We’re Hiring!
Job Title:Weekend Reception & Animal Care Attendant
Hours: Part Time, 16 hours per week
Reports to: Shelter Manager/Director of Animal Care
Position Summary
The Weekend Reception & Animal Care Attendant serves as the primary point of contact for visitors while also assisting with the daily care and welfare of animals housed at the shelter. This position requires a compassionate, organized, and customer-focused individual who can effectively balance reception responsibilities with hands-on animal care duties.
The successful candidate will provide exceptional customer service to the public, support adoptions and animal intake processes, and help ensure the health, cleanliness, and well-being of shelter animals.
Key Responsibilities
Reception & Customer Service
Greet visitors, adopters, volunteers, and community members in a friendly and professional manner.
Answer and direct telephone calls, emails, and public inquiries.
Provide information regarding adoptions, lost and found pets, shelter services, and community programs.
Process adoption applications and assist with adoption appointments.
Schedule appointments for adoptions, owner surrenders, and other shelter services.
Process donations and issue receipts as required.
Maintain accurate records and data entry within shelter software systems.
Assist with retail merchandise and shelter supply sales.
Animal Care
Feed, water, and monitor shelter animals.
Clean and sanitize kennels, cages, litter boxes, food dishes, and animal housing areas.
Exercise, socialize, and provide enrichment for shelter animals.
Monitor animal health and behavior and report concerns promptly.
Assist with medication administration as trained and directed.
Ensure animals receive appropriate daily care and attention.
Shelter Operations
Maintain cleanliness and organization of reception and public areas.
Assist with animal intake, transfers, and reunifications when required.
Follow shelter health and safety protocols, including disease prevention procedures.
Ensure accurate documentation of animal care observations and activities.
Assist staff and volunteers with daily shelter operations.
Adoption Support
Facilitate meet-and-greets between adopters and animals.
Educate potential adopters about animal care, behavior, and responsible pet ownership.
Promote adoptable animals and positive shelter experiences.
Support successful adoption placements through excellent customer service.
Qualifications
Required
High School Diploma (Grade 12) or equivalent.
Previous customer service experience.
Previous animal care experience in a shelter, veterinary clinic, kennel, daycare, rescue, or similar environment.
Strong computer and administrative skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Valid driver's license.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Preferred
Experience working in an animal shelter environment.
Knowledge of animal behavior and handling techniques.
Experience with shelter management software.
Animal First Aid certification.
Experience handling difficult customer situations professionally.
Working Conditions
Exposure to animal noise, odors, allergens, and cleaning products.
Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and repetitive movements.
Fast-paced environment requiring strong multitasking skills.
Regular interaction with animals, staff, volunteers, and members of the public.
Schedule
Weekend shifts (Saturday and Sunday)
Additional holiday or relief shifts may be available
Flexibility to assist during special events as required
Core Competencies
Compassion for animals and people.
Professional and positive customer service skills.
Strong organizational and time management abilities.
Attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to remain calm in challenging situations.
Reliability, accountability, and teamwork.
Commitment to animal welfare and the mission of the organization.
Compensation
Compensation is based on experience and qualifications.
To Apply
Please send your cover letter and resume to Wendy Riley, Director of Animal Care – directoranimalcare@northumberlandhs.com.
Application deadline – 5.00 PM, June 30th.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The organization is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or any other protected status.