Chief Animal Welfare Officer

Alaqua Animal Refuge, Inc.; Freeport (FL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Alaqua Animal Refuge in Freeport, FL seeks a Director of Animal Welfare to lead the ethical and operational care of all animals across the organization, working with our veterinary team and leadership to ensure exceptional daily care and lifesaving impact.

You will guide intake and capacity planning, oversee cruelty and large‑scale rescue cases, collaborate on medical protocols, and mentor a devoted team of animal care staff.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in animal welfare and sheltering.
• Experience managing cruelty, neglect, or large-scale rescue cases.
• Strong knowledge of humane care standards across multiple species.
• Experience with documentation, case management, and reporting.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee humane care standards for all species.
• Partner with veterinary and intake teams for thoughtful intake decisions.
• Coordinate cruelty, neglect, and large-scale seizure cases.
• Support treatment plans with the Medical Director and implement protocols.
• Lead and mentor animal care supervisors and staff.
• Assist with grants, reporting, and policy development.

Skills

Animal welfare

Shelter operations

Leadership

Communication

Documentation & reporting

Job description

Alaqua Animal Refuge in Freeport, FL seeks a Director of Animal Welfare to lead the ethical and operational care of all animals across the organization, working with our veterinary team and leadership to ensure exceptional daily care and lifesaving impact.

You will guide intake and capacity planning, oversee cruelty and large‑scale rescue cases, collaborate on medical protocols, and mentor a devoted team of animal care staff.