Position Summary:
Customer Care Associates at Lawrence Humane Society (LHS) are compassionate, hard-working professionals who enjoy a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Their primary goal is to find suitable homes for the animals in LHS’ care by working with customers who visit the shelter and counseling them towards a great fit with one (or more) of our animals. Other duties include data entry, handling payments and donations, providing direct animal care and cleaning various areas of the shelter on a daily basis. LHS utilizes an open adoption philosophy that emphasizes reducing barriers and saving lives.

Responsibilities:

Customer Service

• Provide extraordinary service to LHS customers who visit or call to inquire about our services and programs
• Actively engage members of the public from the moment they arrive or call LHS
• Counsel prospective adopters to match the appropriate animal to the adopter(s) and educate them on proper animal care
• Inform customers of the animal’s noted medical and behavioral history at LHS and prior (as available)
• Counsel customers on necessary future and ongoing veterinary care as well as any applicable programs and services
• Field (or transfer as needed) calls using a multi-line phone system
• Provide compassionate, respectful counseling to customers when the adoption is not a good fit

Animal Care

• Work with colleagues to provide all animals in LHS’ care with appropriate housing, food, water, bedding, toys and other mental and physical stimulation and enrichment
• Handle dogs (of various sizes and temperaments), cats, and occasionally small mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs, etc.) safely and appropriately throughout the completion of daily cleaning and animal care tasks
• Adhere to established Standard Operating Procedures for shelter operations
• Monitor animals’ health and immediately report any concerns to medical staff

Cleaning

• Thoroughly clean kennels and other animal areas daily and as needed, helping to ensure a clean and sanitary facility at all times
• Use shelter database software and other means of communication and data tracking to to keep an accurate animal inventory, input animal behavior notes and other memos, submit medical exam requests, place holds, etc.

Data Entry and Administrative Tasks

• Process adoptions and related paperwork, collect adoption and other fees, issue receipts, and maintain records of adoption sales transactions
• Ensure all animal kennels are clearly and consistently labeled with accurate, up-to-date information about the animals residing in them

General

• Represent LHS in a courteous and professional manner at all times, providing excellent customer service to all customers, guests, colleagues and volunteers
• Communicate critical information to colleagues as needed to ensure the highest standard of animal care
• Follow all workplace safety rules, actively promoting a safe work environment and taking immediate action to prevent and address hazards. Report any injuries immediately.
• Follow all LHS disease transmission prevention protocols

• Other duties as assigned

Position Requirements:

• At least 18 years of age

• Legal U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
• Compassion and empathy for animal and human clients

• Effective written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills
• Maturity and professionalism
• Organized, detail-oriented, “self-starter” work ethic
• Problem solving skills
• Ability to work individually and on a team
• Windows and Microsoft Office proficiency. Ability to learn new software.
• Commitment to ongoing learning and growth
• Sound judgement in handling sensitive and confidential information
• Able to communicate effectively with people of various ages and backgrounds

• No allergies to animals or chemical cleaning agents
• Able to work holidays and weekends as needed

Preferred Skills/Knowledge:

• Strong customer service background
• Ability to learn computer software quickly
• Calm and level-headed in difficult and emotional situations
• Experience in the animal welfare field

• Experience working for a nonprofit organization
• Knowledge of basic animal handling, behavior and health
• Basic knowledge of Google applications
• Proven ability to work in a team environment with a variety of people

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

• Considerable time communicating with the public
• Contact with angry and emotional individuals, potentially dangerous animals, and deceased animals can occur
• Exposure to animal bites, scratches, dander, parasites, infectious diseases, strong odors and fumes from caustic chemicals, and animal waste
• Exposure to high noise levels
• Use of a portable radio and headset required
• Work in a stationary position for extended periods of time using a computer
• Traverse the facility and grounds for extended periods of time performing labor that may include walking (with and without animals weighing up to 150 pounds), reaching with hands and arms, climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching and/or crawling, lifting up to 50 pounds without assistance and operating various tools and equipment
• Exposure to wet, cold, and/or humid conditions while working outdoors
• Occasional need to operate LHS vehicles, including 1-ton pick-up truck and full-size van (preferred, not required).

The Lawrence Humane Society believes that our organization is strengthened by the diversity of our staff, and welcome such diversity including race, gender identity or expression, educational attainment, disability, veteran status, and personal experiences. The Lawrence Humane Society encourages applications from people of all cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.

POSITION: Animal Services Manager
CLASSIFICAION: Non-Exempt (hourly), Full-time
REPORTS TO: Senior Manager of Community Support Services
SUPRERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Yes

POSITION SUMMARY

The mission of the Lawrence Humane Society (LHS) is to nurture the human-animal bond by providing shelter, care, and advocacy for homeless and vulnerable animals, as well as resources for the people and pets in our community. The Lawrence Humane Society realizes pet homelessness affects our entire community and as part of the mission, seeks to support pet owners in crisis. We believe in respecting and supporting the pet and pet owner and seek to create a work culture that promotes compassion, innovation, and excellence.

At a time when animal control field services is undergoing a renaissance, challenging commonly held views on the role of punitive enforcement, mandatory impoundment, proposing new approaches to solving noncompliance in the community, the Animal Services Manager is a critical new role within the organization.

