Shelter Manager Jobs
Shelter manager jobs are open across animal welfare organizations, emergency housing nonprofits, and municipal agencies, from entry-level coordinator roles to senior director positions, with specializations in animal care, residential programs, and crisis services. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 103+ Shelter Manager jobs
Non-Exempt role - Starting Wage: $31.00/hour
BENEFITS:
- Health, dental, vision and more, with employer contribution
- 3 weeks paid time off + 10 paid holidays
- 403(b) with 2% employer match
- Pet care reimbursement
- Discounted adoptions, pet food, and select veterinary services
- Check out our full list of benefits and perks HERE
Position Summary:
The Shelter Care Team is the program that is responsible for all animal care in the shelter building for all nine species of animal housed (dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters, gerbils, rats, and mice). The program is responsible for the direct care of the animals and to meet their individual needs. To accomplish these duties, Shelter Care is comprised of a team of compassionate and skilled staff and volunteers. The Manager is the direct supervisor of the Shelter Care Supervisors and the Animal Care Associates (unionized team). This position works closely with all team and department leaders to support the mission, goals, and long-term plans of Seattle Humane. This position also requires a high level of communication skills and empathy. The Shelter Care Manager role focuses on program advancement and guiding their direct reports in their duties but may provide some support for unexpected staff shortages as needed. They will also spend time participating in operations management leadership decisions and discussions.
KEY OR ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Manages population of animals in the shelter and provides high-quality individualized care in accordance with the Five Domains of Animal Welfare.
- Manages flow of animals through physical housing spaces based on medical needs, behavior needs, and adoption availability.
- Maintains and creates cleaning, feeding, and basic care processes with a focus on biosecurity and disease prevention.
- Oversees the Shelter Care Supervisors and conduct annual performance reviews and quarterly check-ins
- Works in conjunction with Shelter Care Supervisors to draft and delivers performance evaluations, quarterly check-ins, and disciplinary action for Animal Care Associates as outlined by the collective bargaining agreement.
- Communicates with union representatives as needed.
- Works with Shelter Care Supervisors and Senior Leadership to implement changes to Shelter Care operations.
- Partner with Volunteer Services to manage volunteers supporting shelter care.
- Advances team goals by focusing on strategic recruitment, retention, and skill specialization of staff where appropriate.
- Reviews and address safety concerns brough forward by Animal Care Associates and volunteers.
- Plans, schedules, and runs team meetings.
- Creates and updates training plans, materials, and schedules trainings.
- Collaborates with supervisors to create team schedules, manage time off requests, and approve timecards.
- Prepares monthly reports and/or other data requested by Senior Leadership.
- Actively participates in project, group, and management meetings.
- In collaboration with Senior Operation Manager, creates and updates Standard Operating Procedures and process documents as needed.
- Capable of completing all key supervisor and associate tasks and functions.
Secondary Functions:
- Maintains appropriate files and records. Adheres to the files and records retention policy and procedures.
- Provides Manager on Duty coverage.
- Supports other staff teams as needed.
- Works with Senior Operation Manager to submit division budget requests; participates in annual budget conversations and planning.
- Other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:
- Staff: Direct supervision of Shelter Care Supervisors. Indirect supervision of Animal Care Associates.
- Volunteers: Indirect supervision of all shelter care volunteer positions.
COMMUNICATION/INTERPERSONAL CONTACT:
- Daily close collaboration and communication with staff from Shelter Care, Foster Care, Behavior, Veterinary Services, Admissions, Adoptions, and Marketing.
- Daily communication with all other staff teams regarding animal flow and planning.
- Daily communication with Director, Supervisors, and Animal Care Associates.
- Regular individual check-in conversations with direct reports.
- Regular written and verbal communication with the Senior Leadership Team and other management team members.
- Represents Seattle Humane in a professional manner.
- Commits to valuing diversity and contributes to an inclusive working environment that is sensitive to other opinions, culture, and perspectives.
COMPLEXITY:
Management roles require balancing organizational needs with team capacity. Needs to show good analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills. Supervisory roles include coaching and feedback based on the individual’s needs and style. A high degree of independent judgment is required. The nature of the job will vary. Must be able to supervise and coordinate staff and volunteers and remain focused on the agency goals and objectives. A strong attention to detail and the ability to respond to unexpected questions, comments or requests from other divisions or the public is required. Must be able to maintain concentration on a task or series of tasks while dealing with frequent interruptions. Must be able to train new staff and adjust plans as appropriate based on the individual. Must be able to work well without direct supervision. The ability to motivate, negotiate and mediate is important when handling a variety of personalities and emotions. A manager who is open to learning new management methods and skills as well curiosity about changes and progress in the industry is desired.
KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION OR TRAINING:
- At least 4 years of employment in an animal shelter setting is required.
- At least 2 years in a managerial or supervisory role.
- Must have excellent oral communication skills.
- Must be able to write clearly and listen effectively.
- Must possess the organizational and planning skills to determine work priorities and schedules.
- Must have experience working with volunteers.
- Must have experience supervising staff.
- Experience managing a budget preferred.
- Basic knowledge of animal health, behavior, and nutrition.
- Basic knowledge of MS Office Suite, internet use and e-mail; experience with databases and data entry helpful.
- Bilingual is a plus.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
- High school graduate or GED.
- Must be capable of being certified in human CPR/first aid as well as mental health first aid.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Communicates clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
- Comfortable administering medications and injections
- Can solve problems and make clear decisions quickly
- Has good attention to detail
- Produces accurate work despite frequent interruptions
- Organizes and manages multiple and complex projects
- Focuses on strategic goals and objectives and how the impact daily work
- Is sensitive to other opinions, perspectives, or cultures
- Offers excellent customer service (internal and external)
- Can have difficult conversations with staff and volunteers regarding placement and euthanasia in a sensitive manner
- Comfortable in dealing with angry, confused, distraught and/or irrational people
- Exhibits initiative and motivation in performing all duties
- With or without accommodation has good senses of hearing, vision, and smell (to distinguish between various odors)
- With or without accommodation stands for long periods of time and walks quickly
- With or without accommodation can see clearly with a least one eye and have good dexterity and reflexes especially when restraining or moving an animal
- May lift and carry at least 50 pounds with or without accommodation; crouch and bend at the waist and kneel; must be able to control dogs up to 200 pounds when on a leash
WORKING CONDITIONS:
General office and animal shelter environment. When handling animals, there is a potential of animal bites, exposure to zoonotic diseases, animal dander and noise. Potential for working with angry or irate customers. Involves entering and leaving work areas alone before sunrise and after sunset.
- Equipment Use: Personal computer and printer, applicable software, office supplies, multi-lined telephone, copier, safety boots, hearing protection, eye protection, respirators, gloves, animal leashes, clothes washer and dryer, broom, mop, hoses and nozzle, sprayers, scrapers, squeegees and animal dryers.
- Chemical Interaction: A wide variety of cleaners, disinfectants, detergents, and medical products are used daily. Each position at SH will likely encounter these chemicals during the routine performance of their duties. A staff member will provide specific instructions for the safe and proper use of these chemicals. If there are any questions regarding this information, copies of our chemical MSDS sheets are available for review. If asked to use a product that is unfamiliar, contact your supervisor for proper instructions.
- Work Hours: Full-time non-exempt position. 40 hours per week scheduled, five days a week. Schedule may vary depending on coverage by other department staff, holidays, or emergencies. Must be available evening and/or weekend hours, as well as for emergency calls.
LOCATION:
The position works onsite in the Bellevue, WA campus.
SEATTLE HUMANE CORE VALUES
- Candidate should be committed to Seattle Humane’s Core Values
Collaboration - Compassion
- Accessibility
- Respect
- Adaptability
Who we are:
Seattle Humane is more than a shelter; we’re a community resource center. We're meeting the increasing need for pet owner support services so that families don't have to choose between an overdue bill and a beloved family member. We're training the next generation of veterinarians in our state-of-the-art medical center. We're building a community of animal advocates through our volunteer and youth education programs. The impact of Seattle Humane is life-changing, for the animals in our care and the people who love them. Our top priority is to connect animals in need of rescue with the people who will love them. Through our outreach, advocacy and services, we strive to ensure that animal companionship is accessible to all.
