Adoption Counselor

JOB DESCRIPTION

Adoption Counselor

Position: Adoption Counselor

Reports to: Adoption Supervisor

Organization

Formed in 1952, The Austin Humane Society is Austin’s largest, longest standing, no kill, non-profit animal shelter. AHS is dedicated to eliminating unnecessary euthanasia of dogs and cats through:

• Innovative life-saving adoption programs
• High-volume spay and neuter programs
• Engaging the community to be part of the solution
• Serving animals and people in times of crisis

Position Description

Adoption Counselors are responsible for the placement of animals into appropriate homes using fair and impartial matching techniques in order to maximize the number of lives saved through adoption while provided exemplary customer service to all who interact with the Austin Humane Society.

Responsibilities

Customer Service

Adoption counselors are responsible for ensuring an exemplary customer experience for all who interact with the Austin Humane Society in any capacity. This includes, but is not limited to: properly counseling adopters through the adoption process, providing ongoing interaction and follow-up to adopters and interested adopters, maintaining the aesthetics and appearance of the adoption center, and assisting those who enter the shelter with their needs. Adoption counselors are also responsible for maintaining relationships with off-site adoption venues and their staff. Counselors delicately handle difficult customer service situations with the help of an AHS supervisor.

Adoption of Animals

Adoption counselors are responsible for the adoption of animals both on-site and at off-site adoption locations and events. Counselors ensure that animals are placed into quality homes in which they will receive humane care and treatment based on their individual needs. Adoption counselors are responsible for post-adoption follow-up and assisting potential adopters with questions regarding animals available for adoption. Counselors are also responsible for the safe handling of animals when facilitating visits with potential adopters.

Animal Care, Cleaning and Sanitation

Adoption Counselors are responsible for the daily cleaning and feeding of animals in the shelter and for the ongoing maintenance of animals in the adoption area. Counselors are also responsible for maintaining a clean and sanitary adoption lobby. Adoption Counselors are responsible for ensuring that animals are in their proper location and for the reporting of any behavioral or medical issues to the appropriate staff promptly.

Data Entry and Record Keeping

Adoption Counselors are responsible for maintaining quality data and files; including but not limited to: the timely and accurate entry of data into the Petpoint system, entry of information into individual animal files, and maintaining balanced daily deposits for the adoption department.

Transport

Adoption Counselors are responsible for the transport of animals for off-site events and to off-site adoption locations as needed.

Communication/Training

Adoption Counselors are responsible for completing required trainings related to their job as well as participate in cross-training opportunities in other departments of the shelter. Counselors are required to meet with their supervisor on a regular basis as well as participate in weekly departmental meetings and monthly all-staff meetings.

Other Duties as Assigned

Qualifications

Candidates for this position must have two years of customer service experience in a fast-paced environment. Ideal candidates will also have experience with animal handling and/or veterinary medical experience. Candidates must have exemplary customer service skills and a strong attention to detail.

Physical and Mental Requirements/Work Environment:

These are physical and mental requirements of the position as it is typically performed. Inability to meet one or more of these physical or mental requirements will not automatically disqualify a candidate or employee from the position. Upon request for a reasonable accommodation, the Austin Humane Society may be able to adjust or excuse one or more of these requirements, depending on the requirement, the essential functions to which it relates, and the proposed accommodation.

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of this position.