The Animal Services Manager provides innovative leadership, both external and internal, regarding the Lawrence Humane Society’s role and responsibilities in enforcing relevant local ordinances and state statutes related to animals. This position will help usher in a new understanding of what “success” looks like when enforcement officers work to encourage compliance over punishment for violations of animal-related offenses. They will work both in the field as a Animal Services Officer and work collaboratively with Community Caseworkers within the Pet Resource Center, ensuring support programs are utilized to ensure compliance. This position partners closely with the Senior Manager of Community Support Services and Animal Welfare Counsel to build a field services model committed to compliance and equity within our community.

The position is subject to the common risks of animal control enforcement and care.  Work is performed in accordance with local ordinances and state statutes. 

The Animal Services Supervisor reports to the Senior Manager of Community Support Services, and supervises 1 part-time Animal Services Officer.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Field Work

• Receive and respond to requests for animal control service(s), including but not limited to aiding residents in the compliance of animal control regulations, capturing and confining of stray animals and attempting to locate and return animals to the owners prior to impoundment, rescuing injured and diseased animals and impounding (when necessary) dangerous or potentially dangerous animals.
• Treat all animals humanely, properly and with compassion at all times.
• Provide community outreach and engagement with residents to provide information on proper pet care and control including spay/neuter, welfare concerns, and related ordinances and regulations.
• Maintain records of various impounds, road activities, investigations, etc.
• Conduct investigations and issues citations (when appropriate) for violations of local (county) ordinances.
• Testify in administrative hearings or district court, when compliance efforts fail against owners who disregard or violate ordinances.
• Operate a company vehicle in carrying out field duties.
• Maintain all assigned equipment to ensure cleanliness and proper functioning.
• Work with leadership to ensure that LHS is consistently working to ensure compliance with local ordinances and state statutes.
• Manage data, ensuring that the appropriate data is collected and is relevant in supporting goals. Create and run reports, analyze data, and utilize data analysis to update current policies, programming or develop new policies on enforcement.
• Maintain a knowledge of pet-related issues (behavior, medical, handling, etc.) and resources, as well as human/social service issues (houselessness, immigration, mental health issues, poverty, racial inequity) and resources.
• Maintain a knowledge of safe capture of all types of animals.
• Proactively engage with community agencies working on compliance and public safety.
• Develop and implement creative and innovative strategies for response to complaints to better meet the needs of the community, integrating proven techniques from other animal control agencies for increased effectiveness.
• Plan and implement events with Senior Manager of Community Support Services that achieve compliance for animal owners.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

• Ensure that all interactions, processes, and procedures meet the organizational DEI lens.
• Work with the Executive Director to establish an organizational ethos of non-judgmental service to the Douglas County community.
• Work collaboratively with community members and partner organizations to look closely at the reasons pet owners are in violation of animal ordinances, so that root causes and potential solutions can be identified.
• Increase outreach to communities historically underserved and lacking relationships with LHS. Build and strengthen trusted relationships with all members of the community.

Organizational Leadership, Strategy Development, and Ethos Adherence

• Stay up to date and involved in animal welfare, animal control/field services, and human service initiatives on a local and national level in order to identify gaps in service provision, enhancing public safety, building community partnerships, and ensuring resident compliance with local ordinances and state statutes.
• Assist leadership to recruit, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate one part-time Animal Services Officer, ensuring proper policies and procedures are followed consistently. Provide additional training and development; address challenges as needed.
• Work with the Senior Manager of Community Support Services and Animal Welfare Counsel to develop Animal Services SOPs, goals and objectives, schedules and budget.
• Monitor progress towards Animal Services goals on an ongoing basis. Work with Animal Welfare Counsel to adjust processes for greater effectiveness on a micro and macro level.
• Work with the Senior Manager of Community Support Services and Animal Welfare Counsel to identify and troubleshoot challenges in the day-to-day running of programs.
• Work collaboratively with other departments to ensure staff are cross-trained, feel confident supporting one another in their work duties, and understand the ecosystem functioning of LHS.
• Provide narratives, programmatic ideas, and budgets for grants and other funding opportunities.
• Work with Animal Welfare Counsel in collaboration with department managers and senior management team to facilitate the timely flow of animals impounded by Animal Services through LHS.
• When not responding to calls, work on ways to promote the preventative approach/model to the community we serve.
• Identify need in the community and work in collaboration with Senior Manager of Community Supportive Services and the Social Worker to address unmet needs.
• Work in collaboration with Animal Welfare Counsel and Senior Manager of Community Supportive Services to innovate new models of enforcement.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent. A college degree is not required but is considered a plus.
• Two years of supervisory experience of 1 or more employees.
• Two years of customer service experience.
• Experience working in community outreach, social service, and/or social justice nonprofit field preferred.
• Experience in a kennel, shelter or veterinary setting preferred.
• Experience navigating conversations about race, gender, immigration, disability, socioeconomic status, housing, and other issues around privilege and equity.
• Valid driver’s license and safe driving record.
• Have a basic understanding of Microsoft Suite, Shelter Database, Database Analytics & Collection within the first 90 days of employment.
• Must be able to complete coursework and pass certification exam for National Animal Control (NACA) ACO Basics I & II Certification within the first quarter of 2022.
• Must be able to complete in-house training program.
• Strong written and oral communication skills and appropriate self-confidence and maturity so as to effectively communicate the vision, mission, and work of LHS to all community members, as well as in a manner inspiring to staff, board, donors and volunteers.
• Willingness to work any shift, including weekends and holiday (including limited notice response for emergencies and disaster response).

COMPETENCIES

• Proven track record of being intentionally inclusive and welcoming, particularly with communities different than one’s self.
• Evident desire to serve both people and pets; demonstrating compassion for animals and people, sometimes in emotionally difficult and complex situations, without judgment.
• Ability to set and meet goals and balance multiple projects, possessing strong time management and organizational skills.
• Effective, experienced, and confident public speaker.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office. Ability to learn how to use new software, platforms, and applications to efficiently and effectively manage information.
• Goal-driven, holding self and others accountable to department and organizational goals, with effective skills at prioritizing and redirecting activities to achieve the desired outcomes.
• Highly developed critical thinking skills and a focus on consistent process improvement.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Effective use of deescalate techniques in tense/emotionally charged situations.

 
An ideal candidate will embody the following characteristics:

• Maturity in articulating personal needs, wants, perspectives.
• Tact and courtesy in explaining proper animal care and animal control regulations to animal owners and the general public.
• Engagement and actively listening when communicating with others so that others feel heard and understood.
• Ability to remain pleasant and calm in a high stress environment.
• Working knowledge of, or ability to learn, relevant laws and ordinances related to animal control.
• Highly strategic, never losing sight of the big picture.
• Independent judgment and initiative in application of the law.
• Handling animals of all temperaments, species, breeds, and sizes in a humane and safe manner.
• Ability to work with animals of unknown disposition and animals who may exhibit medical and/or other problems, including aggressive tendencies.
• Ability to use the equipment and physical means necessary for the purpose of capturing and caring for animals.
• Ability to record and maintain accurate records concerning daily activities, calls and investigations.
• Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms.
• Works with minimal supervision and direction.
• Willingness to cross-train and support other team members or departments as needed.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to handle domestic, exotic, wildlife, and animals with dangerous or unknown temperament. 
• Exposure to animals and all risks associated with animal contact including bites, scratches, dander, parasites, infectious/zoonotic diseases, strong odors and fumes from caustic chemicals, and animal waste.
• Periodic exposure to ill and deceased animals in the course of work.
• Regular contact with upset and emotional individuals.
• Physically able to operate a variety of machinery and equipment including a motor vehicle, two-way radios, hand tools, animal traps, etc. 
• Changing work environment with a shared work space.
• Work in a stationary position for extended periods of time using a computer.
• Use of company vehicle to perform work in the field, in all weather conditions.
• Considerable time communicating with the public.
• Exposure to high noise levels.
• Traverse the facility and grounds as well as the field for extended periods of time performing labor that may include walking (with and without animals weighing up to 150 pounds), reaching with hands and arms, climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching and/or crawling, lifting up to 50 pounds without assistance and operating various tools and equipment.
• Exposure to wet, cold, and/or humid conditions when working outdoors.

HOW TO APPLY:
To apply for this position, please send a cover letter and resume to Shannon Wells, Executive Director, swells@lawrencehumane.org. (Please do not use the Apply Today button below.)

The Lawrence Humane Society believes that our organization is strengthened by the diversity of our staff, and welcome such diversity including race, gender identity or expression, educational attainment, disability, veteran status, and personal experiences. The Lawrence Humane Society encourages applications from people of all cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. 

POSITION: Animal Services Office
REPORTS TO: Animal Services Manager
CLASSIFICAION: Non-Exempt (hourly), Full Time
SUPRERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: No

POSITION SUMMARY

The mission of the Lawrence Humane Society (LHS) is to nurture the human-animal bond by providing shelter, care, and advocacy for homeless and vulnerable animals, as well as resources for the people and pets in our community. The Lawrence Humane Society realizes pet homelessness affects our entire community and as part of the mission, seeks to support pet owners in crisis. We believe in respecting and supporting the pet and pet owner and seek to create a work culture that promotes compassion, innovation, and excellence.

The Pet Resource Center (PRC) is an integral component of achieving this mission. The PRC is staffed by three Community Caseworkers who report to the Community Caseworker Supervisor, one Animal Services Supervisor, one Animal Services Community Caseworker, and is led by the Senior Manager of Community Support Services. We believe in respecting and supporting the pet and pet owner and seek to create a work culture that promotes compassion, innovation, and excellence. Community Caseworkers are responsible for all animals entering the shelter through law enforcement, Animal Control, our own Animal Services division, transfers, stray pets found, and at times, owner surrenders. Community Caseworkers process incoming requests for pet surrenders, work with pet owners to keep pets in the home, work with community partners and human service organizations to create solutions for pets and owners, and counsel the public on animal care.

At a time when animal control field services is undergoing a renaissance, challenging commonly held views on the role of punitive enforcement, mandatory impoundment, proposing new approaches to solving noncompliance in the community, the Animal Services Community Caseworker is a critical new role within the organization that supports the Animal Services division and the PRC.

The Animal Services Officer works both in the field and in the PRC at the shelter . This position will help usher in a new understanding of what “success” looks like when enforcement officers work to encourage compliance over punishment for violations of animal-related offenses. They will work collaboratively with Community Caseworkers within the Pet Resource Center, ensuring programs are utilized to ensure compliance. This position partners closely with the Animal Services Manager and Animal Welfare Counsel to use a field services model committed to compliance and equity within our community.

The position is subject to the common risks of animal control enforcement and care.  Work is performed in accordance with local ordinances and state statutes. 

The Animal Services Community Caseworker reports to the Animal Services Manager.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Field Work 

• Process all incoming animals, including stray, surrendered, and transferred animals. Support colleagues in managing animal flow. Employ the use of lower stress animal handling techniques.
• Deliver services and programs with an open-minded and inclusive attitude. Treat each community encounter with respect, kindness, and compassion.
• Respond to pet owners requesting assistance.
• Become familiar with community resources such as food banks, medical services, housing assistance, and other human services programs. Connect pet owners to community resources that they may need.
• Offer information and counseling on spay/neuter, animal behavior, basic veterinary care, and general pet care both at the shelter and in the field.
• Offer owners food, crates, carriers, and other supplies that may be available while at the shelter and in the field.
• Understand and abide by all federal, state, and local ordinances, as well as state regulations.
• Diligently enter communication and information into shelter management software, retrieve and report on data collected, and offer solutions based on data collected.
• Keep records of all communications and assistance provided to pet owners and community members. Track data with care and diligence.
• Provide re-homing packets to owners who wish to rehome their pets privately. Include adoption information, meet and greet instructions, questions to ask future owners, etc.
• Communicate critical information to colleagues as needed to ensure the highest standard of animal care and customer service.
• Follow all workplace safety rules, actively promoting a safe work environment and taking immediate action to prevent and address hazards.
• Follow all LHS disease transmission prevention protocols.
• Participate in interdepartmental discussions to support and develop LHS initiatives.
• Receive and respond to requests for animal control service(s), including but not limited to aiding residents in the compliance of animal control regulations, capturing and confining of stray animals and attempting to locate and return animal to the owners prior to impoundment, rescuing injured and diseased animals and impounding, when necessary, dangerous animals.
• Treat all animals humanely, properly and with compassion at all times.
• Maintain records of various impounds, road activities, investigations, etc.
• Conduct investigations and issue citations (when appropriate) for violations of local (county) ordinances,
• Testify in administrative hearings or district court, when compliance efforts fail against owners who disregard or violate ordinances.
• Operate a company vehicle in carrying out enforcement duties.
• Maintains all assigned equipment to ensure cleanliness and proper functioning.
• Maintain a knowledge of safe capture of all types of animals.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

• Ensure that all interactions, process, and procedures meet the organizational DEI lens.
• Follow the organizational ethos of non-judgmental service to the Douglas County community.
• Work collaboratively with community members and partner organizations provide solutions that address root causes for animal ordinance violations.
• Support the Animal Services Manager in efforts to increase outreach to communities historically underserved and lacking relationships with LHS. Build and strengthen trusted relationships with all members of the community.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Compassion for animals and pet owners, sometimes in emotionally difficult and complex situations, without judgment.
• Passion for serving the community as a whole and individual people.
• Highly collaborative with colleagues and community partners.
• Demonstrably sound judgement in dealing with the public and handling sensitive and confidential information.
• Highly developed critical thinking skills, a commitment to ongoing learning and growth, and a willingness to consistently address process improvement.
• Skilled at conflict resolution and dealing with challenging individuals.
• Ability to prioritize, multi-task, and endure a fast pace.
• Effective written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills with a diverse range of individuals, sometimes in an emotional, fast-paced setting.
• Proficiency with computers and able to quickly learn new software.
• General animal behavior and care knowledge.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in documentation and data entry.
• Valid driver’s license and a safe driving record.
• Must be able to complete coursework and pass certification exam for National Animal Control (NACA) ACO Basics I & II Certification within the first quarter of 2022.
• Must be able to complete in-house training program.

COMPETENCIES

• Proven track record of being intentionally inclusive and welcoming, particularly with communities different than one’s self.
• Evident desire to serve both people and pets; demonstrating compassion for animals and people, sometimes in emotionally difficult and complex situations, without judgment.
• Ability to set and meet goals and balance multiple projects, possessing strong time management and organizational skills.
• Effective, experienced, and confident public speaker.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office. Ability to learn how to use new software, platforms, and applications to efficiently and effectively manage information.
• Goal-driven, holding self accountable to department and organizational goals, with effective skills at prioritizing and redirecting activities to achieve the desired outcomes.
• Highly developed critical thinking skills and a focus on consistent process improvement.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

An ideal candidate will embody the following characteristics:

• Tact and courtesy in explaining proper animal care and animal control regulations to animal owners and the general public.
• Ability to engage and actively listening when communicating with others so that others feel heard and understood.
• Ability to remain pleasant and calm in a high stress environment.
• Working knowledge of, or ability to learn, relevant laws and ordinances related to animal control.
• Highly strategic, never losing sight of the big picture.
• Independent judgment and initiative in application of the law, once trained.
• Handling animals of all temperaments, species, breeds, and sizes in a humane and safe manner.
• Ability to work with animals of unknown disposition and animals who may exhibit medical and/or other problems, including aggressive tendencies.
• Ability to use the equipment and physical means necessary for the purpose of capturing and caring for animals.
• Ability to record and maintain accurate records concerning daily activities, calls and investigations.
• Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms.
• Works with minimal supervision and direction.
• Attention to detail in record keeping.
• Willingness to work any shift, including weekends and holiday (including limited notice response for emergencies and disaster response).

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to handle domestic, exotic, wildlife, and animals with dangerous or unknown temperament. 
• Exposure to animals and all risks associated with animal contact including bites, scratches, dander, parasites, infectious/zoonotic diseases, strong odors and fumes from caustic chemicals, and animal waste.
• Periodic exposure to ill and deceased animals in the course of work.
• Regular contact with upset and emotional individuals.
• Physically able to operate a variety of machinery and equipment including a motor vehicle, two-way radios, hand tools, animal traps, etc. 
• Changing work environment with a shared work space.
• Work in a stationary position for extended periods of time using a computer.
• Use of company vehicle to perform work in the field, in all weather conditions.
• Considerable time communicating with the public.
• Exposure to high noise levels.
• Traverse the facility and grounds as well as the field for extended periods of time performing labor that may include walking (with and without animals weighing up to 150 pounds), reaching with hands and arms, climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching and/or crawling, lifting up to 50 pounds without assistance and operating various tools and equipment.
• Exposure to wet, cold, and/or humid conditions when working outdoors.

HOW TO APPLY:
To apply for this position, please send a cover letter and resume to Shannon Wells, Executive Director, swells@lawrencehumane.org. (Please do not use the Apply Today button below.)

The Lawrence Humane Society believes that our organization is strengthened by the diversity of our staff, and welcome such diversity including race, gender identity or expression, educational attainment, disability, veteran status, and personal experiences. The Lawrence Humane Society encourages applications from people of all cultures, backgrounds, and experien

Position: Behavior Coordinator
Classification: Non-Exempt (hourly), Full-time
Reports to: Director of Operations
Supervisory Responsibilities: Yes

Position Summary: 

Lawrence Humane Society (LHS) is an animal shelter in Lawrence, KS that serves the needs of homeless companion animals, finds safe homes for more than 3,000 animals each year, offers 24-hour daily rescue for injured stray animals, and investigates allegations of animal abuse to assist law enforcement. More than 4,500 animals are admitted to our shelter every year.

The Behavior Coordinator (BC) provides direction for the behavior and enrichment functions of Lawrence Humane Society. S/he will partner closely with the Director of Operations (DO) and Executive Director (ED) to develop, implement, and monitor all programs intended to identify, correct, and prevent problem behavior in cats and dogs, in addition to any new behavior initiatives LHS pursues. S/he will oversee and coordinate all behavior and enrichment functions, including daily playgroups for all dogs in the facility.  The BC will recommend appropriate treatment and placement pathways for shelter animals.

The BC is responsible for the supervision, training, development and support of behavior volunteers, as well as training new staff on LHS behavior programs and animal handling, body language, and more specialized behavior topics as needed. The BC is responsible for working with the Volunteer Coordinator to schedule behavior volunteer shifts and initial and ongoing animal handling and behavior training for new staff and volunteers.

Key Responsibilities: 

Oversight and Strategic Development of LHS Behavior Programs:

• Supervise behavior volunteers, coordinating their training, placement, development, performance feedback and ongoing support
• Review behavior program practices and procedures to ensure efficient and economical use of time and other resources, and creates and updates SOPs and policies as needed
• Design and facilitate animal behavior and handling training to staff, providing follow up training and feedback as needed or requested, including on occasion, developing and directing behavior seminars and workshops for staff, volunteers, partners and the public
• Maintain accurate and complete records on animals, behavior modification plans, staff, volunteers, correspondence with the public, and activities related to behavior program
• Engage in open communication with DO to give and receive input regarding procedures, policies, personnel and budget issues related to behavior program
• In collaboration with the DO, Animal Welfare Manager and other colleagues, develop, maintain, and evaluate processes and procedures related to the behavior program to facilitate the smooth and timely flow of animals through the shelter
• Meet with DO on a regular basis to ensure goals are being met and priorities are aligned

Daily Operation of Behavior Programs:

• Oversee the execution of daily behavior program activities, including playgroups, dog and cat assessments, and animal socialization training classes
• Provide referral information and advice on animal behavior issues, training methods and training equipment to staff, volunteers, other stakeholders and the public both scheduled and unscheduled
• Design and manage individual training programs and behavior modification plans for shelter animals to improve behavior and increase chance for adoption
• Meet with members of the public who are surrendering their animal to glean detailed behavior information in order to help decide appropriate placement for the animal

Administrative:

• Draft an annual budget for the behavior program, tracking spending through the year to ensure adherence to the budget and requesting amendments as needed  
• Prepare monthly report on behavior program activities
• Collect data from new and existing behavior programs and activities to assess their feasibility and measure their effectiveness

Position Requirements:

• At least 18 years of age and a legal U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident

• High School Diploma or GED

• Bachelor’s degree in related area (may substitute adequate relevant work experience)
• 3+ years of work experience in an animal sheltering environment 
• Formal training in animal handling, training, and behavior evaluations
• Ability to assess and evaluate new animal training methods and equipment
• Knowledge of cat and dog breed characteristics and behaviors, animal restraint and handling techniques. Ability to interpret animal body language.
• Demonstrably sound judgement in dealing with the public and handling sensitive and confidential information
• Able to communicate effectively in person, on the phone, and through writing with people of various ages and backgrounds
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Commitment to ongoing learning and growth
• Windows and Microsoft Office proficiency
• No allergies to animals or chemical cleaning agents
• Some flexibility in availability to adjust work schedule in support of events and deadlines
• Experience in a supervisory role

Preferred Skills/Knowledge:

• Formal dog training certification
• Basic knowledge of Google applications
• Demonstrated teaching ability including basic teaching methods and curriculum development
• Experience in planning, leading and managing strategic projects
• Experience designing, conducting and analyzing research projects in an animal shelter environment

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

• Work in a stationary position for extended periods of time using a computer
• Traverse the LHS facility and grounds for extended periods of time performing labor that may include walking, reaching with hands and arms, climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching and/or crawling, lifting up to 50 pounds without assistance and operating various tools and equipment
• Exposure to animal bites, scratches, dander, parasites, infectious diseases, strong odors and fumes from caustic chemicals and animal waste
• Exposure to wet, cold, and/or humid conditions while working outdoors
• Exposure to high noise levels
• Use of a portable radio and headset required
• Operate LHS vehicles, including a truck and full-size van

To apply for this position, please click the “Apply Today” button below.

POSITION: Customer Care Associate
CLASSIFICAION: Non-Exempt (hourly), Full-time
REPORTS TO: Customer Care Manager
SUPRERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: No

POSITION SUMMARY:
The mission of the Lawrence Humane Society is to nurture the human-animal bond by providing shelter, care, and advocacy for homeless and vulnerable animals, as well as resources for the people and pets in our community. The Lawrence Humane Society realizes pet homelessness affects our entire community and as part of the mission, seeks to support pet owners in crisis.

Customer Care Associates at Lawrence Humane Society (LHS) are compassionate, hard-working professionals who enjoy a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Their primary goal is to find suitable homes for the animals in LHS’ care by working with customers who visit the shelter and counseling them towards a great fit with one (or more) of our animals. Other duties include data entry, handling payments and donations, providing direct animal care and cleaning various areas of the shelter on a daily basis. LHS utilizes an open adoption philosophy that emphasizes reducing barriers and saving lives. 

RESPONSIBITIES:

Customer Service

• Provide extraordinary service to LHS customers who visit or call to inquire about our services and programs
• Actively engage members of the public from the moment they arrive or call LHS
• Counsel prospective adopters to match the appropriate animal to the adopter(s) and educate them on proper animal care
• Inform customers of the animal’s noted medical and behavioral history at LHS and prior (as available)
• Counsel customers on necessary future and ongoing veterinary care as well as any applicable programs and services
• Field (or transfer as needed) calls using a multi-line phone system
• Provide compassionate, respectful counseling to customers when the adoption is not a good fit

Animal Care

• Work with colleagues to provide all animals in LHS’ care with appropriate housing, food, water, bedding, toys and other mental and physical stimulation and enrichment
• Handle dogs (of various sizes and temperaments), cats, and occasionally small mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs, etc.) safely and appropriately throughout the completion of daily cleaning and animal care tasks
• Adhere to established Standard Operating Procedures for shelter operations
• Monitor animals’ health and immediately report any concerns to medical staff 

Cleaning 

• Thoroughly clean kennels and other animal areas daily and as needed, helping to ensure a clean and sanitary facility at all times
• Use shelter database software and other means of communication and data tracking to to keep an accurate animal inventory, input animal behavior notes and other memos, submit medical exam requests, place holds, etc.

Data Entry and Administrative Tasks

• Process adoptions and related paperwork, collect adoption and other fees, issue receipts, and maintain records of adoption sales transactions
• Ensure all animal kennels are clearly and consistently labeled with accurate, up-to-date information about the animals residing in them

General

• Represent LHS in a courteous and professional manner at all times, providing excellent customer service to all customers, guests, colleagues and volunteers
• Communicate critical information to colleagues as needed to ensure the highest standard of animal care
• Follow all workplace safety rules, actively promoting a safe work environment and taking immediate action to prevent and address hazards. Report any injuries immediately.
• Follow all LHS disease transmission prevention protocols
• Other duties as assigned

Position Requirements:

• At least 18 years of age
• Legal U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
• Compassion and empathy for animal and human clients
• Effective written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills
• Maturity and professionalism
• Organized, detail-oriented, “self-starter” work ethic
• Problem solving skills
• Ability to work individually and on a team
• Windows and Microsoft Office proficiency.  Ability to learn new software.
• Commitment to ongoing learning and growth
• Sound judgement in handling sensitive and confidential information
• Able to communicate effectively with people of various ages and backgrounds
• No allergies to animals or chemical cleaning agents
• Able to work holidays and weekends as needed

PREFERRED SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE

• Strong customer service background
• Ability to learn computer software quickly
• Calm and level-headed in difficult and emotional situations
• Experience in the animal welfare field

• Experience working for a nonprofit organization
• Knowledge of basic animal handling, behavior and health
• Basic knowledge of Google applications
• Proven ability to work in a team environment with a variety of people

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Considerable time communicating with the public
• Contact with angry and emotional individuals, potentially dangerous animals, and deceased animals can occur
• Exposure to animal bites, scratches, dander, parasites, infectious diseases, strong odors and fumes from caustic chemicals, and animal waste
• Exposure to high noise levels
• Use of a portable radio and headset required
• Work in a stationary position for extended periods of time using a computer
• Traverse the facility and grounds for extended periods of time performing labor that may include walking (with and without animals weighing up to 150 pounds), reaching with hands and arms, climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching and/or crawling, lifting up to 50 pounds without assistance and operating various tools and equipment
• Exposure to wet, cold, and/or humid conditions while working outdoors
• Occasional need to operate LHS vehicles, including 1-ton pick-up truck and full-size van (preferred, not required).

To apply for this position, please click the “Apply Today” button below.

POSITION: Senior Manager of Community Support Services
CLASSIFICAION: Exempt (salary), Full-time
REPORTS TO: Executive Director
SUPRERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Yes

POSITION SUMMARY

The mission of the Lawrence Humane Society (LHS) is to nurture the human-animal bond by providing shelter, care, and advocacy for homeless and vulnerable animals, as well as resources for the people and pets in our community. The Lawrence Humane Society realizes pet homelessness affects our entire community and as part of the mission, seeks to support pet owners in crisis. We believe in respecting and supporting the pet and pet owner and seek to create a work culture that promotes compassion, innovation, and excellence.

At a time when the animal sheltering industry and animal control field services are undergoing a renaissance, challenging commonly held views on the role of shelters as well as the value of punitive pet owner punishment, and proposing new approaches to solving pet problems in the community, the Senior Manager of Community Support Services is a critical new role within the organization.

The Senior Manager of Community Support Services provides strategic leadership, both external and internal, regarding the Lawrence Humane Society’s role and responsibilities as a social service organization. They will help usher in a new understanding of what “success” looks like when animal shelters work to support the pet owner as the primary aid recipient and when enforcement officers work to encourage compliance over punishment. They will oversee the strategic direction of the Pet Resource Center, ensuring that programs – including Lawrence Humane’s new Field Services division – are effective and efficient in meeting the needs of the community as well as the goals of the organization. They will supervise the LHS Social Worker and help oversee the strategic direction and daily implementation of LHS’s signature Crisis Pet Retention (CPR) Fund, ensuring that this program is effective and efficient in meeting the needs of the community as well as the goals of the organization. They will partner closely with the Executive Director (ED), Animal Welfare Counsel, and Director of Development & Communications to build an animal welfare culture committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The Senior Manager of Community Support Services reports to the LHS Executive Director, is a member of the senior management team that works collaboratively to supervise daily operations, and supervises the LHS Social Worker and the Pet Resource Center’s team of Community Caseworkers and Field Services Officers.

ABOUT THE CRISIS PET RETENTION (CPR) FUND

The Crisis Pet Retention (CPR) Fund is a signature program of LHS, launched in October 2020, and born out of an attempt to keep people and pets together during a global pandemic and live the dedication to equity and inclusion that LHS has committed to. Since the CPR Fund was launched, it has become an invaluable tool for LHS to keep people and pets together and keep pets with loving owners out of the shelter so that shelter space is utilized by animals who truly have no other options. It has also become an invaluable and trusted community resource through which LHS is able to support community members in need with pet food and supplies, access to essential vet care, support with emergency/specialty vet care, assistance with pet rent/deposits, and temporary crisis boarding for pets so that owners have the ability to get back on their feet and be reunited with their pets rather than surrendering them. It will be the responsibility of the Senior Manager of Community Support Services to supervise and support the LHS Social Worker in building upon current CPR Fund successes and expand the program with additional outreach, community partnerships, and innovative services.

ABOUT THE PET RESOURCE CENTER

The LHS Pet Resource Center (PRC) currently houses three Community Caseworkers who are responsible for all animals entering the shelter through law enforcement, City of Lawrence Animal Control, stray pets, and owner surrenders. Community Caseworkers process incoming requests for pet surrenders, work with pet owners to keep pets in the home, work with community partners and human service organizations to create solutions for pets and owners in partnership with the LHS Social Worker, and counsel the public on animal care. It will be the responsibility of the Senior Manager of Community Support Services to supervise and support the three Community Caseworkers

ABOUT ANIMAL FIELD SERVICES

Starting January 1, 2022, LHS will be taking over Animal Field Services for rural and unincorporated Douglas County. As such, one full-time and one part-time Field Services Officers will be joining the PRC team. These two positions will be responsible for receiving and responding to requests for animal control services such as aiding residents in the compliance of animal control regulations, capturing and confining of stray animals and attempting to locate and return animal to the owners prior to impoundment, rescuing injured and diseased animals and impounding (when necessary) dangerous animals. They will also provide community outreach and engagement with residents to provide information on proper pet care and control including spay/neuter, welfare concerns, and related ordinances and regulations.

The transition of animal control field services to the purview of LHS represents an important opportunity to challenge commonly held views on the role of punitive enforcement and mandatory impoundment, as well as propose new approaches to solving noncompliance in the community. It will be the responsibility of the Senior Manager of Community Support Services to support the Field Services Officers in providing innovative leadership regarding LHS’s role and responsibilities in enforcing relevant local ordinances and state statutes related to animals and building a field services model committed to compliance and equity within our community.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategy Development and Ethos Adherence

• Stay up to date and involved in animal welfare and human service initiatives on a local and national level in order to identify gaps in service provision, build community partnerships, and ensure that programming stays relevant and impactful.
• Work with leadership to ensure that LHS is consistently working to reduce barriers Douglas County residents face to accessing pet-related services.
• Manage data, ensuring that the appropriate data is collected and is relevant in supporting goals. Create and run reports, analyze data, and utilize data analysis to update current programming or develop new programs.
• Maintain a knowledge of pet-related issues (behavior, medical, handling, etc.) and resources, as well as human/social service issues (houselessness, immigration, mental health issues, poverty, racial inequity) and resources.
• Proactively engage with community agencies working on issues of homelessness, housing, immigration, food insecurity, etc. and identify and develop strategic partnerships for more effective and comprehensive service delivery.
• Develop and implement creative and innovative new programming to better meet the needs of the community, integrating proven techniques from the social service realm for increased effectiveness.
• Plan and implement events and other activities that fill identified gaps (e.g. vaccine clinics), collaborating with community partners as much as possible.
  
