Adoption Counselor

Position Overview

·       Position: Adoption Counselor

·       Status: Part- or Full-Time

·       Hourly Pay Rate: $15.00

·       Work Hours: Various shifts based on shelter needs; must be willing to work Saturdays

Job Duties

·       Proactively engage the public in a warm and friendly manner to identify and assess visitor needs. Approach conversations and topics in an honest, professional manner.

·       Assist potential adopters by asking and answering questions about animals, behaviors, and known health issues, recommending animals that may be a good match for the household, and encouraging adopters to spend time with potential matches.

·       Provide information and educate visitors about animals housed at the shelter.

·       Provide direction to volunteers and monitor work performed by volunteers.

·       Process adoption questionnaires and applications.

·       Collect customer payments, including cash, check, and credit card.

·       Establish, update, and maintain customer information.

·       Process incoming phone calls and return phone calls.

·       Make copies and file completed documents as needed.

·       Enter information and data using Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, internet-based applications, and shelter software.

·       Maintain a clean and organized workspace.

·       Address complaints, provide appropriate solutions, and follow up as needed.

·       Follow shelter procedures, guidelines, and policies.

·       Attend and participate in HSDC staff meetings, training sessions, and other administrative events as scheduled by management.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

·       Current working knowledge of basic office processes and procedures.

·       Skilled in telephone operations.

·       Ability to learn shelter software.

·       Ability to multi-task and work under pressure.

·       Ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor within HSDC and when interacting with the general public.

·       Ability to openly discuss the shelter, its mission, and its animals with co-workers, volunteers, and the public in a friendly, open, and professional manner.

·       Ability to work in an emotionally taxing field; a positive attitude and sense of humor are essential.

Minimum Qualifications

·       High school diploma or equivalent.

·       Reliable and dependable; HSDC animals and adopters rely on your attendance.

·       Proven customer support experience or experience as a client service representative.

·       Previous telephone handling skills and active listening.

·       Current working skills and knowledge of Microsoft Windows and Office.

·       Proper grammar and use of language.

·       Ability to follow directions, multi-task, prioritize, and manage time effectively.

·       Minimum of three years of office experience preferred, but not required.

·       Valid driver’s license required.

·       Must successfully pass a background investigation.

·       Electronic deposit (ACH) of paycheck is required.

Physical Demands & Working Environment

·       Work is performed in an animal shelter with potential exposure to:

o   Temperature variations and high noise levels.

o   Zoonotic diseases.

o   Animal waste and animal fur/hair.

o   Hazardous chemicals or chemical materials requiring OSHA Material Safety Data Sheets.

o   Potentially hostile persons and/or dangerous or fractious animals.

·       Must be comfortable touching and handling a variety of animals.

·       Ability to lift 25 pounds and perform physical activities including lifting, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, and pushing.

·       May be required to sit, stand, bend, reach, and move quickly.

·       Must be able to work assigned shifts, including weekends, holidays, and during emergencies.

·       May be required to work long or unusual hours during peak operational needs.

Probationary Period

This position has a 90-day probationary period.

The Humane Society of Delaware County is an at-will employer.