Current Job Openings

The Humane Society of Sonoma County, with a longstanding tradition of giving hope to homeless animals, seeks to hire a full- or part-time Animal Care Technician based at our Santa Rosa campus.

Summary

The Animal Care Technician ensures that all sheltered animals are provided the best possible care and attention while housed with the Humane Society of Sonoma County.  Responsibilities include animal care, housing, cleaning, feeding, occasional bathing & grooming, providing environmental enrichment, and record keeping.  Performs all the necessary functions in maintaining the shelter in a thoroughly clean and sanitary manner and assists the general public as required.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Clean and disinfect all shelter animal housing areas, cages, and runs as necessary to maintain a safe and sanitary environment.
• Feed and provide fresh drinking water to all shelter animals.
• Mop floors; perform laundry, dishwashing, light maintenance, and other janitorial duties as assigned.
• Unload, store and restock equipment, supplies and feed in a proper manner.
• Monitor the daily health, safety, behavior and appearance of all shelter animals reporting anything that requires training and medical services.
• Give medication and supplements as prescribed by the Shelter Veterinarian.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records as required.
• Provide special care as needed or directed including walking dogs and moving animals throughout the shelter.
• Assist with holding animals during medical procedures as needed.
• Maintain a pleasant, professional, courteous and tactful position with co-workers and the public at all times.
• Assist the general public as requested, responding to inquiries of a general nature by telephone and in person.
• Complete classes scheduled by the Behavior & Training Department and Shelter Medicine.
• Actively support and promote the mission and goals of the Humane Society of Sonoma County ensuring a positive image, enhancing the operation of the organization, and improving the quality of life for animals.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Assist the general public in the admittance of their pet or stray animals through proper interviewing techniques and completion of all necessary paperwork.
• Perform minor medical tasks such as gross physical examination, sub-Q vaccinations, microchip implantation, oral general de-wormer and blood draw at time of admittance, if needed.
• Accurately and completely enter admission and any animal information utilizing the Shelter Buddy software.
• May be required to work at the Healdsburg Center as needed

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• The ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.
• Must demonstrate self-motivation, responsibility, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast paced environment.
• Knowledge of domestic animal breeds, diseases, health care and basic animal behavior.
• Ability to properly lift animals, food, and supplies up to 50 pounds.
• Good oral and written communication skills.

Qualifications

• Six (6) months related animal care experience preferred.
• Experience in humane animal handling, restraint and confinement.
• Willingness to work flexible days and hours, including evening shifts, weekends and/or holidays.
• May be required to work at the Healdsburg Center, as needed

Ability to fulfill year-long commitment as Animal Care Technician

Please see full job description here.

Please submit your resume and cover letter with salary requirements to jobs@humanesocietysoco.org.

We are sorry, HSSC is unable to take phone calls or inquiries in person at this time. All applications should be submitted to the “jobs” email above, or mailed to: The Humane Society of Sonoma County, P.O. Box 1296, Santa Rosa, CA 95402.

The Humane Society of Sonoma County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to ensure every animal receives protection, compassion, love and care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and offer a benefit package to employees working 20 or more hours a week, which includes health, dental, and vision insurance, 403(b) retirement plan and staff discounts on our services.

The Humane Society of Sonoma County (HSSC) has a longstanding tradition of giving hope to homeless animals and we’re happy to offer a part time Dog Training Instructor position.

Come and join our team! This is an exciting opportunity to work for an organization voted Best Nonprofit, Best Animal Adoption Center, and Best Charity Event (Wags, Whiskers & Wine) in Sonoma County by the North Bay Bohemian!

We are passionate and dedicated to bringing people and companion animals together for a lifetime of love.

Serving our community since 1931, the Humane Society of Sonoma County (HSSC) is a donor-supported safe haven for animals.

If you love animals and people…you’ll feel right at home in our pack!

The Dog Training Instructor must have excellent skills in Canine Training and superlative customer service skills. He or she will teach group “companion dog” training classes in beginning through advanced levels at both Santa Rosa and Healdsburg locations. They may be asked to teach specialty classes, including Kinderpuppy, Recall, Loose Leash Walking and other classes that meet the needs and interests of the public. This person will conduct workshops that focus on dog-training skill development. He/she is accountable for accomplishing department goals, working collaboratively with internal and external Humane Society of Sonoma County stakeholders and supporting the mission, goals and philosophy of the Humane Society of Sonoma County.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Dog Training Instructor

