Animal Caregiver

Animal Care SpecialistResponsible for providing a high standard of care and humane handling for all shelter animals and maintaining a safe and sanitary facility for animals and people. Ensures all animals' nutrition, housing, enrichment, and other care needs are met daily.The Role: What You'll DoClean, disinfect, and maintain all animal housing spaces on a daily and continuous basis, adhering to HRA Standard Operating Procedures and protocols for animal care, kennel maintenance, sanitation, parasite and disease control, and other animal care practicesProvide appropriate diet, clean water, and enrichment to all animals according to SOPs and as directed by management and medical personnelMonitor animals' health and behaviors and record observations at least daily according to SOP. Report signs of illness and behavior concerns as directed to appropriate personnel.Monitor daily laundry washing, folding, and stockingBathe and clean animals on a regular schedule or immediately if they become soiled.Work alongside volunteers to complete tasks given for the betterment of the animals in careRecord clear and concise notes regarding animal behavior and care in PetPointMove animals around the facility as directed by the animal care management team and ensure that all animal locations and stages are correctly entered into PetPointKeep all animal areas stocked with food, litter, cleaning supplies, and other essential items, informing Managers when items need replenishment or repairPut away deliveries and donations of animal care and cleaning supplies throughout the day as they are deliveredMaintain the cleanliness of common and public areas assigned to the Animal Care teamProvide guidance and assistance to HRA volunteers and community service workersRead HRA email daily, responding promptly when appropriateReport maintenance/repair issues to the animal care department managementAny other duties as assigned by Animal Care Managers and the Director of Animal Care.Physical Requirements & Work EnvironmentThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the primary functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.Ability to lift 50 pounds unassisted regularly, 50+ pounds assistedAbility to perform strenuous physical activity daily, including but not limited to lifting and carrying, reaching, stooping, standing, squatting, and bending. Regularly moves about the facilities to coordinate work.Due to the nature of shelter work, maybe exposed to deceased, fractious, or aggressive animals; hostile or irate persons; zoonotic or other diseases; allergens; unpleasant noises, odors, or sights; and extreme temperatures.About You: Skills & QualificationsWillingness to work with cats, dogs, small animals, reptiles, fish, and birdsFear Free Certified or the ability to get Fear Free certified within 3 months of employmentMust have open availability and a flexible scheduleProficient in the use of email and navigating basic software neededComputer and phone literacy skillsAbility to positively interact with colleagues, coworkers, and community members from widely varied backgrounds with integrity and honesty throughout all aspects of the position, always maintaining confidentialityAbility to work outdoors in all weather conditionsAbility to work in a team environment and follow directionsAbility to manage the emotional aspect of work in an animal shelter environment in a positive, professional manner.Passion for the Humane Rescue Alliance mission, for caring for all animals regardless of age, breed, temperament, or species, and supporting and educating members of the public, free of judgement or bias.Minimum of 18 years of age.High School Diploma or GEDBasic familiarity with computers, MSWord, MS Outlook, and Microsoft Office.Benefits Overview: Humane Rescue Alliance (HRA)At the Humane Rescue Alliance (HRA), we are committed to supporting the well-being of our employees so they can continue making a meaningful impact for animals and the community. We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance.Benefits include:$0-Cost Medical Plan Option: Access to a no-cost employee-only medical plan through CareFirst, making healthcare more accessible and affordableComprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Multiple plan options available to meet individual and family needsFlexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Pre-tax options to help manage healthcare and dependent care expenses401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Support: Administered through Empower, with tools and resources to help you plan for your futureGenerous Paid Time Off (PTO): Including vacation, sick leave, and holidays to support rest and work-life balanceEmployee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential resources to support mental health, wellness, and life challengesCommuter Benefits (WMATA SmartBenefits): Pre-tax transit benefits for metro, bus, and eligible commuting expensesProfessional Development & Training Opportunities: Including Fear Free Certification and ongoing learning initiatives to support career growthFlexible Work Environment (Role-Dependent): Opportunities for hybrid or flexible scheduling based on position and operational needsEmployee Discounts & Perks: Discounts on pet adoptions, veterinary products, and partner offeringsMultilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. A salary premium may be offered for multilingual candidates who demonstrate proficiency in written and oral testing.HRA is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate because of race, color, creed, gender, religion, national origin, disability, age, pregnancy, genetic predisposition or carrier status, marital status, citizenship status, or sexual orientation. Accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals requiring them.