Equal Opportunity
As an equal opportunity employer, Seattle Humane is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.
Non-Exempt role - Starting Wage: $31.00/hour
BENEFITS:
- Health, dental, vision and more, with employer contribution
- 3 weeks paid time off + 10 paid holidays
- 403(b) with 2% employer match
- Pet care reimbursement
- Discounted adoptions, pet food, and select veterinary services
- Check out our full list of benefits and perks HERE
Position Summary:
The Shelter Care Team is the program that is responsible for all animal care in the shelter building for all nine species of animal housed (dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters, gerbils, rats, and mice). The program is responsible for the direct care of the animals and to meet their individual needs. To accomplish these duties, Shelter Care is comprised of a team of compassionate and skilled staff and volunteers. The Manager is the direct supervisor of the Shelter Care Supervisors and the Animal Care Associates (unionized team). This position works closely with all team and department leaders to support the mission, goals, and long-term plans of Seattle Humane. This position also requires a high level of communication skills and empathy. The Shelter Care Manager role focuses on program advancement and guiding their direct reports in their duties but may provide some support for unexpected staff shortages as needed. They will also spend time participating in operations management leadership decisions and discussions.
KEY OR ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Manages population of animals in the shelter and provides high-quality individualized care in accordance with the Five Domains of Animal Welfare.
- Manages flow of animals through physical housing spaces based on medical needs, behavior needs, and adoption availability.
- Maintains and creates cleaning, feeding, and basic care processes with a focus on biosecurity and disease prevention.
- Oversees the Shelter Care Supervisors and conduct annual performance reviews and quarterly check-ins
- Works in conjunction with Shelter Care Supervisors to draft and delivers performance evaluations, quarterly check-ins, and disciplinary action for Animal Care Associates as outlined by the collective bargaining agreement.
- Communicates with union representatives as needed.
- Works with Shelter Care Supervisors and Senior Leadership to implement changes to Shelter Care operations.
- Partner with Volunteer Services to manage volunteers supporting shelter care.
- Advances team goals by focusing on strategic recruitment, retention, and skill specialization of staff where appropriate.
- Reviews and address safety concerns brough forward by Animal Care Associates and volunteers.
- Plans, schedules, and runs team meetings.
- Creates and updates training plans, materials, and schedules trainings.
- Collaborates with supervisors to create team schedules, manage time off requests, and approve timecards.
- Prepares monthly reports and/or other data requested by Senior Leadership.
- Actively participates in project, group, and management meetings.
- In collaboration with Senior Operation Manager, creates and updates Standard Operating Procedures and process documents as needed.
- Capable of completing all key supervisor and associate tasks and functions.
Secondary Functions:
- Maintains appropriate files and records. Adheres to the files and records retention policy and procedures.
- Provides Manager on Duty coverage.
- Supports other staff teams as needed.
- Works with Senior Operation Manager to submit division budget requests; participates in annual budget conversations and planning.
- Other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:
- Staff: Direct supervision of Shelter Care Supervisors. Indirect supervision of Animal Care Associates.
- Volunteers: Indirect supervision of all shelter care volunteer positions.
COMMUNICATION/INTERPERSONAL CONTACT:
- Daily close collaboration and communication with staff from Shelter Care, Foster Care, Behavior, Veterinary Services, Admissions, Adoptions, and Marketing.
- Daily communication with all other staff teams regarding animal flow and planning.
- Daily communication with Director, Supervisors, and Animal Care Associates.
- Regular individual check-in conversations with direct reports.
- Regular written and verbal communication with the Senior Leadership Team and other management team members.
- Represents Seattle Humane in a professional manner.
- Commits to valuing diversity and contributes to an inclusive working environment that is sensitive to other opinions, culture, and perspectives.
