About Job

PAWS Shelter of Central Texas is a no-kill shelter that believes in second chances! We’re a dedicated, compassionate team caring for more than 100 dogs and cats at any given time, and we find loving homes for over 1,000 animals every year.

We are currently seeking a caring and enthusiastic Cat Adoption Counselor for our off-site adoption location at PetSmart in Sunset Valley. This position is responsible for matching cats and kittens with loving homes while ensuring a positive, welcoming experience for potential adopters. Applicants must have previous cat experience (personal or paid) and basic knowledge of animal health and behavior. As part of the interview process, applicants should be prepared to volunteer for one full shift alongside another PAWS adoption counselor.

Responsibilities

Engage with the public in a friendly and welcoming manner.
Get to know each cat’s personality and needs to help match them with appropriate homes.
Work collaboratively with volunteers.
Guide prospective adopters through the process, including sharing information about animal care and behavior, reviewing applications, conducting conversational interviews, and making final adoption decisions. Maintain courtesy and professionalism, even when declining an application.
Learn about cat behavior, common issues, and solutions to support successful adoptions and reduce returns.
Clean animal areas and equipment thoroughly, including daily spot cleaning of public spaces, to maintain a healthy, attractive, and enriching environment.
Transport animals, carriers, and equipment to and from our Kyle campus as needed.
Monitor animal health and behavior, promptly reporting any concerns to the direct manager or veterinary technician.
Treat all animals with compassion and respect, regardless of circumstance, and promote a humane attitude toward all living beings.
Work courteously with PAWS and PetSmart staff.
Assist with other shelter needs or special events as requested.

Job Skills & Requirements

Strong interpersonal skills; personable, patient, professional, and compassionate.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Commitment to animal welfare and willingness to work alongside animals in a shelter environment.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Good judgment, maturity, and professional appearance.
Flexibility and ability to manage multiple priorities.
Calm, positive demeanor in stressful situations.
Skill in asking questions to gather information, while showing empathy.
Ability to tactfully decline adoptions when necessary.
Familiarity with cats and cat behavior, with experience in rescue, humane societies, foster care, or veterinary settings.
Proficiency with computers and related technology.
Valid driver’s license and reliable, climate-controlled vehicle.
Must be 18 years of age or older.

Physical Requirements / Work Environment

Ability to walk, stand, and bend repeatedly during a workday.
Ability to lift and carry up to 45 lbs.
Comfort working around animals (including sick, injured, or aggressive) and strong odors.
Ability to work with cleaning chemicals.
Potential exposure to bites, scratches, and zoonotic diseases.
Individuals with allergies that may be aggravated by animal contact may be disqualified.

Education

High school diploma or GED required, plus experience working or volunteering with cats.

Job Scope
This role is performed independently with minimal supervision. Errors can result in decreased adoptions, poor customer relations, or harm to animals, all of which can negatively impact the organization.

Hours
30–32 hours/week, 5 days/week, 6-hour shifts. Weekends required.

Pay
$13–$14/hour, depending on experience (DOE).

Benefits
No benefits offered.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $13.00 - $14.00 per hour

Expected hours: 32 per week

Shift availability: