obtain it. Certification or training in animal shelter management, chemical immobilization, or similar fields is desirable. Additional Responsibilities The position may require on‑call duties for natural disasters or other emergency incidents that could necessitate evacuation of the animal shelter and transportation of animals to alternative locations. Benefits Laguna Beach offers competitive compensation and benefits packages, including City‑paid health insurance for employees, alternative work schedules, wellness programs, and more. The City is committed to employee growth and development through training and education programs. Equal Opportunity Employer The City of Laguna Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. We encourage applicants to notify Human Resources at least two business days prior to the first phase of the selection process if they have a disability that may require an accommodation. EEO/ADA. Salary The proposed salary range is $100,900 – $141,200, subject to City Council approval. #J-18808-Ljbffr