COMPLEXITY:
Management roles require balancing organizational needs with team capacity. Needs to show good analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills. Supervisory roles include coaching and feedback based on the individual’s needs and style. A high degree of independent judgment is required. The nature of the job will vary. Must be able to supervise and coordinate staff and volunteers and remain focused on the agency goals and objectives. A strong attention to detail and the ability to respond to unexpected questions, comments or requests from other divisions or the public is required. Must be able to maintain concentration on a task or series of tasks while dealing with frequent interruptions. Must be able to train new staff and adjust plans as appropriate based on the individual. Must be able to work well without direct supervision. The ability to motivate, negotiate and mediate is important when handling a variety of personalities and emotions. A manager who is open to learning new management methods and skills as well curiosity about changes and progress in the industry is desired.
KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION OR TRAINING:
- At least 4 years of employment in an animal shelter setting is required.
- At least 2 years in a managerial or supervisory role.
- Must have excellent oral communication skills.
- Must be able to write clearly and listen effectively.
- Must possess the organizational and planning skills to determine work priorities and schedules.
- Must have experience working with volunteers.
- Must have experience supervising staff.
- Experience managing a budget preferred.
- Basic knowledge of animal health, behavior, and nutrition.
- Basic knowledge of MS Office Suite, internet use and e-mail; experience with databases and data entry helpful.
- Bilingual is a plus.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
- High school graduate or GED.
- Must be capable of being certified in human CPR/first aid as well as mental health first aid.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Communicates clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
- Comfortable administering medications and injections
- Can solve problems and make clear decisions quickly
- Has good attention to detail
- Produces accurate work despite frequent interruptions
- Organizes and manages multiple and complex projects
- Focuses on strategic goals and objectives and how the impact daily work
- Is sensitive to other opinions, perspectives, or cultures
- Offers excellent customer service (internal and external)
- Can have difficult conversations with staff and volunteers regarding placement and euthanasia in a sensitive manner
- Comfortable in dealing with angry, confused, distraught and/or irrational people
- Exhibits initiative and motivation in performing all duties
- With or without accommodation has good senses of hearing, vision, and smell (to distinguish between various odors)
- With or without accommodation stands for long periods of time and walks quickly
- With or without accommodation can see clearly with a least one eye and have good dexterity and reflexes especially when restraining or moving an animal
- May lift and carry at least 50 pounds with or without accommodation; crouch and bend at the waist and kneel; must be able to control dogs up to 200 pounds when on a leash
WORKING CONDITIONS:
General office and animal shelter environment. When handling animals, there is a potential of animal bites, exposure to zoonotic diseases, animal dander and noise. Potential for working with angry or irate customers. Involves entering and leaving work areas alone before sunrise and after sunset.
- Equipment Use: Personal computer and printer, applicable software, office supplies, multi-lined telephone, copier, safety boots, hearing protection, eye protection, respirators, gloves, animal leashes, clothes washer and dryer, broom, mop, hoses and nozzle, sprayers, scrapers, squeegees and animal dryers.
- Chemical Interaction: A wide variety of cleaners, disinfectants, detergents, and medical products are used daily. Each position at SH will likely encounter these chemicals during the routine performance of their duties. A staff member will provide specific instructions for the safe and proper use of these chemicals. If there are any questions regarding this information, copies of our chemical MSDS sheets are available for review. If asked to use a product that is unfamiliar, contact your supervisor for proper instructions.
- Work Hours: Full-time non-exempt position. 40 hours per week scheduled, five days a week. Schedule may vary depending on coverage by other department staff, holidays, or emergencies. Must be available evening and/or weekend hours, as well as for emergency calls.
LOCATION:
The position works onsite in the Bellevue, WA campus.
SEATTLE HUMANE CORE VALUES
- Candidate should be committed to Seattle Humane’s Core Values
Collaboration - Compassion
- Accessibility
- Respect
- Adaptability
Who we are:
Seattle Humane is more than a shelter; we’re a community resource center. We're meeting the increasing need for pet owner support services so that families don't have to choose between an overdue bill and a beloved family member. We're training the next generation of veterinarians in our state-of-the-art medical center. We're building a community of animal advocates through our volunteer and youth education programs. The impact of Seattle Humane is life-changing, for the animals in our care and the people who love them. Our top priority is to connect animals in need of rescue with the people who will love them. Through our outreach, advocacy and services, we strive to ensure that animal companionship is accessible to all.
