Job Description
Marion County requires on-site work.Remote work is not available.GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES Independently and in cooperation perform a variety of skilled and semi-skilled work essential for the operation of the Marion County Dog Services using recognized best animal sheltering practices and established practice and procedures.SUPERVISION RECEIVED Works under the general supervision of the Shelter Operations Manager or designee as assigned by the superior who assigns work, sets goals, inspects results, and reviews performance for compliance with shelter policy and procedures, national standards of best practices, laws and regulations.SUPERVISION EXERCISED Supervision exercised is not typically a responsibility of positions in this classification; however, positions may provide training and give instruction to volunteers, inmate work crew and other shelter staff.DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS The Shelter Technician ensures the proper handling, care, and treatment of dogs in the shelter.The Shelter Technician differs from the Veterinary Technician in that it does not provide advanced veterinary care or make medical decisions but may assist upon direction of a veterinarian or Veterinary Technician.Typical Duties - Duties include, but are not limited to the following Animal Care and Safety Maintains a clean, sanitary and safe environment for animals and people.Provides basic animal care and enrichment based on The Five Freedoms:freedom from hunger and thirst, discomfort, pain, injury or disease, to express normal behavior and from fear and distress.Assists management in evaluating, improving, developing, and implementing standard operating procedures and protocols.Trains and oversees inmate workers in daily kennel cleaning and sanitizing, dog care (feeding, enrichment, exercise, etc.), and other assigned duties.When Adult in Custody (AIC) crew is utilized:Exercises direct oversight of inmate workers; including inmate orientation, job assignments, scheduling, reviewing work, and providing training in procedures and protocols.Evaluates work performance:provide direction to inmate workers and implement appropriate discipline and conflict resolution procedures when necessary.Organizes work schedules for all assigned inmate workers based on skill level, training, and ability.Reports inmate behavior, conduct and injuries to the proper authorities.Identifies adoptability based on established protocols.Provides daily mental and physical exercise to dogs through direct interaction and by training inmate workers (when utilized) and volunteers to provide enrichment activities such as food puzzles, environmental enrichment, training and toys.Works safely and follows all applicable health and safety rules.Maintains and cultivates professional relationships.Reports unsafe conditions to supervisor.Perform humane euthanasia as directed by management.Animal Intake and Customer Service Assists customers searching for lost dogs and those bringing stray dogs into the shelter.Counsels' owners as needed regarding medical or behavioral concerns identified during their dog's stay at the shelter.Collects and documents relevant data at intake.Intakes dogs, prepares them for disposition (also known as, Advanced Animal Care duties), receives lost dogs, and administers routine medications, vaccinations, microchips, and other necessary treatments.Safely and humanely examines, weighs, handles, and observes dogs.Works with dogs of all sizes, ages, temperaments, and needs in a safe and humane manner.Observes and documents on the health of dogs to quickly identify any illness, injury, or status changes and reports concerns to veterinary staff and supervisors.Provides professional and compassionate customer service by demonstrating empathy and professionalism to all internal and external customers.Use good judgment and acts on opportunities to educate; approve or deny adoptions; remain calm in difficult situations; creates solutions to meet the needs of the customer and the organization.SPECIALTY PROGRAMS Ensures authorized specialty programs provide value to the community, citizens, and animals, Coordinates internal and external training and education for staff, inmate workers, volunteers and the community.Maintains and updates program materials, including orientation materials, manuals, and handouts.Behavior, Training & Dog Walking Program:Ensures all dogs are behaviorally evaluated in accordance with established guidelines and protocols.Develops behavior plans for dogs with behavioral challenges and ensure proper implementation.Provides daily enrichment, including playgroups.Safely intervenes in dog fights, when necessary, provides behavioral guidance via phone and email, and conducts dog handling and body language classes for staff, volunteers, customers, and inmates.Assists in developing content and provide hands-on instruction to volunteer staff.Provides immediate feedback, addresses concerns, and offers guidance regarding dog handl