Pet Adoption Counselor

We are a nonprofit 501(c)(3) animal rescue organization dedicated to saving companion animals from county shelters and placing them into safe, loving homes. We are currently seeking a compassionate and reliable Full-Time Adoption Counselor to join our team at our Canyon Country location.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a cover letter explaining your interest in this position.

Position Overview

The Adoption Counselor plays a key role in matching animals with the right homes, supporting adopters, and ensuring the health and well-being of animals in our care. This position requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Key ResponsibilitiesAdoption Support

• Assist potential adopters in selecting the best pet for their lifestyle
• Educate adopters on responsible pet ownership and animal-specific needs
• Provide guidance on training, behavior, and veterinary care
• Promote a positive, mission-driven environment
• Maintain professionalism and composure in high-stress situations

Animal Care

• Monitor animal health and schedule veterinary appointments as needed
• Transport animals to and from shelters and veterinary clinics
• Recognize signs of illness and contagious conditions; follow proper protocols
• Administer medications (injectable, topical, oral) or be willing to learn
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date animal records
• Interpret animal behavior, including dog body language and social interactions
• Understand how animals adjust to new environments

Operations & Communication

• Keep work areas clean, organized, and fully stocked
• Answer phone calls and respond to emails in a timely manner
• Counsel adopters, fosters, and volunteers on proper animal care
• Engage with the public regarding adoptions, donations, and volunteer opportunities
• Enforce adoption policies and procedures
• Follow written and verbal instructions effectively
• Collaborate positively with team members
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of animal handling experience preferred (training available for the right candidate)
• Shelter or veterinary experience is a plus
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Schedule

• Full-time position
• Must be available to work weekends and holidays

Benefits

• Health insurance eligibility after 60 days
• 10 days of paid vacation
• 6 paid sick days accrued during the first year

EMPLOYMENT DISCLAIMER: This job description is not a contract - management reserves the right to change its contents at any time. The Foundation does not discriminate on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, or sexual orientation. The Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Ability to Relocate:

• Canyon Country, CA 91387: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person