Animal Care Associate (Full Time)

Job Description Salary: Starting at $17/hrAs an Animal Care Associate, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring our shelter pets are free from stress, fear, and anxiety, while providing a safe and clean environment for them. This position isn't for everyone. It can be loud, smelly, and sometimes stressful. But if making a significant difference in the lives of shelter pets and their future loving families is something you're passionate about, this might be the most fulfilling job you've ever had!A DAY IN THE LIFE OF AN ANIMAL CARE ASSOCIATETo get a better idea of the morning Animal Care routine, please watch this video!The Animal Care team focuses on cleaning, feeding, and providing enrichment for all shelter pets on their way to finding their loving homes. Mornings begin with routine wellness checks and participation in playgroups for dogs and group socialization sessions for cats to ensure all animals receive critical socialization and exercise. Throughout the day, you'll transport animals for medical procedures, monitor their health and behavior, and provide the compassionate care that helps them become adoption-ready.Afternoons are spent spot-cleaning, adding enrichment activities, providing additional socialization time in communal cat rooms and with individual dogs and cats, and assisting other shelter areas depending on daily needs. An ideal candidate for this position loves to flex between team projects and independent work, thrives in a hands-on learning environment, and has a passion for helping people and pets.Schedule:Five days per week, 8am - 5pm, 7am - 4pm, or 9am - 6pm. Candidates must be willing to work all shift types, weekends and holidays.QUALIFICATIONSRequired:Enthusiasm for the mission of Patty Baker Humane Society Naples and commitment to animal welfareThis role requires dedication, compassion, and a strong work ethic.High school diploma or GED equivalentAbility to lift and carry up to 50 lbs regularlyComfortable interacting with and handling both dogs and cats of varying temperamentsStrong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)Reliable transportationReliable attendance with minimal unscheduled absencesCandidates must be authorized to work in the United States. We are an equal opportunity employer.Preferred:3-6 months of related experience in animal care (shelter, veterinary clinic, kennel, or rescue)Knowledge of dog and cat behavior and body languageExperience with dog playgroups or cat group socializationPrevious volunteer experience in animal welfareWhat We Offer:Pay starts at $17/hr. Paid weekly.Paid time off and Holiday PayMedical, dental, vision insurancePaid parental leaveRetirement plan available, matching funds after 1 yearSignificant discounts on veterinary servicesEmployee pet adoption benefitsApplication Instructions:Apply online at https://pbhsnaples.org/careersAll communication with candidates will be over email and/or text - check your spam folder!If you have technical issues or questions, please email hr@pbhsnaples.orgNo phone calls or walk-ins pleaseMORE DETAILED DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESDaily Animal HusbandryProvide daily care for approximately 120 animals (dogs, cats, and occasionally other small animals) including feeding, watering, and ensuring appropriate bedding and enrichmentClean and disinfect kennels, cages, cat condos, runs, communal cat rooms, and yards multiple times daily to maintain safe and sanitary conditionsBehavioral Enrichment & SocializationFacilitate and actively participate in daily playgroups for dogsFacilitate group socialization sessions and manage communal cat roomsProvide individualized enrichment activities based on each animal's species-specific needs (puzzle feeders, toys, scratching posts, climbing opportunities, etc.)Medical SupportConduct daily wellness checks and monitor animals for signs of illness or injuryAdminister medications as directed by the veterinary teamCollect urine and fecal samples as neededCustomer ServiceProvide excellent customer service to visitors and potential adoptersRepresent PBHSN professionally and positively at all times