Foster Placement Coordinator

Description

Since 1984, we’ve dedicated ourselves to ensuring every animal has the quality of life they deserve – a life worth living. Now, we go beyond our walls to help create a more humane community for pets and the people who love them.

Asheville Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We do, however, hold the County contract for animal sheltering. This means that we are the open-admission shelter for all Buncombe County animals.

Position Summary

The Foster Placement Coordinator is responsible for facilitating successful foster placements by matching animals in need with appropriate foster homes. This role involves evaluating animal and caregiver needs, coordinating placement logistics, and providing ongoing support to foster participants. The Foster Placement Coordinator collaborates closely with the Foster Program Manager, Operations, Medical, and Behavior staff to identify animals who would benefit from time in foster care and to ensure a smooth transition between shelter and foster environments. 

This position requires strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment, and the ability to problem-solve creatively in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate is comfortable working both independently and collaboratively as part of a team and handling animals of all health statuses and temperaments.  

Schedule: The Foster Placement Coordinator is a full time position that works in the Adoption Center. The work schedule is Tuesday – Saturday, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm.

Compensation & Benefits: The compensation for the Foster Placement Coordinator starts at $18.00/hour. AHS is pleased to offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees that includes: medical, dental, and vision insurance, a Simple IRA plan with up to 3% company match, 18 days of PTO in the first year, paid holidays, pet prescription discounts, and more! Benefits are available after 60 days of employment.

Key Responsibilities

• Thoughtfully match animals in need with available foster homes based on individual needs and foster family capabilities.
• Partner with the Medical, Behavior and Operations teams to identify animals who would benefit most from foster placement. Schedule and oversee the logistics of animal pick-ups and returns, including preparing supplies and medications and relaying medical and behavioral plans to foster parents.  
• Maintain accurate records of animals in foster and those awaiting placement, as well as foster family details and availability. Proactively screen, train, and support new and existing foster families. 
• Create and distribute foster pleas via email and social media to increase foster placement success. 
• Respond promptly and professionally to foster inquiries and program-related messages. 
• Support the Foster Veterinary Medical Team with animal handling and medication prep as needed. 
• Collaborate with the rest of the Foster Team and Senior Operations Manager to coordinate foster returns and ensure appropriate kennel space. 
• Ensure consistent and compassionate communication regarding animal behavior and health. 
• Uphold humane animal handling standards and maintain a safe, clean environment. 
• Contribute creative ideas and solutions to foster placements, outreach, and caregiver support while working both independently and collaboratively as part of a team. 
• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.  
• Basic computer knowledge and proficiency with MS Office. 
• Ability to apply proper animal handling skills, basic medical knowledge, and knowledge of individual animal temperament.  
• Ability to work well under pressure and handle stress, in a fast-paced environment 
• Ability to work independently, balance multiple projects, and meet deadlines. 
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, written, and communication skills. 
• Ability to work with volunteers and co-workers in a professional manner. 
• Ability to achieve certified euthanasia technician (CET) status & perform CET duties 
• Experience working in a shelter or similar setting is a plus but not required.