Job Summary
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Animal Shelter Shift Lead to oversee daily operations at our shelter facility. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and a compassionate approach to managing staff and ensuring the well-being of animals in the shelter. This candidate will have experience with dog handling and training. This role ensures animals are safe, healthy, and comfortable while supporting smooth shelter operations, and is responsible for other staff on shift.
Key Responsibilities
Animal Care & Welfare
- Ensure all animals receive daily care and enrichment according to shelter standards.
- Conduct basic condition checks and behavior assessments upon intake.
- Administer any required medications as directed by the Medical Manager.
- Observe and notify medical staff of any behavioral or medical issues.
Staff Supervision & Training
- Lead, train, and support the animal care team, including kennel attendants and volunteers.
- Create and assign daily care schedules and tasks.
- Ensure staff are trained in safe animal handling, cleaning protocols, and shelter procedures.
- Provide ongoing coaching to uphold high welfare standards.
Shelter Operations & Protocols
- Maintain clean, safe, and organized animal care areas (both inside and outside shelter) in accordance with shelter protocols.
- Assist with managing animal care supplies and inventory.
- Help develop and refine procedures to improve animal care and workflow efficiency.
Qualifications
- Experience in animal care, sheltering, or rescue organizations.
- Supervisory or team lead experience is required.
- Understanding of animal behaviour, handling, and welfare standards.
- Ability to work confidently with dogs and cats, including animals with behaviour or medical needs.
- Excellent leadership, organizational and communication skills.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.
- Compassionate, patient, and committed to humane animal care.
Working Conditions
- Work performed in shelter and extreme outdoor environments.
- Physical tasks include lifting up to 50 lbs, standing for long periods, walking dogs in cold weather and handling animals safely.
- Weekend and evening shifts may be required, especially during high intake periods or emergency rescues.
- Must have a driver's license for transporting animals to and from the shelter.
Supervisor shifts will be 5 days a week.
Shifts are 7am -3pm or 11 am- 7pm.
With some possible split shifts 7am -11am / 3pm - 7pm
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $22.00-$24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- On-site parking
Experience:
- dog handling/training: 2 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Driving Licence (required)
- CPR Certification (preferred)
Location:
- Yellowknife, NT (required)
Work Location: In person
