ANIMAL SERVICES SHELTER MANAGER
Job Specifications

Class Code:

AC8

Analyst:

ES, MM, RKM

Date Originated:

 06/02

 Revised

 05/10, 05/11

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY


DEFINITION

Under direction of the Animal Services Authority General Manager, supervises and coordinates the work of staff engaged in animal care activities and client services  in the Authority’s animal shelters; interprets and enforces State and County laws pertaining to the care and sheltering of animals; possesses a thorough knowledge of the requirements and procedures for the safe and humane keeping of animals and shelter management techniques; supervises staff involved in the receiving, assessment, medical treatment, custodial care, adoption,  humane euthanasia of unwanted animals and dealing with clients; provides assistance to the community in resolving animal problems, including over-population of domestic animals;  acts for the Animal Services Authority General Manager during periods of absence; and other duties as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is a single position class that reports directly to the Animal Services Authority General Manager and is responsible for all aspects of the day-to-day operations of the Animal Services Authority shelter, and all animal care and client services programs.

TYPICAL TASKS

Plans, organizes and administers programs directed toward the sheltering of animals, the adoption of animals, the rehabilitation of animals, and the humane euthanasia of animals within the framework of state and local laws; supervises all operations involved in the processing of incoming animals including assessment of physical and behavior conditions to determine adoptability; supervises the application of appropriate and prompt medical care, or humane euthanasia of animals brought to or impounded at the shelter; orders and maintains adequate medical and kennel supplies within budget allocations; assists the General Manager to establish and maintain cooperative relationships with federal, state and local agencies and private groups concerned with the care and well-being of animals, improved adoption programs, and responsible pet ownership; furnishes input to the General Manager regarding new legislation and regulations affecting the care, treatment and health of shelter animals; recommends, writes, and implements policies related to animal sheltering services.


Directs and supervises the keeping of records, accounts, monies and reports related to animal care activities; prepares statistical reports and correspondences; oversees the provision of proper vaccinations and microchipping to animals prior to adoption and to impounded animals to prevent the spread of disease; oversees the ordering, storage, and use of controlled substances used in the humane euthanasia or treatment of animals; provides and enforces industry guidelines to maintain sanitary conditions in the kennel areas; and arranges for spay/neuter surgical procedures when adequate facilities and skilled staff are provided, and it is appropriate.

Interviews and recommends applicants for job openings in assigned positions; directs,  performs and provides for appropriate training of animal services staff; assigns work, and provides evaluations of shelter staff; resolves performance or operational problems; performs functional supervision of animal care workers, animal health technicians, animal services assistants, animal services coordinators, trustees, community service workers, and volunteers assigned to shelter duties.  Serves as the Animal Services Field Manager during periods of his/her absence; participates in the formulation of over-all policies.

Assists in overseeing routine maintenance of shelter facilities such as cleaning, changing air filters, and other minor maintenance and repairs; provides assistance in handing telephone inquiries and complaints.

Supervises the care of animals brought to the animal shelter; supervises the administration and personally administers humane euthanasia according to established procedures, as may be required and in accordance with federal and state laws.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

Considerable knowledge of:

·        State and local laws and ordinances relating to animal care and control;

·        the proper care and handling of various breeds of animals;

·        the principals of humane animal shelter management; organization, operation and procedures of related government and law enforcement agencies;

·        safety procedures, OSHA and CAL-OSHA requirements;

·        principals and practices of personnel and fiscal administration;

·        animal health processes, such as preventative treatment and vaccination protocols.

 

Ability to:

 

·        Establish and maintain effective working relations with fellow employees, law enforcement agencies, private groups and  the public;

·        supervise subordinate employees;

·        analyze animal services shelter problems and adopt effective courses of action;

·        prepare clear and concise verbal and written reports;

·        handles sensitive inquiries from and contacts with public officials;

·        identify immediate and long-term staffing needs and propose solutions;

·        plan and oversee staff training and development;

·        complete work plan goals in a timely manner;

·        manage the animal services shelter budget;

·        complete educational programs covering legal aspects of animal control;

·        operate computer, facsimile, copier equipment;

·        follow oral and written directions;

·        Lift 50 lbs. unassisted.

Education and Experience: Any combination of education and work experience which would provide an opportunity to acquire the knowledge and abilities listed is qualifying, unless otherwise specified. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Training in supervisory and administrative techniques, and three years of supervisory experience in animal control, humane society, or other animal facility providing similar public service operations.

Special Requirements, Conditions:

Training: Incumbent must attend and pass the euthanasia certification course as provided for by State law  and completion of POST course work and certification in the use of firearms and exercising the powers of arrest and search and seizure required by Penal Code 830.9 is required prior to the completion of a probationary period for this class.

License: Incumbent must possess and maintain a valid California Class C driver license. Possession of a Registered Veterinary Technician Certificate is highly desirable.

Background Investigation: Departmental background investigation and fingerprints are required. Employment in this class requires successful completion of a criminal background investigation.

Hours: Availability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and/or holidays.

Special Working Conditions: Exposure to animals who may be hostile or dangerous.

Bargaining Unit:  11
Workers Comp Code:  1073
EEOC Code:  08
Occ Unit Group:  91