• Instruct classes as assigned by manager for up to eight clients; class size is determined by location and curriculum.
• Instructor will fill class time slots as assigned by manager. Classes are scheduled according to the shifting needs of the community.
• Instruct classes in a safe and humane manner by adhering to science-based, reward-based, least intrusive, minimally aversive, positive reinforcement animal training.
  • Methodology and philosophy shall include force-free, dog centered training. HSSC does not condone the use of balanced or aversive training methods, defined as, “any circumstance or event that causes pain, fear, or emotional discomfort.” HSSC forbids the use of choke chains, prong collars, spray bottles, striking or hitting, scaring, or other punishing methods.
• Classes shall have at least three (3) or more registered participants. If less than three (3) class will be rescheduled or clients moved to an alternate class.
• Hold makeup classes in a timely manner for any classes cancelled by the trainer or manager during a class series. Consult with manager for scheduling concerns.
• Contact enrolled Clients (and any paid or unpaid assistant) at least (24) hours prior to class commencement and after each class session with pre- and post-class notes. If client cannot be reached via email, phone client before first class date to discuss pre-class notes and/or requirements.
• Communicate via email to Canine Behavior and Training Manager any changes to the class roster following the start date, including but not limited to clients canceling, unforeseen schedule changes or absent clients.
• Consult with clients regarding “next class” options that are best suited to their skill level and dog’s behavior.
• Fulfill required end-of-class cleaning process defined by Canine Behavior and Training

Volunteer Management and Training

• Supervise and work with Classroom Training Assistant volunteers (CTAs).  Explain needs for each weekly class with clear communication. Ensure that CTAs are integrated into the training instruction and practice and are viewed as part of the training “team.”  Provide feedback to CTAs regarding their assistance with class operations and clients. Thank CTA’s for their assistance with classes. Regularly communicate to the Canine Behavior and Training Manager about CTA needs.
• Recruit CTAs and connect them with HSSC’s Volunteer Training Coordinator.

Customer Service

• Provide exemplary customer service by consistently demonstrating courteous, prompt and compassionate service to both internal and external customers.
• Fosters teamwork, respect, integrity and a work culture aligned with HSSC mission and values within the Canine Behavior and Training department as well as the larger HSSC community.
• Works respectively, professionally and compassionately with all HSSC volunteers. Provides guidance and training in procedures and protocols as needed.

Class Marketing

• Follow directions of manager to help develop, market and promote new classes to the public.
• Send photos and video clips of classes in when appropriate to social media and manager.
• Conduct demonstrations, workshops, attend special events, write articles and post social media as needed.

Skill Development

• Actively pursues continuing education, which may include reading published material, watching videos/webinars, listening to podcasts, following social media, attending training classes and/or professional seminars.
• Ability to keep pace with the growth and chances occurring in the Dog Training Industry by demonstrating a willingness to adapt and be flexible.
• Participation in training classes offered by the Canine and Behavior Department.

Safety and Security

• Model and encourage safe practices and regulatory compliance throughout the organization.
• Must be committed to a high standard of safety and be willing and able to comply with all safety laws and all of the employer’s safety policies and rules.
• Maintain appropriate files and records as assigned.
• Adhere to the files and records retention policies and procedures.

SUPERVISION:  This position reports directly to the Canine Behavior and Training Manager.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS: An ideal Candidate will possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Skilled at training dogs of different ages, breeds and sizes.
• Specialized training in dog sports, such as scenting and tricks. Competition experience is required.
• Knowledge of dog breed characteristics.
• Knowledge of canine behavior and modification.
• Flexible, patient and capable of “thinking on your feet” to meet the needs of a diverse class of clients and dogs with varied skills, aptitudes and learning styles.
• Passionate about continually improving their teaching skills and curriculum.
• Ability to teach the class curriculum within the time allowed for each class session and series.
• Ability to provide constructive criticism in a positive and encouraging fashion.
• Ability to teach group dog training classes in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments.
• Ability to manage and direct volunteers in assisting clients and their dogs.
• Skilled at speaking in front of an audience of people and dogs.
• Organized and skilled at multi-tasking.
• Good writing skills for composing follow-up emails to clients.
• Strong customer service skills and a passion for the understanding of the HSSC mission to create and grow lifetime relationships between pets and people through adoption, training, education and care.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:  A typical way of gaining the necessary knowledge, skill and ability outlined above is:

• High school diploma (or equivalent) and a minimum of two of years teaching group dog training classes or four years actively assisting in dog training classes.
• CPDT-KA or KPA-CTP or currently pursing education specific to dog training through an equivalent accredited certification program preferred.
• For Nose Work applicant:  Participant in nose work classes for at least three years, with additional participation in nose work fun matches, trials and workshops to achieve a good understanding of the sport and current training methods.

Possession of a valid California Drivers’ License may be necessary.

Click here for a complete job description.

Please submit resume and cover letter with salary requirements to: jobs@humanesocietysoco.org.

