Admissions Counselor
About the Role
ACC is one of the nation’s largest open-admission animal shelters, whose mission is to End Animal Homelessness in NYC. We touch the lives of nearly 20,000 animals each year. ACC is more than an animal shelter; we are a resource to the community, always seeking ways to keep the human-animal bond intact. With a 90% placement rate, our progressive, life-saving initiatives contribute to the successful placement of our animals. We strive to find loving homes for homeless and abandoned cats, dogs, guinea pigs and rabbits, both by adopting animals directly to the public and by partnering with more than 200 dedicated animal placement organizations (our New Hope partners). We also help keep NYC communities safe and rescue animals in need, responding to emergencies that involve animals as well as keeping our doors open 24/7 for people and animals in need.
The Admissions Counselor is a key member of the ACC team, ensuring that animals entering our centers are set up for the best possible outcomes from the very first interaction. By providing safe, supportive environments free of judgment, the Admissions Counselor allows owners and finders of animals to seek assistance without fear or embarrassment. The Admissions Counselor spends time with each client working to understand the true nature of the situation and provides appropriate resources ranging from surrender prevention options, alternatives to shelter relinquishment, and acceptance of the animal into our programs. ACC never turns away an animal, but we do seek to work collaboratively with each client to ensure their animal has the best opportunities provided to them. For animals entering the centers, the Admissions Counselor helps determine placement pathways by documenting key information about the animal’s history, known behavior, and habits. They take great, flattering photos of each pet, and communicate with a variety of departments to ensure everyone has what they need to help our animals succeed.
At ACC it's all hands-on deck. We work together as a team, which means you may be asked to help with tasks that involve working outside in all sorts of weather. As a busy animal shelter in one of the biggest cities in the world it can get noisy inside. Employees should have the ability to remain calm yet professional in stressful situations involving animals and/or members of the public. Animal Care Centers houses hundreds of animals in its facilities at any given time and with that comes fur, odors and other airborne particles in abundance. ACC offers many low-cost services to pets and people in need. This includes compassionate end-of-life services for people who cannot afford to go to a private veterinary office but still want to provide a professional and peaceful transition for their beloved pet.
Reports to: Admissions Supervisor. This is a non-union position eligible for overtime.
Schedule
Friday – Tuesday, 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM; Wednesday and Thursday off.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or equivalent
- At least 1 year of customer service experience
- Positive, compassionate attitude and good computer skills
- Treats animals and people with respect, viewing individuals as collaborators
- Capable of maintaining discretion and confidentiality
- Competent in clearly documenting conversations and interactions
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for 8+ hours
- Bilingual Skills (Spanish) required