Kennel Technician

Hiring Range: $35,077.04 - $39,461.67 (Depending on qualifications)
Full Salary Range: $35,077.04 - $52,615.56

Job description statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job title. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.

Under direct supervision, provides a safe and clean environment for people and animals at the Rowlett Animal Shelter, and provides customer service and assistance to visitors for animal intakes and outplacements. Further, to provide care for animals in the shelter with the goals of maintaining quality of life for animals. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

• Represent the City of Rowlett by providing exceptional customer service; greet customers and provide information about services, animals and laws; communicate effectively and clearly with internal and external customers in person, by phone and via email.
• Clean and disinfect assigned areas daily, including but not limited to kennels, dishes, equipment and laundry.
• Care for, feed and monitor animals for any signs of illness or distress and report any behavior or medical concerns following departmental processes.
• Safely handle and restrain animals while minimizing fear and distress.
• Provide enrichment and exercise for animals.
• Bathe and provide basic grooming of animals.
• Provide guidance to community services workers and volunteers.
• Enter and maintain complete and accurate records in the shelter software system and on paper.
• Collect fees and maintain complete and accurate records of payments.
• Maintain equipment and supplies and keep rooms stocked in a neat and organized manner; report any shortages or equipment problems to the Animal Shelter Manager.
• Perform preventative maintenance and minor repairs on kennels and equipment.
• Performs other duties as assigned. Regular, reliable, and non-disruptive attendance is an essential function of this position, as is the ability to create and maintain professional, harmonious working relationships with others.

• Equivalent to the completion of 12th grade.
• Six (6) months of experience in animal care.
• Specialized training at an animal shelter is preferred.
• Basic Animal Control Certification would be beneficial

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Federal, state and local laws pertaining to animals and Animal Services.
• Animal species, breeds, colors and characteristics, especially related to companion animals, urban wildlife and exotic pets.
• Principles of safe, humane handling and restraint techniques.
• Principles of animal care, disease control, cleaning and disinfection.
• Animal behavior includes signs of fear, aggression and distress.
• Animal health and wellness include signs of illness and disease.
• Industry Software: Sufficient familiarity with technology to use a variety of specialized industry software programs, for documenting person, animal, medical and case information.

Valid driver's license required. Must have and maintain a good driving record in accordance with the driving standards as established by the City of Rowlett. Must report all traffic citations to his/her departmental Director or his/her designee within two working days of receipt.  

Work is in an animal shelter environment. The employee is frequently exposed to zoonotic pathogens, odors, animal feces/urine, toxic or caustic materials, dangerous animals, sick animals, and veterinary-associated medications and sharp objects (needles and surgical blades). Occasionally, s/he is exposed to outside weather conditions. This job requires her/him to make decisions directly affecting the safety of others. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.