Animal Care Assistant

Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh (HARP), one of the largest animal welfare organizations in Pennsylvania, is seeking an energetic and engaged Animal Care Assistant to join our growing team! The ideal candidate will share our vision and passion for the humane and ethical treatment of animals within the community.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Uphold the mission of Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh throughout all responsibilities of the position.
• Understand and support the Open Door Philosophy of Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh.
• Actively engage in and work as a team with HARP employees and volunteers.
• Maintain positive relationships with co-workers, managers, directors, clients, and stakeholders.
• Assist Animal Care Technicians with duties as assigned, duties may include:
  • Wash and sanitize dishes daily.
  • Wash, dry, and fold laundry daily.
  • Sort and put away donations and deliveries
  • Clean kennels and maintain environment for all shelter animals according to procedures described in the Animal Care manual and as instructed by Animal Care Manager and Director of Shelter Programs.
  • Assisting with behavioral protocols set by the Behavior Department with interacting with shelter animals.
  • Spot-cleaning animal kennels throughout the day ensuring that the cages remain as clean as possible.
  • Assist with feeding schedules, including special diets prescribed by the Veterinary team.
  • Utilize Fear Free techniques when handling any animal in our care.
  • Assist in moving dogs and cats to designated areas within the building.
  • Ensure the integrity, accuracy, and completeness of the daily monitoring sheets in addition to recording relevant information into the animals digital record.
  • Ensure all holding and adoption areas are maintained in a clean, sanitary, and comfortable manner reporting issues to the manager immediately.
  • Perform other tasks as requested by the Animal Care Team or the Director of Shelter Programs.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to bend, stand, stoop, walk, sit, talk, listen, hear; use hands to manipulate, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The role routinely requires handling of animals in varying degrees of behavior and requires keen observational skills, as well as dexterity with a leash and other training equipment used with both cats and dogs.

TRAVEL

• None

• Must be able to work all shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Passion for animals and animal welfare.
• Previous animal handling experience a plus.
• Be able to handle the physical demands of the job to accomplish requirements of the job.
• Ability to stay focused on the priorities of the job; strong time management skills with the ability to handle numerous responsibilities at once and work well under pressure.
• Must be physically capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs. at a time
• Must be able to stand for 2-4 hours.
• Must be physically capable of walking and handling animals of various sizes.
• Basic computer/keyboarding skills and experience with Microsoft Office and web browsers.
• Must have reliable transportation.