ADMISSIONS MANAGER bei The Anti-Cruelty Society

THE ANTI-CRUELTY SOCIETY
JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Admissions Manager
Department: Operations
Reports To: Director of Shelter Services
Status: Exempt

General Summary

Under the direct supervision of the Director of Shelter Services, the Admissions Manager oversees the animal admissions process to ensure the highest standard of care for both animals and people. This role collaborates across departments, supports strategic program development, trains and mentors staff, and remains current with sheltering best practices and industry standards.

Essential Job Functions

• Champion the PETS Work Culture Agreement through Praise, Engagement, Trust, and Support.
• Support the development of professional growth plans for individuals and the department.
• Ensure humane housing and handling of animals in compliance with established standards.
• Partner with the Medical Director and Director of Shelter Services to implement vaccination and preventative care protocols.
• Support the growth and sustainability of the Foster Program through vaccine appointments, drop off appointments, and other means of foster support. 
• Provide daily population management guidance, balancing animal welfare and community needs.
• Implement and maintain effective pathway planning, prioritizing fast-track animals and early illness detection.
• Develop and implement owner retention strategies in collaboration with other departments.
• Oversee daily communication and decision-making related to animal population updates.
• Innovate and streamline the handling of incoming calls, emails, and appointment scheduling.
• Actively promote and facilitate return-to-owner, return-to-field, TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return), and SNR (Shelter-Neuter-Return) outcomes.
• Participate in shelter walks, engage staff, and problem-solve daily operational challenges.
• Continuously evaluate and improve processes, protocols, and efficiency within the department.
• Manage staff scheduling, timecards, and approve time-off requests.
• Participate in hiring, onboarding, and performance management of team members.
• Maintain and review standard operating procedures (SOPs) and participate in annual policy reviews
• Ensure familiarity with ASV Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters and other relevant sources.
• Oversee ordering, stocking, and distribution of department supplies.
• Ensure all employees have access to proper training, tools, and resources.
• Foster strong interdepartmental relationships through collaborative communication.[EK1] [2] 
• Exercise sound judgment in reporting department or personnel concerns.
• Handle employee relations issues; provide coaching, disciplinary action, and performance feedback as needed.
• Track and document employee performance regularly; conduct evaluations.
• Perform humane euthanasia and comply with Illinois law and Society protocols.
• Make euthanasia decisions when necessary, guided by The Anti-Cruelty Society’s Euthanasia Principles.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and functional facility; report maintenance needs promptly.
• Oversee shelter equipment usage and upkeep.
• Assist in the development and implementation of new programs to improve animal care and outcomes.
• Attend all required meetings and complete other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills; passion for working with people and animals.
• Shelter or clinical experience preferred.
• Strong verbal, written, and digital communication skills.
• Ability to lead, develop, and motivate teams.
• Strategic thinking and organizational development capabilities.
• Effective multitasking and time management skills.
• Professional, positive, and collaborative work ethic.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to communicate across diverse audiences and settings.
• Professional appearance and demeanor.
• Must have a sense of caring for animals.

Education Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Must become a Certified Euthanasia Technician within one year of hire.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum 6–12 months of related experience required.
• At least one year of supervisory experience preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in various weather conditions.
• Must be able to work in proximity to animals.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40 lbs.
• Ability to work in an open-office environment.
• Frequent bending, reaching, and stooping required.
• Ability to be comfortable working with cats, dogs, small animals, reptiles, fish and wildlife. 
• Due to nature of shelter work, may be exposed to deceased, fractious, or aggressive animals; hostile or irate persons; zoonotic or other diseases; unpleasant noises, odors, or sights; and extreme temperatures.

Additional Requirements

• Must be flexible to work extended hours including evenings, weekends, holidays, and at satellite locations as needed.
• The job description is a guide to the essential functions of the job, not an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, qualifications, physical demands, and work environment conditions. Job descriptions are reviewed and revised to meet the changing needs of the organization at the sole discretion of management.
• Anti-Cruelty is an equal opportunity employer.