The Lakeland Humane Society is seeking an experienced, compassionate and highly motivated Head Animal Care Attendant to join our team. This dynamic leadership role is ideal for someone who is passionate about making a meaningful difference in animal welfare and community impact. Established in 1999, in cooperation with local communities, the Lakeland Humane Society provides a safe haven for cats and dogs, while promoting responsible pet ownership, a concern for animal welfare, compassion for all living things and their environment, and a commitment to make a difference.
Position Details
· Position Type: Full-Time | Permanent
· Hours: 40 hours per week
· Reports To: Shelter Manager
· Location: Cold Lake, Alberta
· Schedule: Weekdays, some evenings, weekends, and holidays
· Application Deadline: Open until a suitable candidate is found
Why Work Here?
· Make a direct impact in the lives of vulnerable animals every day
· Be part of a supportive, compassionate, mission-driven team
· Help mentor and guide an animal care team
· Work in a meaningful role where no two days are ever the same
· Contribute to positive outcomes for animals and the community
Position Summary
Reporting directly to the Shelter Manager, the Head Animal Care Attendant is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the animal care team while ensuring exceptional standards of animal welfare, sanitation, mentorship, customer service, and shelter operations. The successful candidate will provide leadership and training to a team of approximately 5–6 Animal Care Attendants and volunteers while actively participating in hands-on animal care duties.
Key Responsibilities
· Lead, mentor, train, and support Animal Care Attendants and volunteers
· Ensure high standards of animal care, sanitation, and shelter operations
· Monitor animals for illness, injury, behavioural concerns, and stress
· Administer medications, vaccinations, and treatments as directed
· Coordinate veterinary appointments, surgeries, and medical follow-ups
· Maintain accurate and detailed animal health records, shelter documentation and complete monthly audits
· Support adoptions, fosters, intake processes, microchip program, quarantine procedures, and enrichment programs
· Build positive community relationships while providing exceptional customer service
· Communicate effectively and professionally with diverse audiences
· Manage scheduling, operational oversight, and inventory management
· Promote a respectful and collaborative workplace culture
· Utilize ShelterBuddy or similar shelter management software
· Support humane education, outreach, and community engagement initiatives
Required Qualifications
· Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) certification OR Veterinary Assistant certification with a minimum of 2 years of professional experience in animal care, sheltering, veterinary medicine, or a related field
· Experience administering medications and monitoring animal health
· Strong leadership, judgment, mentorship, conflict resolution, and team-building skills
· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a high degree of emotional intelligence and professionalism
· Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and demanding environment
· Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
· Self motivated and dependable
· Confident and professional public speaking and presentation abilities
· Valid Class 5 Driver’s License
· Experience with Microsoft Office required and ShelterBuddy considered a strong asset
Physical & Working Conditions
This position involves standing, walking, bending, cleaning, lifting up to 50 lbs, and handling animals that may be frightened, reactive, or injured. The successful candidate must be comfortable in a fast-paced environment and in handling emotionally sensitive situations involving animal illness, injury, neglect, behavioural concerns, and euthanasia.
Compensation
Compensation starts at $18.27 per hour.
How to Apply
Interested applicants are invited to submit a resume and cover letter outlining their experience and qualifications to [email protected]. This position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.
The Lakeland Humane Society is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive workplace. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Pay: From $18.27 per hour
Work Location: In person
