Foster Coordinator

The Foster Coordinator is responsible for the coordination of the foster program at the West Midtown Campus. The coordinator works closely with foster volunteers, the Foster Program Manager, Supervisor and other departments to coordinate resources in a constant effort to enhance and develop the foster program to meet the growing needs of the organization.  

Duties & Responsibilities  

• Ensure consistent implementation and ongoing maintenance of the foster program.  

• Conduct regular recruitment, screening and training for foster volunteers in accordance with AHS policies and procedures 

• Deliver specialized foster training to ensure foster homes are well equipped and prepared to support the program 

• Ensure that foster parents are following all relevant AHS and Department of Agriculture guidelines  

• Conduct and document home checks according to the Department of Agriculture guidelines 

• Identify appropriate animals for foster placement 

• Coordinate the placement and transfer of animals into appropriate foster homes in accordance with the foster family’s skill level and availability 

• Maintain roster of available foster families and communicate availability of fosters to appropriate department point(s) of contact 

• Monitor compliance with foster procedures to ensure that animals are receiving proper medical treatment and follow up  

• Monitor progress of animals in the foster program; Ensure foster animals are being socialized properly and making progress in their rehabilitation allowing them to be moved into the adoption program in an efficient manner 

• Work closely with Shelter Medicine team to make appointments for foster families with medical and surgical appointments and ensure that appointments are kept 

• Maintain all necessary documentation of drug usage and prescriptions in PetPoint as instructed by shelter veterinarian for foster animals  

• Provide detailed regular reports to Foster Manager 

• Schedule and complete routine vaccine appointments. 

• May take pictures and provide bio information on animals  

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent  

• Minimum of two - three years’ animal handling experience  

• Proven ability to exercise independent judgment, decision making and escalate issues appropriately 

• Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality in sensitive, complex, and/or controversial situations  

• Ability to communicate professionally and effectively, both orally and in writing 

• Well-developed interpersonal skills 

• Self-reliant, highly motivated, and positive attitude 

• A passionate advocate for and desire to work with animals 

• Knowledge of animal welfare in a shelter environment is beneficial 

• Willing to be trained on animal diseases, medications and treatment protocols 

• Willing to be trained to administer vaccines, deworming, fluids and fecal testing 

• Basic computer knowledge in a Windows environment and willing to be trained on multiple computer applications that support our foster volunteer program 

• Requires humane handling of animals and the safe handling of cleaning supplies, chemicals and equipment in compliance with safety rules and in accordance with SDS rules 

• Physical efforts require constant bending, stooping and lifting up to 50 lbs. with reasonable accommodations. 

• Safety procedures must be adhered to at all times  

• Must have a valid driver’s license in good standing and be insurable by AHS insurance carrier, and/or have reliable transportation, suited for the requirements of the position