The Intake Specialist performs a variety of animal intake and evaluation duties in support of AAWL’s lifesaving mission. This position supports the movement of animals through the organization by conducting behavioral and medical evaluations, scheduling appointments with pet families, and coordinating with internal teams and rescue partners. The Intake Specialist serves as a compassionate representative of AAWL when communicating with individuals in challenging situations, including families seeking to surrender their pets. This position gathers relevant behavioral and medical history and provides resources and guidance to help keep pets in their homes when appropriate. Responsibilities include conducting field and in-office behavioral and medical assessments; safely transporting animals; documenting evaluation findings; and preparing animals for adoption through basic medical procedures such as blood draws, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, deworming, and microchipping. Intake Specialists are expected to exercise sound judgment and follow organizational guidelines while maintaining a calm and compassionate approach when working with both animals and people.
Intake Specialists must be able to safely work in environments with dogs and cats, including potential exposure to animal allergens. This position requires a varied schedule, including weekends and holidays, with shifts as early as 5:30 a.m. and as late as 7:00 p.m. Full-time hours are 30–40 hours per week.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Travel to partner organizations to evaluate and select animals and safely transport them back to AAWL.
- Communicate respectfully and compassionately with families surrendering pets and provide resources to support pet retention when appropriate.
- Conduct field and in-office behavioral and medical assessments of animals and accurately document findings.
- Perform basic medical procedures, including drawing blood, administering vaccinations, flea and tick preventatives, dewormers, and microchips.
- Accurately enter animal information into PetPoint and assist with scheduling exams, surgeries, and follow-up appointments.
- Participate in behavior assessments for animals being prepared for adoption.
- Collaborate with volunteers assisting with intake and behavior assessments in a welcoming and supportive manner.
- Coordinate with internal teams and rescue partners to support the smooth intake and movement of animals through the organization.
- Exercise sound judgment while maintaining calm, compassionate handling of animals and people.
- Follow established safety procedures and organizational guidelines when handling animals, interacting with the public, and performing medical procedures.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
- One year of work experience is required.
- Experience working with animals other than your own is preferred.
- Bilingual Spanish-speaking skills are a plus but not required.
- No degree requirement.
- Must be at least 21 years of age and have a clean driving record.
- Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and perform duties requiring lifting, bending, kneeling, and stooping throughout a shift.
- Must be able to safely and calmly work with and handle dogs and cats following appropriate training.
- Training for vaccinations and blood draws will be provided within 30 days of hire if the employee is not already trained.
- Must be able to read, write, and accurately document information in English.
- Basic computer knowledge, including Microsoft Office, Excel, and data entry skills.
- Ability to adapt to change and accept new responsibilities within a growing organization.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse individuals within the organization and the broader community.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment, follow established procedures, and remain calm in challenging situations challenging situations.
DISCLAIMER
Employees are regularly in contact with animals who may be unpredictable. Although all employees are covered under AAWL’s workers’ compensation policy, accepting this position acknowledges that there are inherent risks associated with animal encounters. The ability to exercise sound judgment, follow established procedures, and prioritize safety is essential to the well-being of both the animals and the employee.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
- Pay starts at $17 per hour.
- Generous PTO, sick leave, and 12 paid holidays annually.
- 100% employer-paid medical and life insurance; dental, vision, and supplemental options available.
- Employer-supported professional development.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP).