Humane Society of Mason County Animal Welfare Officer - Shelton Shelton, WA · Full time

Apply for Animal Welfare Officer - 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 

• Safely retrieve and care for stray animals while prioritizing reuniting lost pets with their families.
• Maintain a safe and clean environment within the shelter; ensure animals receive daily enrichment and species-specific care.
• Coordinate transport and veterinary services to support medical recovery and wellness of shelter pets.
• Respond to community requests for support with stray, injured, or at-risk animals in alignment with our humane protocols.
• Engage in outreach efforts to promote responsible pet ownership, including spay/neuter education, licensing, and microchipping.
• Investigate reports of animal neglect or cruelty, documenting findings and coordinating with legal or rescue partners as needed.
• Provide respectful enforcement of local and state animal welfare guidelines, always seeking voluntary compliance before legal action.
• Keep detailed records of intakes, adoptions, reclaims, and any field activities.
• Collaborate with our communications team to promote adoptable animals and share their stories across various platforms.
• Build relationships with volunteers, foster caregivers, and community members to extend our reach and impact.
• Represent the humane society at local events and serve as a knowledgeable, empathetic resource to the public.
• Travel occasionally to Belfair headquarters for training and/or meetings
• Availability evening and weekend hours for emergency calls
• Perform other duties, as assigned

Interpersonal Skills and Professional Attributes

• Exceptional communication skills with a calm, collaborative demeanor, especially in sensitive or high-pressure situations.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment with minimal supervision, particularly in emotionally charged or urgent circumstances.
• Comfortable using radios, field equipment, and basic tech tools to document work and communicate with the team
• High proficiency in learning new software systems 
• Extensive knowledge and experience handling various types of animals who may be frightened, aggressive or in need of medical care. 
• 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.
• Demonstrate ability to quickly, calmly, and efficiently meet deadlines, juggle multiple and competing priorities, and maintain a positive, engaging atmosphere
• Excellent interpersonal skills; authentic team player and demonstrate de-escalation tactics and resolve conflict 
• Excellent written and oral communication skills

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 rescue in extreme weather along with indoor shelter settings; 
• Must be able to lift 50+ lbs safely.
• Regular driving of company vehicle
• 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

Education and Licenses

• Associate degree or certificate in Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, or a related field; 1–3 years of direct experience in animal care, shelter work, or rescue operations will substitute for degree or certification credentials.
• Certifications from the National Animal Care & Control Association as Animal Control Officer I & II, within timeframe for next certification cycle.
• Level I Professional Animal Cruelty Investigator from National Animal Cruelty Investigations School, within timeframe for next certification cycle.
• Must possess a valid Driver’s license and clean driving record
• Must pass background check

Benefits Include: Health, Dental and Vision with company contribution; Annual clothing/uniform allowance; Professional Development Opportunities; Vacation/Paid Time Off at 1.5 hours earned per 40 hours paid; Sick Leave at 1 hour earned per 40 hours worked; Six Paid holidays per year.

Questions? Please email Stephanie Walsh at [email protected].