Animal Care Specialist

Agency Overview

The Animal Care Services department is dedicated to promoting animal welfare, facilitating adoption, and conducting rescue operations. Its mission focuses on protecting the health, safety, and well-being of both pets and livestock within Marion County. The department maintains a cooperative and compliant workplace to effectively serve the community of Indianapolis and Marion County.

Position Summary

This role involves providing daily care and treatment to animals housed at the shelter. Responsibilities include maintaining kennels, performing custodial duties, and ensuring the environment remains free of disease. The position requires professional interaction with the public, staff, community partners, and volunteers, always delivering excellent customer service. Compliance with safety protocols, policies, and the agency's vision and mission is essential. Candidates must obtain and sustain Euthanasia Certification from the Humane Society of the United States.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Offer enrichment and social interaction activities for dogs and cats.
• Maintain cleanliness and upkeep of kennel areas.
• Clean and disinfect kennels to ensure hygienic conditions.
• Feed animals and provide direct care as required.
• Safely move animals within the shelter facility.
• Carry out general custodial tasks.
• Effectively communicate pertinent information to the public.
• Adhere strictly to standard operating procedures.
• Handle animals with care and proper techniques.

Additional duties may be assigned by management as necessary.

Qualifications

• Must hold a high school diploma or its equivalent.
• Physical ability to manage animals weighing over 50 pounds and perform manual labor.
• Capability to understand general instructions and operate necessary equipment safely.
• Willingness to work overtime, including holidays and weekends, as required.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Work Conditions

The work environment primarily consists of kennel facilities where exposure to dust, noise, physical exertion such as bending and lifting, and other inherent hazards of a shelter setting occur.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The City of Indianapolis Marion County is an equal opportunity employer. All candidates are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. Diversity in perspectives and experiences is highly valued among employees and the residents served.