Animal Caretaker

Allegan County has much to offer, with 24 Townships, 9 Cities, and 2 Villages across nearly 900 square miles. The landscapes range from the lakeshore to beautifully wooded lands, our County’s natural resources are a gift to be treasured. Allegan County businesses, citizens, and employees are world-class, and we remain a welcoming, closely-knit community. We are one of the fastest-growing counties in Michigan.
Allegan County Government places high importance on our core values: Respect, Integrity, Commitment and Honesty. A common thread among our leadership, employees and volunteers is a strong desire to serve and be part of something meaningful. We have been recognized by Gallagher as “Best in Class Winner” among mid-size companies for our excellence in optimizing employee and organizational well-being for three years in a row (2023-2025). We have also received the “Impact Award” from M.E.R.S. for excellence in educating our employees about their retirement plans and overall financial wellness. We are looking for dedicated, caring, energetic people to join our team!

Job Summary :

Responsible for the overall care, health, and well-being of animals housed at the Allegan County Animal Shelter. This position performs daily animal husbandry tasks, including feeding, cleaning, sanitation, intake processing, recordkeeping, and enrichment activities to support animal welfare and shelter operations. Animal Caretakers help maintain a safe, clean, and compassionate environment for animals, staff, and visitors while ensuring compliance with shelter protocols and state requirements. Lead-level Animal Caretakers may also provide daily oversight and task coordination for inmate shelter workers assisting with shelter operations .

Starting Wage : $19.98 per hour, full-time

Excellent Benefits Plan: Health benefits begin on the first of the month after your hire date
- Medical, Dental & Vision (3 medical plans to choose from, 2 of which have $0 premium)
- County-funded Health Savings Account with our two high-deductible medical plans
- County-paid employee life insurance coverage
- County-paid short-term disability coverage, up to 52 weeks
- Generous retirement plan, including a county contribution of 7% of your annual earnings
- Tuition Reimbursement Program for college degree courses
- Generous PTO plan, including front-loaded hours into PTO bank at hire, and annually on January 1.
- 13 paid holidays, in addition to PTO
- FREE use of Allegan County government's two fitness centers

Responsibilities and Duties :

1. Provide daily animal care , including feeding, watering, monitoring health and behavior, grooming, and ensuring the overall well-being of shelter animals. Provide and engage in mental and physical enrichment activities.
2. Clean and sanitize animal housing areas and shelter facilities in accordance with state mandates and shelter health protocols, including kennels, laundry, dishes, and common workspaces.
3. Safely handle and restrain animals for veterinary care, medical treatment, and intake processing.
4. Complete animal intake, including paperwork, kennel card, and administration of vaccines and preventative treatments.
5. Maintain accurate records of animal feedings, medical treatments, behavioral observations and other animal care updates.
6. Provide professional customer service and collaborate with staff, volunteers, and community partners to support daily shelter operations.
7. Monitor and communicate weekly inventory list of animal food, cleaning supplies and shelter materials.

Required Education and Experience :

1. High School Diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.).
2. Previous experience in animal care or other related fields preferred
3. Previous experience directing or coordinating others desirable