JOB SUMMARYThe Animal Shelter Technician supports the care and well-being of animals housed at the City shelter by providing feeding, cleaning, and enrichment services. This position ensures a safe and sanitary environment, monitors animal health, assists with veterinary procedures, and provides customer service for adoptions, intakes, and reclaims. The role also supports volunteer engagement and contributes to shelter operations that promote humane treatment and public safety.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSThe following list highlights the main responsibilities of this position. While it covers the core tasks, it may not include every duty that could be assigned. Employees may be asked to take on other responsibilities as needed to support the team and department.
- Provide daily care for shelter animals, including feeding, watering, and monitoring health and behavior.
- Maintain clean and sanitary conditions in kennels, cages, and shelter facilities; disinfect equipment and restock supplies.
- Assist veterinary staff with routine treatments and medication administration.
- Support customer service functions, including adoptions, intakes, and reclaims; process related paperwork accurately.
- Collaborate with volunteers and assist with training and program support.
- Ensure compliance with shelter procedures and uphold standards of animal welfare and public trust.
- All other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS & PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS - High school diploma or equivalent.
- Basic computer skills for recordkeeping and data entry.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - One (1) year of experience in an animal care facility.
- One (1) year of customer service experience.
COMPETENCIES AND ENVIRONMENT KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES - Ability to handle animals safely and recognize signs of illness or behavioral concerns.
- Strong interpersonal skills for working with staff, volunteers, and the public.
- Ability to follow established procedures and work independently when needed.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS This position requires lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally. Frequent activities include standing, walking, bending, and handling. Exposure to aggressive animals, zoonotic diseases, loud noises, hazardous chemicals, and extreme weather conditions is possible. Protective equipment such as gloves, boots, and eye protection is required.
WORK ENVIRONMENT Work is performed in a shelter environment with exposure to animals of unknown origin and temperament. Rabies pre-exposure vaccination may be required at the City’s expense.
The City of San Marcos offers its employees a broad range of benefits to enhance their personal and occupational lives. We are committed to a total rewards strategy that provides employees with competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and an environment that supports a healthy work/life balance.View our Benefits Guide.
BENEFITSRetirement
- Public Agency Retirement Services (PARS) - Individual trust replacing Social Security
- Mission Square Retirement Corporation - optional 457-deferred compensation plan and Roth IRA
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS - Employee Assistance Program
- Activity Center Membership
- Direct Deposit
Closing Date/Time: 3/4/2026 11:59 PM Central