Program Specialist (Shelter Operations Manager)

With supervisor approval, incumbents may be eligible for intermittent remote work; however, they must physically reside within the Sacramento region or have the ability to regularly report to a City of Sacramento physical worksite with little notice. Responsibilities Budgeting, planning and coordinating staffing, equipment, and facility needs. Developing and implementing high-level, long-range strategies for reducing shelter population, decreasing length of stay, and increasing outcomes in program areas through advanced subject‑matter expertise, research, and consultation with other industry experts and animal welfare organizations. Designing and implementing disease outbreak prevention and response protocols in coordination with the shelter’s veterinarians based on shelter industry standards. Reviewing non‑medical euthanasia decisions based on behavior, public safety risk, exhaustion of placement options, and other considerations. Developing and implementing policies and procedures related to teams and programs under purview. Ideal Candidate Possess a deep passion for animal wellbeing combined with strong leadership and management skills. Experience in shelter operations, with a thorough understanding of animal care protocols, facility maintenance, and safety regulations. Experience in managing animal shelters or similar environments, with hands‑on knowledge of animal behavior, health care practices, and humane treatment. Excellent organization skills for overseeing complex daily operations, managing multiple programs (including the Animal Care Team, Volunteer Program and Rescue and Foster programs), and making informed decisions to enhance the wellbeing of animals in the shelter. Exceptional communication skills to interact professionally with staff, volunteers, and the public while promoting a positive image of Animal Care Services and advocating for the needs of the animals. Strong problem‑solving abilities and a proactive approach to identify areas for improvement, implement best practices, and ensure the highest standards of animal welfare and operational efficiency. Program Overview Under general direction the Program Specialist plans, directs, and supervises all of the activities of a major department or Citywide program or project with moderate visibility and impact; conducts studies and makes recommendations; monitors program compliance; represents the department in contacts with media, internal and external agencies, and organizations. Distinguishing Characteristics This advanced journey level class in the professional series is populated with multiple incumbents. The Program Specialist is distinguished from the next lower class of Program Analyst in that the Program Specialist manages multiple programs or moderately visible programs with greater department or Citywide impact. Knowledge Principles and practices of public administration and governmental finance, budgeting, and accounting. Procurement methods. Research techniques, methods and procedures. Experience and Education Four years of progressively responsible professional-level administrative experience. A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four‑year college or university with major coursework in business or public administration or a closely related field. #J-18808-Ljbffr Humanepro