Shelter Operations Officer

About the Role

Improve, develop, and coordinate animal welfare policy and implementation among various City Departments, City Council, the Mayor, Bernalillo County, and constituents for the City of Albuquerque, resulting in enhanced welfare of animals. Analyze, monitor, and make recommendations regarding financial and operational aspects of the Animal Welfare Department, including budget development, budget administration, capital programs, and departmental programs. Address problems for the City Administration and constituent complaints about animal-welfare issues. Conduct research to develop proposals for improvements and other initiatives within the Animal Welfare Department and assist in their implementation. Monitor progress in Animal Welfare Department programs and capital projects by independently tracking records and indicators, and make recommendations for program improvement.

Responsibilities

• Develop appropriate animal welfare policy, practices, and initiatives to reduce euthanasia, increase pet adoptions, and ensure the humane treatment of animals in City shelters.
• Monitor Animal Welfare department program success measures, including those in the City’s performance plan, and develop new ones as necessary.
• Develop and implement action plans to address identified policy problems or impediments to implementation in City animal-related matters.
• Review approaches and initiatives for the welfare of domestic animals and wildlife, including animals cared for or housed by the City, and recommend improvements, changes, or substitutions.
• Assist in the development of proposed ordinances, legislation, orders, and rules for local or state action and assist in implementation when appropriate.
• Collaborate with animal advocacy groups and other relevant stakeholders on animal welfare issues.
• Oversee capital improvement, construction projects, and facility maintenance.
• Attend and participate in professional group meetings; stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of animal welfare.
• May respond to and resolve citizen inquiries and complaints.
• Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in public administration, communications, business administration, natural or environmental science.
• Seven (7) years of managerial experience in the sheltering of animals, public affairs, or municipal government. Education and experience may be interchangeable on a year-for-year basis.
• Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License, or the ability to obtain by date of hire.
• Possession of a valid City Operator's Permit (COP) within six (6) months from date of hire.

Working Conditions

Environmental: Office and field environment; travel from site to site; exposure to noise, smoke, and animals; exposure to computer screens.

Physical: Essential and supplemental functions require maintaining physical condition necessary for walking, standing, or sitting for prolonged periods of time; operate a motor vehicle.