Kennel Assistant
Summary
The Sioux Falls Area Humane Society is looking for reliable, team-oriented individuals to join our kennel team. This position plays a vital role in the health and well-being of the animals in our care by maintaining a clean environment, providing daily animal care, and assisting customers and visitors.
The ideal candidate has a strong work ethic, excellent attendance, good customer service skills, and a willingness to jump in wherever needed. This is a hands-on position that includes cleaning kennels, working directly with animals, assisting with playgroups, and supporting daily shelter operations. If you are not afraid to get a little messy and are passionate about helping animals, we would love to meet you.
Schedule
- Part-Time
- Hours vary based on department needs.
- Shifts may include morning cleaning and/or weekend shifts.
- Part-time hours are generally between 7:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
- Must be available to work at least one or two weekend days per week.
- Hours are generally between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
- Typically scheduled as either four 10-hour shifts or five 8-hour shifts.
- Must be available to work at least one or two weekend days per week.
Candidate availability will be considered during the hiring process. Applicants will be asked about their availability and desired number of hours per week during the application process.
Compensation
Starting Pay: $15.00 per hour
Responsibilities
Animal Care
- Clean kennels and animal housing areas daily according to shelter protocols
- Feed animals and monitor appetite, hydration, stool quality, and overall health
- Report concerns regarding animal health or behavior
Playgroups & Enrichment
- Assist with daily dog playgroups and enrichment activities
- Help group, supervise, and monitor dogs during play sessions
- Observe and communicate behavior concerns to appropriate staff
Support
- Move animals throughout the shelter as needed
- Collect fecal and urine samples when required
- Enter information accurately into shelter software systems
- Assist with daily shelter operations and special projects
Communication & Teamwork
- Communicate effectively with coworkers, volunteers, and customers
- Work collaboratively across departments to support animal care and shelter operations
- Maintain a positive, professional attitude and contribute to a supportive team environment
Culture & Safety
- Promote a safe and respectful workplace
- Support the mission and values of the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society
- Help create a positive experience for animals, visitors, volunteers, and staff
Other Duties
- Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications
Reliability
- Excellent attendance and punctuality
- Dependable and able to work independently when needed
Experience
- Customer service experience preferred
- Animal care experience is helpful but not required
Computer Skills
- Basic computer proficiency and ability to learn shelter software
Communication
- Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills
- Ability to communicate professionally with staff, volunteers, and the public
Adaptability
- Flexible and willing to assist in different areas of the shelter as needed
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment where priorities may change
Physical & Emotional Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and clean for extended periods
- Comfortable working around cleaning chemicals, including bleach
- Able to handle the physical and emotional aspects of animal shelter work
- Comfortable working with animals of varying sizes, breeds, and temperaments
- Must have a high level of resiliency
Why Work Here?
- Make a difference in the lives of animals and the people who love them
- Join a team of coworkers who care deeply about animal welfare
- Opportunities for growth and learning
- Work-life balance
- Employee discounts on merchandise and veterinary services
- Unlimited animal cuddles
Benefits
Benefit eligibility varies based on employment status (full-time or part-time) and length of employment.
Available benefits may include:
- Vacation Time
- Sick Leave
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life and AD&D Insurance
- Short-Term Disability
- Long-Term Disability
- Accident Insurance
- Cancer Insurance
- Critical Illness Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Employee Discounts on merchandise, veterinary services, and more
This position description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties, schedules, and responsibilities may change based on organizational needs.