Shelter Manager

Job Title: Shelter Manager
Reports To: Director of Operations
FLSA Status: Exempt

Position Summary:

The Shelter Manager is responsible for the daily operation of the animal shelter, including intake, animal care, staff supervision, customer service, and facility oversight. This position also supports the coordination of the on-site medical clinic, ensuring efficient scheduling, communication, and collaboration between the shelter and medical teams. The Shelter Manager plays a key role in promoting high standards of animal welfare, public service, and organizational effectiveness.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee the daily care, feeding, cleaning, and enrichment of all shelter animals, ensuring adherence to best practices in animal welfare.
• Supervise, train, and schedule shelter staff, fostering a supportive and accountable team environment.
• Supervise the logistical and operational integration of the on-site community clinic, working closely with the medical staff and per diem Vets to ensure smooth workflows and optimal care for community animals.
• Ensure proper communication and documentation between shelter and medical staff regarding shelter animal health, behavior, and treatment plans.
• Monitor animal population and housing to maintain humane capacity and prevent overcrowding.
• Support intake and adoption procedures, including counseling adopters, resolving concerns, and ensuring positive customer experiences.
• Maintain and update as needed best practice shelter protocols for cleaning, disease prevention, and safety.
• Collaborate with the Director of Operations to develop, implement, and evaluate shelter policies and procedures.
• Ensure timely and accurate data entry in the shelter management system, and regularly monitor internal database communications and case notes for consistency and follow-through.
• Manage inventory of supplies for shelter operations.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe facility for animals, staff, volunteers, and the public.
• Respond to emergencies, including after-hours as needed.
• Participate in and support cross-departmental collaboration with foster, volunteer, fundraising, and community service programs.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 3 years of experience in animal sheltering, veterinary clinic, or related animal care environment.
• At least 3 years in a supervisory or management capacity.
• Strong knowledge of animal care, shelter medicine, and behavior.
• Experience working alongside or within a medical team is strongly preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced, emotionally challenging environment.
• Proficiency in shelter software or a willingness to learn.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required.
• Bilingual skills are a plus.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time, on-site position with a flexible schedule including some evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Physical demands include lifting up to 50 pounds, standing for long periods, and working in indoor/outdoor environments.
• Regular exposure to animals of varying sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions.