Animal Shelter Assistant-City of Detroit

Job Description

Job Title: Animal Shelter Assistant

Company: City of Detroit

Location: Detroit, MI

Pay: $39565 – 45510 per year

AI Pay Analysis: The annual salary range of $39,565 to $45,510 for the role of “Animal Shelter Assistant” in Detroit, MI translates to an hourly wage of approximately $19.00 to $21.85. This compensation is relatively competitive compared to the industry standards for similar positions in the region, as animal shelter assistants typically earn between $13 and $20 per hour nationwide. Factors such as local cost of living, the specific responsibilities of the role, and the demand for animal care professionals can influence competitiveness. Overall, this range appears to be within a reasonable and competitive market rate for this type of work in Detroit.

Job description:

Under general supervision, the incumbent will perform a variety of administrative, office support, and customer service duties at Detroit Animal Care and Control. This role may involve direct interaction with animals housed at the shelter.

Administrative Duties

• Manage telephone inquiries, record messages, and direct calls to the appropriate staff members as required.
• Support Animal Control Officers by documenting dispatched calls for service and providing the public with updates on complaint resolution as necessary.
• Input data into various software systems, including but not limited to adoption and foster records, licensing, spay/neuter documentation, and other relevant information.
• Prepare and complete necessary reports, maintaining precise records and files.
• Review forms and other documentation to ensure accuracy and compliance with established policies and procedures.

Customer Service

• Welcome the public and assist with matters related to lost and impounded animals, quarantined animals, and processes for adoption, fostering, and licensing.
• Provide information to the community regarding licensing, vaccinations, impoundment, euthanasia, rabies control, pet-owner responsibilities, and spaying/neutering, as well as adoption processes.
• Accept payments and issue receipts for services related to animal quarantine, impoundment, licensing, and other services.
• Aid in receiving animals brought to the shelter and facilitate the release of impounded animals.

Facility Care

• Assist in maintaining a clean, organized, and functional administrative office, including workstations and equipment.
• Collaborate with supervisors to ensure proper operation of equipment and technology, which includes reporting repairs, managing equipment inventories, and evaluating new technology and techniques.
• Restock supplies as necessary and notify management when additional supplies are required.
• Follow organizational policies and guidelines for cleaning, disinfection, and disease control.

Other Duties

• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or General Education Development (G.E.D.) certificate.
• A minimum of one (1) year of experience in an administrative assistant or office support role.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Familiarity with office systems, practices, procedures, and administration.
• Understanding of principles and effective practices for delivering high-quality customer service.
• Knowledge of laws and ordinances related to animal care and control.
• Awareness of different animal types, colors, characteristics, temperaments, and breeds.
• Proficient listening and comprehension skills for understanding both verbal and written information.
• Competence in using personal computers with word processing, spreadsheet, and related software to perform a range of administrative tasks efficiently.
• Ability to foster and maintain professional relationships with colleagues, management, the public, and external organizations.
• Strong oral communication skills for conveying information effectively.
• Capacity for effective interaction with stray and injured animals, the public, veterinarians, and Public Safety personnel.
• Proficient in using computers and learning specialized workplace software.
• Ability to compile written and oral reports of a technical nature.
• Skill in addressing diverse customer service issues with tact, diplomacy, and confidentiality.
• Capacity to remain calm, emotionally stable, and mentally aware in high-pressure situations.
• Competence in managing multiple tasks and prioritizing effectively.
• Ability to recognize behavioral signals in animals that may indicate fear or aggression.

Position Competencies

• Analytical/Assessment Skills: Ability to analyze factors impacting community health—such as equity, income, education, and the environment—using both quantitative and qualitative data.
• Policy Development/Program Planning: Contribute to the implementation of the organization’s strategic plan.
• Communication Skills: Proficient in identifying and addressing the literacy needs of the populations served, and able to communicate effectively both in writing and orally with cultural and linguistic sensitivity.
• Cultural Competency Skills: Understanding of diversity and its impact on individuals and populations, as well as how it influences policies and health services.
• Community Dimensions of Practice Skills: Engage community members to enhance health outcomes and provide input into policies and services.
• Financial Planning and Management Skills: Operate programs within budget constraints and motivate teams towards achieving organizational goals.
• Leadership and Systems Thinking: Offer suggestions for enhancing individual and program performance.

Licenses, Certifications, and Other Special Requirements

• Possession of a valid State of Michigan Driver’s License.
• Candidates may be subject to a criminal background investigation based on position requirements.

Physical Demands
The role may involve prolonged periods at a keyboard or workstation, and the employee must occasionally lift up to 40 pounds independently, manage aggressive animals, and maintain physical activity through sitting, standing, and walking.

Work Environment
This position is primarily located in an animal shelter, exposing the incumbent to domesticated animals that may have health or temperament issues, potential for biting and scratching, high noise levels, zoonotic diseases, and cleaning agents. Employees are required to be on call during any designated emergency that necessitates services to the citizens of Detroit or broader regions.

Supplemental Information
The evaluation plan for candidates includes a computerized assessment (35%), interviews (35%), and evaluation of training, experience, and personal qualifications (30%), totaling 100%. Additional points may be awarded for veteran status (0 – 15 points) and Detroit residency (15 points).

Employment Benefits
The City of Detroit offers a competitive benefits package, which includes health, dental, and vision insurance, optional life insurance, and long-term disability coverage. Additional offerings include paid sick leave, vacation, holidays, and other leave benefits, along with retirement benefits through the City Employees Retirement System and opportunities for career advancement across various departments.

Join us at the City of Detroit and be part of a dedicated team committed to delivering outstanding services to the community.

Job Posting Date: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 03:02:48 GMT

Apply now!