Kennel Manager

Job Description

Job DescriptionK9s For Warriors is the nation’s largest provider of service dogs to veterans suffering from the invisible wounds of war, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Our unique, in-house program helps change the lives of American heroes by pairing them with a battle buddy, who was likely a rescue dog and then teaching him or her to utilize that dog to mitigate the symptoms of their wounds. In order to continue the great work we are doing, we are in need of a Kennel Manager to join our amazing team!

Basic Function

Under the general direction and supervision of the Director of K9 Support Operations, the Kennel Manager is responsible for the oversight and management of daily kennel operations and providing support to kennel operations at other K9s For Warriors’ (K9s) locations. The Kennel Manager will primarily provide leadership and direction at the Shari Duval National Headquarters and Mega Kennel Campus and be responsible for managing kennel staff, enrichment, and facilities in collaboration with and supported by relevant departments.

Essential Functions and Duties

• Hire, train, schedule, approve timecards, conduct performance reviews, and supervise all employees on the Kennel team with the support of Human Resources
• Create, adapt, and update Standard Operating Procedures for the Kennel Department consistent with current best practices, ensuring uniformity of kennel processes
• Ensure accuracy and compliance with safety procedures for all aspects of the kennels, with special emphasis on disaster and fire preparedness and animal handling
• Ensure a culture where effective teamwork, collaboration and innovation are expected, recognized and rewarded, and lead by example regarding cross-functional organizational cooperation and clear standards of conduct
• Schedule, delegate, participate, and oversee completion of kennel tasks, including but not limited to daily deep cleaning, food preparation, etc.
• Be available to kennel staff after hours to provide direction and guidance for any issues or emergency situations within the kennels
• Observe, assess, and ensure all canine behavior and health concerns are handled according to K9s For Warriors policies and procedures
• Always handle canines humanely and safely, and ensure all staff and volunteers do the same
• Oversee and maintain accurate daily kennel records including but not limited to bathing lists, kennel cards, and updating the Master Kennel Locator
• Fill in and provide hands on assistance to kennel staff as needed
• Communicate with Kennel, Procurement, Medical, and Training teams to prepare for new canine arrivals into the program, update canine numbers and movements, medical issues, process changes, and kennel issues or contractor work
• Oversee maintenance of kennels and yards to ensure all areas are functioning properly and communicate any issues with Operations department and Operations Manager
• Oversee the ordering, maintaining, and organization/inventory of kennel supplies and food
• Lead department meetings regarding kennel operations as needed
• Ability to work with dogs on unknown or outdated vaccination history
• Follow and adhere to all PPE policies
• Follow and promote all K9s For Warriors policies and procedures
• Provide a positive example regarding work ethic, attitude, professional ethics, knowledge of policies/procedures, interpersonal interactions, and mutual respect
• Provide exceptional, courteous, and compassionate customer service to the public, volunteers, and other staff members at all times
• Must be able to work independently with little or no supervision

Other Duties

• Perform any other duties as assigned by the Director of K9 Support Operations
• Work collaboratively, and with a positive attitude, with all K9s For Warriors department teams for the care, benefit, promotion, and ultimate outcome for animals in our care

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; bachelor’s degree preferred
• 2-3 years of management or supervisory experience required
• Kennel, rescue, or shelter experience preferred
• Ability to work independently with little to no supervision
• Ability to multi-task items of importance based on demands
• Skilled with various computer software programs
• Valid driver’s license is required and meet standards to be added to company driving policy

Physical Demands

Ability to exert a moderate to extensive amount of physical effort, including stooping, crouching, twisting, turning, walking stairs, climbing, and lifting up to fifty (50) pounds individually. Exposure to unpleasant odors or sounds. Exposure to chemicals, loud noises, and inclement weather.

Core Competencies

• Attention to Detail
• Conflict Management
• Managing
• Planning and Organizing
• Initiative
• Integrity
• Communication

M-F Flexible with weekends and holidays