Equine and Farm Animal Care Manager
Primary Responsibilities:
Reporting to the Senior Veterinary Hospital Director, the Equine and Farm Animal Care Manager is responsible the operations of our Farm and Equine Animal Department, which consists of daily care, rehabilitation, medical monitoring, training, and ultimately adoptions of various farm animals in our care.
Essential Functions of the Position:
- Responsible for all essential functions of the Farm and Equine Animal Department.
- Hire, train and schedule employees to meet shelter needs.
- Instruct, train, and assist staff with their duties, use of equipment, and materials in assigned areas.
- Assist in overseeing daily shelter operations, including, but no limited to adoptions, admissions, call center and the general care of animals.
- Quality control of all procedures and areas. Keep all areas clean and safe.
- Follow all safety protocols for department, staff, and volunteers.
- Available to answers questions from staff and correct any policy and/or procedure violations.
- Report observed health or behavior issues to the appropriate individual for treatment.
- Assist staff with initial customer questions and/or issues in a timely manner.
- Responsible for managing accurate information regarding customers and animals into the database.
- Update Senior Veterinary Hospital Director on areas of interest and/or concern.
- Provide information to the public about Houston SPCA programs and promoting good animal care and responsible pet ownership.
- Advise potential adopters of Houston SPCA adoption benefits, policies, and procedures.
- Protect all confidential information, including customers, donors, animals, animal investigative cases, employees, and internal communications.
- Represent Houston SPCA by providing excellent customer service and focus.
- Perform additional tasks as assigned.
Knowledge, Skill, and Abilities Needed to Perform the Essential Functions of this Position:
- College degree in Animal, Agriculture, or similar area. Five to ten years of equine/shelter experience, including previous team management experience.
- Working knowledge of breeds, diseases, medical conditions, and animal handling and behavior for horses and other farm animals.
- Able to safely train and ride horses. Working knowledge of tacks and related equipment.
- Ability to manage animals safely, with patience and gentleness.
- Follow the mission of the Houston SPCA. Positive customer and public relations skills.
- Thorough knowledge of Houston SPCA adoption policies and procedures.
- Knowledge of Houston SPCA partners and products/services they offer.
- Knowledge of the Houston SPCA policies and protocols, such as, but not limited to admitting, cleaning and medical protocols.
- Ability to represent the Houston SPCA in a professional manner in all situations with the public, volunteers, and staff.
- Ability to create and sustain positive working relationships within Houston SPCA, including with staff, other departments, volunteers, and the public. Strong collaborator.
- Must be patient, courteous and work well under stressful conditions.
- Knowledge and ability to accurately work with detailed information in paper and electronic form.
- Ability to read, write and communicate effectively.
- Ability to learn and quickly adapt to changes in programs and procedures.
- Valid Texas Driver’s License with a safe driving record is required.
- Ability to safely maneuver and drive a truck with horse trailer.
- Ability to work unscheduled and flexible hours, including weekends, after hours, and during storm/disaster responses.
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. Ability to work in various weather conditions and around various animals.
