Starting salary based on qualifications and experience.

Job Description

General Statement of Duties

Performs responsible administrative and supervisory work in the Animal Shelter, overseeing shelter operations and staff.

Distinguishing Features of the Class

An employee in this class is responsible for managing the operations of the Davidson County Animal Shelter. Work generally requires the employee to ensure State and County laws and regulations pertaining to the shelter, treatment, care and euthanasia of animals and departmental/County policies and procedures are followed, oversee the Animal Shelter staff and all operations (excluding Animal Control Officers).  Work is performed under regular supervision of the Assistant County Manager.

Illustrative Examples of Work

• Supervises Shelter staff (excluding Animal Control Officers).
• Oversees kennel operations and animal care, ensuring that established care standards are met for all animals.
• Ensures proper and humane handling of all animals.
• Coordinates staff work schedules; assigns duties and responsibilities; conducts staff evaluations; participates in the selection and disciplinary process; provides training to staff.
• Assists the public with questions and/or complaints; refers inquiries to the appropriate personnel or agency.
• Maintains inventory of office and shelter supplies; takes bid requests.
• Maintains shelter records.
• Prepares and maintains various reports.
• Observes and makes recommendations for improved operations.
• Provides technical support to staff, as needed.
• Manages the inventory and use of vaccines and euthanasia medications and controlled substances; maintains audit level record keeping.
• Oversees the initial routine health exams of animals admitted; identifies and ensures treatment of animals requiring veterinary care.
• Administers and/or oversees the administration of vaccines and drugs.
• Oversees the coordination and scheduling of spay/neuter with participating vets.
• Monitors and maintains County, State and Federal laws pertaining to the Animal Shelter; maintains standards and reporting deficiencies to the DCSO.
• Responds to non-routine matters, both in person and on the phone.
• Available to assist in the event of a natural man-made disaster affecting Davidson County.
• Maintains shelter certifications in Euthanasia and Injections.
• Adheres to department’s safety rules and regulations.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Recruitment and Selection Guidelines

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of State and County laws and regulations as they pertain to animal shelters. 
• Ability to supervise and direct the work of employees.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, staff, and the general public.
• Ability to solve problems within scope of responsibility.
• Ability to prepare and maintain records and reports.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Good computer skills. 

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational support functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing and repetitive motions.
• Must be able to perform light work exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. 
• Must possess visual acuity necessary to prepare and analyze data and figures, operate a computer terminal, perform extensive reading.
• Must be able to work in inside environmental conditions.  
• Worker works in close quarters, small enclosed rooms, and other areas that could cause claustrophobia.
• Must be able to work in conditions that are subject to contact with potentially infectious bodily fluids from animals.

Education and Experience

• Graduation from high school supplemented by college level course work or vocational training and two (2) years experience.  Demonstrated proficiency in the use of MS Office, including MS Outlook, Word and Excel; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience required to perform the essential job functions.

Licenses and Certifications

• Valid North Carolina Driver License.
• Must have, or obtain, Euthanasia Technician certification, First Aid/CPR certification and any other certifications deemed necessary.