Foster & Adoption CoordinatorJob Summary
The Foster & Adoption Coordinator is an integral part of Dorchester Paws' mission to promote the humane treatment of companion animals through protection, placement, education, and example. This position serves a dual role by coordinating the shelter's foster program while also assisting adopters through the adoption process to ensure successful placements.
The ideal candidate is self-motivated, compassionate, organized, and enjoys working with both people and animals. This position requires excellent communication, strong customer service skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced shelter environment. The Foster & Adoption Coordinator works closely with shelter staff, volunteers, fosters, adopters, rescue partners, and the public while maintaining a professional and positive attitude.
This is a full-time position. The schedule includes weekdays, weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings as required by shelter operations.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities
Foster Program
- Recruit, communicate with, and support foster caregivers through phone calls, emails, text messages, and social media.
- Match animals with appropriate foster homes based on medical, behavioral, and shelter needs.
- Schedule foster appointments, health checks, vaccinations, and spay/neuter surgeries.
- Answer questions regarding foster animals, medical care, behavior, and shelter policies.
- Prepare foster supplies and foster care kits.
- Train and onboard new foster caregivers.
- Maintain foster inventory and report supply needs to the Medical & Foster Manager.
- Participate in the Foster Emergency Line rotation.
- Maintain accurate foster records in Shelterluv and ensure all documentation is current.
Adoption Program
- Greet visitors and provide exceptional customer service throughout the adoption process.
- Counsel prospective adopters to help match them with the most appropriate animal based on lifestyle and expectations.
- Explain adoption procedures, policies, medical history, behavioral information, and post-adoption resources.
- Complete adoption paperwork accurately and process adoption transactions.
- Assist adopters with introductions between family members and potential pets.
- Promote responsible pet ownership through education and guidance.
- Help maintain attractive adoption areas and ensure animals are presented in a positive manner.
- Follow up with adopters when appropriate to support successful placements.
Shelter Operations
- Support the daily care and welfare of shelter animals.
- Maintain accurate animal records by entering information into Shelterluv, updating animal status, and uploading photographs.
- Assist with animal intake, transfers, and movement throughout the shelter as needed.
- Collaborate with staff, volunteers, rescue partners, and veterinary personnel.
- Assist other departments during busy periods and perform additional duties as assigned.
- Represent Dorchester Paws professionally within the community.
Work Environment
This position involves a combination of office duties and hands-on work throughout the shelter. Daily responsibilities include computer work, telephone communication, customer interaction, and working directly with animals.
The position requires:
- Frequent walking throughout the shelter
- Standing for extended periods
- Bending, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and lifting
- Lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds
- Exposure to animal hair, dander, cleaning products, noise, and varying weather conditions when working outdoors or at events
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Previous experience in animal welfare, veterinary medicine, customer service, or a nonprofit environment preferred.
- Experience working in an animal shelter or veterinary clinic is a plus.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
- Comfortable working with cats and dogs of varying sizes, breeds, temperaments, and medical conditions.
- Ability to handle emotional situations with professionalism and compassion.
- Proficiency with computers, email, and Microsoft Office; experience with Shelterluv or similar shelter management software is preferred.
- Ability to manage phone calls, emails, calendars, and social media related to the foster program.
- Reliable transportation and dependable attendance.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively as a member of the shelter team.
Core Competencies
- Compassion for animals and people
- Exceptional customer service
- Strong communication skills
- Organization and attention to detail
- Problem-solving and sound judgment
- Professionalism and integrity
- Adaptability in a fast-paced environment
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Commitment to the mission and values of Dorchester Paws
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $14.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- animal care: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