Equal Opportunity
As an equal opportunity employer, Seattle Humane is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.
Shelter Manager Jobs by Experience Level
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Find Shelter Manager JobsShelter Manager Job Market
Who's Hiring
- Low Income Housing Institute13
- CAMBA6
- The Good Seed4
- The Salvation Army4
- Destination Tomorrow3D
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in shelter manager jobs.
- Bachelor's degree in social work, nonprofit management, animal science, or a related field
- Two or more years of supervisory or program management experience in a shelter or residential setting
- Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations governing shelter operations and resident or animal welfare
- Experience with case management software, volunteer coordination platforms, or shelter management systems
- Strong crisis intervention and conflict de-escalation skills in high-stress environments
- Valid driver's license and ability to pass a background check required by most hiring organizations
Tips for Your Shelter Manager Job Search
Tailor your resume to shelter type
Animal shelters and human services shelters look for different backgrounds. Align your resume to the specific environment you're targeting, emphasizing animal care certifications for wildlife or pet shelters and case management experience for residential or crisis shelters.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists shelter manager openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Highlight compliance and safety experience
Shelter manager postings frequently require knowledge of licensing regulations, health and safety standards, and inspection readiness. Name the specific frameworks you've worked within, such as state animal welfare codes or HUD housing quality standards, depending on the shelter type.
Quantify staff and volunteer outcomes
Hiring managers want evidence you can run operations with lean teams. On your resume, include the number of staff and volunteers you've managed and any measurable outcomes you drove, such as reduced turnover, improved intake processing, or increased adoption rates.
Prepare scenario answers for crisis situations
Shelter manager interviews often include behavioral questions about handling overcapacity, resident conflicts, or public health emergencies. Prepare specific examples that show your decision-making process under pressure, not just the outcome.
Negotiate beyond base compensation
Many shelter manager roles are with nonprofits that have fixed salary bands, but professional development budgets, housing allowances, and schedule flexibility are often negotiable. Ask about these before accepting an offer rather than after.
Shelter Manager Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most shelter managers?
The most active employers for shelter managers right now are Low Income Housing Institute, CAMBA, and The Good Seed, and the most openings are in New York, Washington, and California, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Demand is consistent across both animal welfare organizations and human services nonprofits.
How many shelter manager jobs are remote?
About 10% of shelter manager openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting the hands-on nature of most shelter operations. Administrative and program coordination functions within larger organizations are the sub-areas most likely to offer partial remote arrangements, while direct operations roles remain almost entirely on-site.
How do you become a shelter manager?
Start by gaining direct experience in a shelter environment, whether through frontline animal care, residential case management, or volunteer coordination. Build supervisory experience by moving into a lead or assistant manager role. Pursue relevant credentials such as a Certified Animal Welfare Administrator designation or a certificate in nonprofit management. Demonstrating budget oversight and regulatory compliance experience will strengthen your candidacy for manager-level positions.
Can you get hired as a shelter manager with little experience?
Some smaller or rural shelters hire candidates into shelter manager roles when they show strong operational instincts and mission alignment, even without years of direct management experience. Volunteer leadership, internship supervision, or running programs in adjacent fields like social services or animal rescue can substitute for formal management history. Applying to assistant manager or interim roles first is a practical path into a full manager position.
What does the shelter manager interview process look like?
Most shelter manager interviews involve an initial phone or video screen with HR or a hiring director, followed by an in-person or panel interview with operations leadership and sometimes board members. Expect scenario-based questions about handling capacity crises, staff conflicts, and regulatory inspections. Some organizations include a facility walkthrough or ask you to review a sample budget or program report as part of the process.
Where can I find and apply to shelter manager jobs?
You can find and apply to shelter manager jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States in one place. Find roles that match your background and apply directly to each listing without being redirected through multiple platforms or intermediaries.
See All 103+ Shelter Manager Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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