Position Summary
The Operations Manager provides hands-on leadership for the daily operations. This role ensures high standards of animal care, efficient shelter operations, regulatory compliance, and a positive experience for adopters, volunteers, and staff.
The Operations Manager works closely with staff and volunteers, frequently participating in day-to-day shelter functions while overseeing policies, procedures, budgeting, and facility management. The position requires strong leadership, flexibility, and a deep commitment to animal welfare.
Key Responsibilities
Shelter Operations & Animal Care
- Oversee daily shelter operations including intake, adoptions, fostering, and animal transfers.
- Ensure humane treatment and proper care of all animals in accordance with best practices.
- Report all major behavior and medical concerns to the board.
- Monitor animal population management and disease prevention protocols.
- Work directly with staff to ensure cleaning, feeding, enrichment, and medical follow-ups are completed.
- Step in as needed to support animal care duties during staffing shortages.
- Provide monthly reports to the Board of Directors. There may be requests for data by various members of the board.
Staff & Volunteer Leadership
- Manage shelter staff and support volunteer coordination.
- Hire, train, coach, and evaluate team members.
- Create staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage.
- Promote a collaborative, mission-driven culture.
- Address performance issues and resolve conflicts professionally.
Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal animal welfare regulations.
- Maintain accurate animal records and required reporting.
- Oversee safety protocols for staff, volunteers, animals, and visitors.
- Participate in emergency planning and response.
Facilities & Resource Management
- Oversee cleanliness, maintenance, and security of shelter facilities.
- Coordinate with vendors and service providers.
- Manage inventory of food, medical supplies, and cleaning products.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining care standards.
Financial Oversight
- Assist with budget preparation and monitor operational expenses.
- Approve operational purchases within budget guidelines.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent experience considered.
- 3–5+ years of supervisory or operations management experience.
- Experience in animal welfare, veterinary clinics, or shelter environments preferred.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
- Comfortable working in a hands-on shelter setting.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, and cleaning.
- Exposure to animals, cleaning chemicals, and high noise levels.
- Ability to work some evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Ideal Candidate Traits for a Small Shelter
- Hands-on leader
- Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment
- Financially mindful
- Strong communicator with staff and the public
Pay: $58,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
