Humane Society of Mason County Animal Care Manager - Shelton Shelton, WA · Full time

Apply for Animal Care Manager - Shelton

The Humane Society of Mason County (HSMC) is a non-profit organization providing assistance and care to displaced or abused animals including control of pet and feral population. Additionally, the organization is working to provide an animal shelter for unwanted companion animals. History: The Humane Society of Mason County was founded in 1986 by a group of dedicated volunteers, many animals have been fostered over the years. Starting in December 2004, in response to community need and spearheaded by a local veterinarian, efforts to revitalize the organization began. We have many local supporters, a volunteer network and a strong plan for the future of HSMC.​ In 2022 HSMC hired their first two employees, a veterinarian and a licensed veterinary technician and began performing low cost affordable spay and neuter services to the public. Today: HSMC manages a small facility in Belfair, offering low cost veterinary services and performing over 75 spay and neuter surgeries weekly! HSMC's facility also offers a pet food pantry and resource center for pet owners and community members. HSMC also has an extensive foster program housing over 100 animals in care at any given time, dedicated to providing medical care and finding forever homes. Tomorrow: HSMC owns 5 acres of property in Belfair with plans to build a shelter that will benefit the community for years to come. Stage one, two and three have been completed with the installation of a well, power poles and clearing and fencing of the property. HSMC also conducted a needs assesment study for the building's future size and capitacy. Our next stage is to start construction on the building.

Essential Job Functions 

• Lead and coach staff and volunteers in best practices, emotional intelligence, and accountability
• Develop clear goals, workflows, and team culture that supports collaboration and respect
• Oversee intake, health protocols, behavior assessments, and housing for all shelter animals
• Coordinate veterinary care, vaccination schedules, and special needs plans for animals in care
• Uphold hygiene, safety, and ethical standards in all areas of shelter care
• Manage the adoption program, ensuring matching is thoughtful and humane
• Lead outreach initiatives, foster recruitment, and pet retention efforts
• Serve as a public ambassador, representing the shelter with transparency and empathy
• Prepare operational reports, track key metrics, and manage inventory
• Ensure compliance with state and county regulations, grant reporting, and safety protocols
• Collaborate with executive leadership on budget planning and funding strategies
• Perform other duties, as assigned

Education and Licenses

• 1–3 years of direct experience in animal care, shelter work, or rescue operations.
• Must possess a valid Driver’s license and clean driving record
• Ability to pass the medical clerks testing requirements per Washington state. 
• Experience leading small teams

Interpersonal Skills and Professional Attributes

• Proven experience in animal welfare, veterinary services, or shelter management
• Strong leadership capabilities with focus on emotional intelligence and adaptability
• Excellent organizational, communication, and decision-making skills
• Knowledge of Washington State animal care standards and nonprofit operations
• Proficiency with shelter management software (e.g., Clinichq, Shelterluv) is a plus
• Must be comfortable administering injections and medications. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast - paced environment. 
• Compassionate and empathetic approach to working with animals and people. 
• Ability to meet deadlines, juggle multiple and competing priorities, and maintain a positive, engaging atmosphere
• Ability to quickly, calmly, and efficiently adjust to changes in direction and re-prioritize work
• Extensive knowledge and experience on handling various types of animals who may be frightened, aggressive or in need of medical care. 
• Experience with conflict resolution
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills; authentic team player

Company Mission and Workplace Core Values 

All employees of HSMC are expected to embrace the organizational mission of providing a second chance for companion animals. In addition, adhering and contributing positively to our team core values is required. These values embody: Team over ego, solutions over blame, psychological safety, progress not perfection, and a “compassion first” approach.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.

• Physical capacity to work in varied environments, including active outdoor activities along with indoor shelter settings; 
• Must be able to lift 50+ lbs safely.
• The role involves exposure to animal odors, noises, and behaviors typical of an animal care facility, as well as interaction with animals at various stages of health and recovery.
• Communicating with others to exchange information
• Physical ability to perform cleaning tasks, including lifting up to 25 pounds.
• Bend and kneel repeatedly
• Repetitive motions that include the wrists, hands and/or fingers

Benefits include Health, Dental and Vision Insurance with Company Contribution, Annual clothing/uniform allowance, Professional Development Opportunities, Vacation/Paid Time Off accrual of 1.5 hours earned per 40 hours paid (increases over time), Sick Leave at 1 hour earned per 40 hours paid, 6 Paid Holidays per year, Bereavement Leave and more.

For questions about this position, please contact [email protected]