Kennel Technician

Animal Care Specialist

Under direct supervision, responsible for the maintenance of all animal habitats, to include cleaning all habitats; feeding, walking and bathing animals; and cleaning laundry and dishes. Point of contact with citizens and adoption program.

Examples of Duties

• Responsible for the daily, on-going, and as needed basis cleaning of all animal habitats; maintaining animal habitat areas (inside and outside) by cleaning and sanitizing animal kennels; removing litter and debris; sweeping, mopping, and cleaning windows; and removing trash and cleaning dog yards of waste.
• Maintains and communicates inventory and supply needs as well as maintenance issues to supervisor. Keeps inventory of food, chemicals, and other supplies current and stocked at all times.
• Responsible for conducting animal adoption interviews, paperwork, and follow-ups.
• Makes appointments for and transports animals to veterinarian facilities.
• Responsible for the general care of animals, e.g., feeding, cleaning kennels, walking, and grooming.
• Assists the general public in directional and procedural inquiries, assists office personnel with receiving animals, and answers the telephone.
• Updates the website and social media with adoptable animals and event highlights.
• Evaluates animal temperament, performs evaluations on adoptability, and provides disposition recommendations to the manager.
• Works alongside volunteers and communicates regularly with the Outreach Coordinator on shelter updates.
• Responsible for continued monitoring and reporting any observed health or behavior changes of the animals directly to the manager.
• Required to assist with and/or perform animal euthanasia.
• Responsible for administering medications and vaccinations as required; keeping detailed logs of the medical needs of the animals.
• Responsible for updating staff of any medical changes or needs of the animals.
• Participation in both on and off site events.
• Operates various types of office equipment.
• Adheres to departmental, personnel, and safety policies and procedures.
• Informs supervisor of all work activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: A High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) is required. Must possess a valid Texas driver's license and driving record must be in compliance with Town policy. EDUCATION: Must complete and pass a certified animal euthanasia course within 120 days of hiring date. PHYSICAL ABILITIES: Must be able to see, talk, hear, read, and write. Must be able to lift, kneel, sit, squat, bend, stand, and stoop. Requires firm grasping, wrist/arm extension and rotation on a frequent basis. Ability to safely handle, walk, transport, and restrain animals up to 100 lbs. using appropriate procedures and equipment. Must be able to work in adverse environmental conditions to include fumes, dust/mist, noxious odors, chemical, solid waste substances, animal feces, urine, saliva, and the sight of blood.

Desired Qualifications

KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES: Must have a general working knowledge of computer operations (data entry) and general office procedures. Must have excellent English communicative skills, both oral and written, to include spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Bilingual communicative skills are preferred. Maintain a pleasant and friendly demeanor at all times. Must be able to understand and carry out oral and written directives, work well under pressure and stress, handle multiple tasks, and prioritize and organize work assignments.