Kennel Attendant - City of Vancouver, Vancouver

AI Summary

The City of Vancouver is actively seeking a Kennel Attendant (Auxiliary) to join their team in Vancouver. This vital role focuses on manual and animal care work at the City’s Animal Shelter, encompassing the feeding, handling, and general welfare of impounded animals. Key requirements for this position include completion of Grade 12, sound experience working with animals, and possession of a current and valid BC Driver's License.

About the Role

As a Kennel Attendant with the City of Vancouver, you will play a crucial part in ensuring the well-being of a variety of impounded animals. Your daily responsibilities will involve maintaining a close watch on animal behaviour and health, noting and reporting any injuries or signs of illness to the supervisor. This role requires providing ongoing intake and welfare checks within the scope of your training and experience, along with administering prescribed medication or other treatments as instructed by a veterinarian. You will also perform essential First Aid when required, ensuring the immediate care of any animal in distress. A significant aspect of the position involves meticulous record-keeping, updating kennel communication records, and entering information into the Animal Register database. Furthermore, you will engage with the public through adoption counselling, providing specific information on a dog's behaviour and needs to ensure a good match for potential adoptions. The ability to deal courteously and effectively with the public is paramount in this role, which is based in the vibrant city of Vancouver.

Key Qualifications & Skills

Candidates for the Kennel Attendant position must demonstrate a strong foundation in animal care. This includes completion of Grade 12 combined with sound experience working with animals, particularly those that may be difficult. While not mandatory, certification from a recognized Veterinary Assistant program is considered a valuable asset. A current and valid BC Driver's License is a strict requirement, ensuring you have the ability to legally and safely carry out job responsibilities without restrictions. Applicants must possess sound knowledge of the methods, practices, and procedures for the care and well-being of animals, alongside a comprehensive understanding of common medications and their applications in veterinary practice. This extends to sound knowledge in medical treatments for injured or ill animals, preventative medical care, and post-operative care. The role also demands sound knowledge and ability in the behaviour and training methods for dogs, including aggressive animals. You must have the ability to work effectively as part of a team, carry out routine tasks with minimal supervision, and make difficult decisions based on best practices for the well-being of the animals in the shelter. Physical ability to lift and carry heavy, bulky objects up to 40lbs, such as feed bags and large animals, is also essential for this demanding yet rewarding role in Vancouver.

Working Environment & Impact

Joining the City of Vancouver means becoming part of an organization consistently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities and recognized as one of BC’s Top Employers. This auxiliary role offers meaningful work where your dedication directly impacts the welfare of animals within the community. You will contribute to an innovative, inclusive, and engaging workplace that values public service, sustainability, and equity. The position requires flexibility, as you will be expected to work evening shifts, weekends, and statutory holidays to ensure continuous care for the animals. Beyond direct animal care, you will provide support and education to current volunteers, explaining animal handling and basic behaviour modifications, and encouraging enrichment through basic training and play. Your experience and knowledge will be vital in fostering a positive environment for both animals and volunteers. The City of Vancouver is committed to recruiting a diverse workforce and acknowledges its location on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation), reflecting a deep commitment to reconciliation and community well-being.