We’re sorry that we are unable to take phone calls or inquiries in person at this time. All applications should be submitted to the “jobs” email link above.

The Humane Society of Sonoma County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to ensure every animal receives protection, compassion, love and care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and offer a benefits package to employees working 20 or more hours a week which includes health, dental, and vision insurance and a 403(b) retirement plan, along with staff discounts on our services.

The Humane Society of Sonoma County, with a longstanding tradition of giving hope to homeless animals, seeks to hire a full time Shelter Operations Manager based at our Santa Rosa campus.

Summary

The Shelter Operations Manager (SOM) is responsible for managing our shelter population; taking into consideration the needs in our community, the available resources in our shelter and the humane treatment of animals under our care. This position works alongside our Veterinary Medical team, and provides direct supervision of the Admissions Department, Animal Care program, Foster program, Behavior and Training program, and the HSSC Volunteer Program to ensure smooth and efficient movement of animals from intake (stray, owner surrender, transfer) to adoption. The successful candidate will be focused on developing processes and procedures which help the Humane Society of Sonoma County operate within its capacity for care, and will have an understanding of “fast track, slow track” methodology. The SOM is keenly focused on minimizing animal length of stay. This is a working management role.
Manages the proper utilization of inventory. Ensures quality animal care, shelter cleanliness and excellent customer service. Ensures quality programming that is in accordance with HSSC’s mission, goals, management and resources. Is responsible for managing budgets

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develops, implements and monitors programs to maintain and improve the standards of humane animal care and customer services to the animals and the community. Ensures quality of programs and services are in accordance to HSSC’s procedure and philosophy. Develops and implements program enhancements to ensure the continued growth and progress in relation to annual and future goals.
• Directs and monitors all aspects of the constant humane treatment and handling of sheltered animals. Reviews policy and monitors aspects of shelter care, including behavioral programs, cleanliness, feeding, housing, and space use. Ensures accurate recordkeeping and maintains quality control.
• Manages shelter animal population, and orchestrates staff to manage the efficient flow and welfare of the shelter’s population. Evaluates and minimizes animal length of stay.
• Lead weekly “rounds” with other managers. Works with the management team to ensure that animals are receiving timely medical and surgical care, behavior evaluations and foster opportunities. Manages intake and housing based on the shelter’s capacity for care.
• Monitors statistics on animal population. Analyzes statistical data to develop new strategies and identify trends.
• Collaborates with departments, campuses, and organizational leadership to maintain alignment of people, processes, and team functions.
• Hire, train, and be a motivating mentor to staff.
• Assists in managing and prioritizing tasks.
• Manage and supervise volunteers in collaboration with department managers and Volunteer program coordinator.
• Initiate and set goals for programs based on the organizations strategic objectives.
• Participates in setting and adhering to department budgets.
• Provides compassionate leadership to shelter staff.
• Along with the Director of Veterinary Services, develops and updates protocols for proper disinfection and infectious disease prevention. Manage disinfection and housing for disease exposure or outbreak response.
• Leads staff discussions regarding placement decisions, behavior plans, and other animal-related concerns. Participates in discussion about, and decisions on euthanasia.
• Meets with the Executive Director regularly.
• Sustain the environment that all protocol, policies and procedures are implemented and maintained at the site with the proper training and written documentation for all staff and volunteers. Focus on the financial health of the organization by maximizing revenue and controlling costs by managing people, systems, and resources.
• Create a climate in which staff is engaged and motivated to be an essential part of the organization. Exemplify the HSSC’s core values throughout your leadership. Demonstrate by personal example the desired standards of conduct and work performance. Foster an environment of cooperation and team work.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of three years management experience, including budgetary and staff supervision, in animal welfare or a similar field, preferably a not-for-profit or an animal welfare organization. Previous experience may be accepted in lieu of a degree where appropriate
• Knowledge and experience in animal care, training, handling and husbandry in a shelter setting.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Strong organizational, planning, and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated ability to gather and analyze facts, devise solutions and implement plans.
• Excellent interpersonal and supervisory skills.
• Ability to work well under pressure and in intense and emotional situations on a daily basis.
• Integrity and honesty in dealing with all facets of position.
• Must be able to lift at least 50 lbs.

Please see full job description here.

Please submit your resume and cover letter with salary requirements to jobs@humanesocietysoco.org.

We are sorry, HSSC is unable to take phone calls or inquiries in person at this time. All applications should be submitted to the “jobs” email above, or mailed to: The Humane Society of Sonoma County, P.O. Box 1296, Santa Rosa, CA 95402.

The Humane Society of Sonoma County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to ensure every animal receives protection, compassion, love and care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and offer a benefit package to employees working 20 or more hours a week, which includes health, dental, and vision insurance, 403(b) retirement plan and staff discounts on our services.