Cat Adoption Counselor

Ellen M. Gifford Cat Shelter; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 20,664 - 27,552; Part time

Job summary

A historical animal shelter in Boston is seeking a part-time Adoption Counselor to facilitate pet adoptions and provide support for potential adopters. Responsibilities include customer service, animal matchmaking, handling adoptions, and maintaining records. Ideal candidates should have a passion for cats and strong communication skills. The role requires one to two days a week, including a weekend day, with flexible hours. Join a dedicated team in a mission-driven environment that prioritizes animal welfare.

Qualifications

• Passion for cats!
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Compassion and understanding of animal behavior.
• Ability to make sound judgments for successful matches.
• Organization and attention to detail for paperwork and records.

Responsibilities

• Greet visitors, answer questions, and match pets to families.
• Assist with basic care and observe animals.
• Inform adopters about pet care and responsibilities.
• Participate in adoption events and create social media content.
• Maintain accurate records of animals and applications.
• Conduct follow-up calls and help resolve issues.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Animal behavior understanding

Judgment for matches

Organization

Job description

Are you interested in part-time, weekend adoption counselor opportunity for Gifford Cat Shelter, the country’s oldest free-roam, no-kill shelter?

Gifford seeks a mature, responsible cat lover to match cats with suitable owners by interviewing applicants, reviewing applications, and facilitating the adoption process to ensure successful, long-term placements. Key duties include customer service, animal matchmaking, handling adoptions, record-keeping, and supporting community outreach.

The Adoption Counselor is a part-time opportunity of one to two days per week, one of which must be a weekend day. Hours are approximately 11-6pm, with some flexibility offered.

Major Responsibilities

• Adoption Facilitation: Greet visitors, answer questions, match pets to families, conduct interviews, review applications, process fees, and complete paperwork.
• Animal Care Support: Observe animals, assist with basic care (feeding, cleaning), note behavioral issues, and coordinate with vet staff.
• Counseling & Education: Inform adopters about pet care, behavior, costs, and the responsibilities of ownership. Provide support and resources for keeping pets in their homes.
• Outreach & Marketing: Participate in adoption events, create social media content, and promote adoption programs.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of animals, applications, and adoption statuses.
• Post-Adoption Support: Conduct follow-up calls and help resolve issues.

Preferred Qualifications

• Passion for cats!
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Compassion and understanding of animal behavior.
• Ability to make sound judgments for successful matches.
• Organization and attention to detail for paperwork and records.

The mission of Gifford Cat Shelter is to provide a haven for stray, abused, and unwanted cats until they are matched with their permanent loving homes. At Gifford, cats are free to roam and play. They nap in sunny windows, get plenty of exercise, and enjoy tons of love and attention while they wait for their forever homes. A no-kill shelter, Gifford believes that all cats should have a chance to live their lives free of pain and fear. No matter their story, every Gifford cat has a future to look forward to. And until they find their new homes, they'll spend their days in bright, open environments, getting all the love they need!

The Renaissance Network (TRN) is an equal opportunity employer. TRN complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, disability, protected veteran status, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

Seniority level

Entry level

Employment type

Part-time

Job function

Administrative, General Business, and Training

Industry

Non-profit Organizations