  

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

• Work with the ED to establish an organizational ethos of non-judgmental service, which reverberates through programming, staffing changes, and how the Douglas County community experiences their interactions with LHS.
• In partnership with the ED, assess all LHS operations, practices, and policies through an equity lens. Work with leadership to foster an inclusive, compassionate, judgment-free staff environment.
• Help facilitate challenging organizational conversations critical to successfully running an organization rooted in anti-racism and poverty-decriminalization.
• Work collaboratively with community members and partner organizations to look closely at the reasons people have to surrender their pets and pet owners are in violation of animal ordinances so that root causes and potential solutions can be identified.
• Increase outreach to communities historically underserved and lacking relationships with LHS. Build and strengthen trusted relationships with all members of the community.
• Implement and improve data collection around LHS services and outreach in order to increase the community’s access to LHS and remove barriers to service.
  
  

Organizational Leadership

• Engage and motivate a dedicated staff team, and create opportunities for ongoing learning and professional development.
• Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate three Community Caseworkers, two Field Services Officers, and one LHS Social Worker as needed, ensuring proper policies and procedures are followed consistently. Provide additional training and development; address challenges as needed.
• Work with the LHS Social Worker, Field Services Officers, and Community Caseworkers to develop big picture Pet Resource Center goals and objectives, SOPs, schedules, and budget.
• Work collaboratively with other departments to ensure staff are cross-trained, feel confident supporting one another in their work duties, and understand the ecosystem functioning of LHS.
• Provide narratives, programmatic ideas, and budgets for grants and other funding opportunities.
• In collaboration with department managers and senior management team maintain and evaluate processes and procedures to facilitate the timely flow of animals through LHS.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Three to five years of experience working in the social service and/or social justice nonprofit field; animal welfare experience is a plus.
• A college degree is not required, but is a considered a plus. Sufficient work experience may be substituted for a degree.
• Three to five years of experience in program development, data analysis, and evaluation.
• At least 3 years of experience working with diverse and/or underserved communities.
• Transparent and high integrity leadership and a style that motivates people to work hard while having fun.
• Experience navigating conversations about race, gender, immigration, disability, socioeconomic status, housing, and other issues around privilege and equity.
• Strong organizational abilities including collaborating, planning, delegating, program development and task facilitation.
• Strong written and oral communication skills and appropriate self-confidence and maturity so as to effectively communicate the vision, mission, and work of LHS to all community members, as well as in a manner inspiring to staff, board, donors and volunteers.
• Solid, proven budget management skills including budget preparation, analysis, decision-making and reporting.
• Proven track record of open minded mentality, flexibility, and demonstration of understanding that not all solutions look the same.
• Demonstrated experience in staying calm, empathetic, and kind during challenging, high-tension situations.
• Must be able to complete coursework and pass certification exam for National Animal Control (NACA) ACO Basics I & II Certification within the first quarter of 2022.
• Valid driver’s license and a safe driving record.

COMPETENCIES

• Proven track record of being intentionally inclusive and welcoming, particularly with communities different than one’s self.
• Evident desire to serve both people and pets; demonstrating compassion for animals and people, sometimes in emotionally difficult and complex situations, without judgment.
• Ability to set and meet goals and balance multiple projects, possessing strong time management and organizational skills.
• Effective, experienced, and confident public speaker.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office. Ability to learn how to use new software, platforms, and applications to efficiently and effectively manage information.
• Goal-driven, holding self and others accountable to department and organizational goals, with effective skills at prioritizing and redirecting activities to achieve the desired outcomes.
• Highly developed critical thinking skills and a focus on consistent process improvement.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

An ideal candidate will embody the following characteristics:

• Maturity in articulating personal needs, wants, and perspectives.
• Appreciating and celebrating individuals’ differences.
• Engagement and actively listening when communicating with others so that others feel heard and understood.
• Highly strategic, never losing sight of the big picture.
• Appreciation for collaboration, as well as encouraging others’ ideas and input.
• Understanding that mistakes are opportunities to learn and grow.
• Flexibility when it comes to solving challenges and adaptable so that each approach is most effective and appropriate for a given situation.
• Maintenance of healthy boundaries and a positive work culture.
• Willingness to cross-train and cover for others as needed.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Routine and flexible office environment with the ability to work away from the office and beyond regular work schedules when needed to complete the work.
• Regular contact with upset and emotional individuals, potentially dangerous animals, and deceased animals can occur.
• Work in a stationary position for extended periods of time using a computer.
• Considerable time communicating with the public.
• Exposure to animals and all risks associated with animal contact including bites, scratches, dander, parasites, infectious diseases, strong odors and fumes from caustic chemicals, and animal waste.
• Exposure to high noise levels.
• Traverse the facility and grounds for extended periods of time performing labor that may include walking (with and without animals weighing up to 150 pounds), reaching with hands and arms, climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching and/or crawling, lifting up to 50 pounds without assistance and operating various tools and equipment.
• Occasional exposure to wet, cold, and/or humid conditions if working outdoors.
• Occasional use of company vehicle to perform work in the field, in all weather conditions.
  
  

HOW TO APPLY:
To apply for this position, please send a cover letter and resume to Shannon Wells, Executive Director, swells@lawrencehumane.org. (Please do not use the Apply Today button below.)

The Lawrence Humane Society believes that our organization is strengthened by the diversity of our staff, and welcome such diversity including race, gender identity or expression, educational attainment, disability, veteran status, and personal experiences. The Lawrence Humane Society encourages applications from people of all cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.