Foster Program Manager

The Foster Program Manager provides day-to-day leadership, team management and coordination support for the organization's foster care program. This people-centered role ensures the program operates efficiently, and in alignment with lifesaving and organizational goals. You will manage foster team staff, implement & support best practices, manage & support day-to-day operations and collaborate cross-departmentally to support timely, thoughtful placements that reduce shelter length of stay and improve animal outcomes.Duties and ResponsibilitiesTeam Leadership & Development Supporting the Director & Assistant Director of this department ensuring alignment with organizational goals and a culture of excellent customer service. Supervise, coach, mentor, and support foster staff members including foster coordinators and foster medical lead, by providing performance feedback and professional development. Participate in hiring and manage onboarding for new team members and interns Cultivate an inclusive, compassionate team culture rooted in collaboration, communication, and accountability. Participate in regular team meetings, one-on-ones, and training to build skills, improve communication, and ensure consistency in the foster program. Foster Program Oversight Oversee & support day-to-day operations including appointments, onboarding, training, placement, and retention. Guide staff in matching animals to foster homes based on behavioral, medical, and enrichment needs. Manage placement strategies with a focus on urgent cases (e.g., neonates, medical recovery, long-stay animals). Work cross-departmentally to communicate and coordinate foster priorities based on shelter population trends. Develop and implement best practices to improve the foster experience and support team success. Ensure continuity of care for animals in foster care by proactively addressing safety, medical, and behavioral concerns. Foster Program Administration Evaluate and improve internal workflows, resources, and communication strategies to enhance program efficiency. Ensure accurate and thorough medical and behavioral documentation is maintained and shared appropriately. Provide strategic oversight of foster caregiver education on medical and behavioral topics to promote safe, informed care. Other duties as assigned. Requirements Bachelor's Degree Strong knowledge and experience with cat and dog behavior with a passion for animal welfare 2+ years of management experience preferred Ability to stay focused on the priorities of the job, as well as to work and think independently Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to implement proactive solutions Proven organizational skills with attention to detail Exceptionally strong communication and interpersonal skills Strong time management skills with the ability to handle numerous responsibilities at once and work well under pressure Excellent leadership skills Ability to multi-task and work well under pressure in a dynamic, team environment Weekend and evening availability – This role will work a Tuesday – Saturday schedule. Physical Requirements Climbing stairs, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, lifting and grasping Walking and moving about to accomplish tasks, particularly for long distances or moving from one work site to another Able to lift 25 lbs occasionally, 101bs frequently and a negligible amount constantly Repetitive motion Ability to travel to PAWS locations as needed PAWS Chicago Values-in-Action Respect: for each and every life. Community: of people and organizations committed to helping homeless pets. Innovation: to constantly improve best practices and seek out new ideas and strategies to save more lives. To be a Learning Center that evolves and grows. Pro-activity: to solve difficult problems and to be prepared to offer emergency and crisis support. Transparency: that informs the public about the fate of homeless animals. Education: that raises awareness about the realities that homeless animals face in the community and across the nations, providing a forum for people to get involved in effecting change. Promotes and support reasonable pet ownership. Sustainability: through financial management practices that maximize the impact and reach of our resources and endure that PAWS Chicago will always be a resource for homeless animals. Compassion: towards all people and animals. Our Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, including ancillary options and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through Blue Cross Blue Shield 403(b) retirement plan with employer match Paid time off, including vacation, sick days, and holidays