Shelter Health Specialist

Lynchburghumanesociety; Lynchburg (VA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Lynchburg Humane Society is seeking a Shelter Health Specialist to protect the health and wellbeing of the animals in our care. You will work closely with veterinarians and the Medical Manager to monitor, assess, and care for medically managed shelter pets.

The role involves intake and wellness exams, administering medications and vaccines, maintaining records, and helping with treatment plans under veterinary supervision.

Qualifications

• Comfort handling animals of varying sizes, temperaments, and behaviors.
• Ability to recognize health or behavioral changes through observation.
• Strong organizational skills for busy medical records and inventory.
• Calm, effective performance in fast-paced shelter environments.
• Ability to work independently and with veterinary staff.
• Clear, respectful communication with staff, volunteers, and the public.
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and safely handle animals.
• Willingness to follow shelter policies and safety procedures.
• Willingness to obtain Fear Free Certification.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Conduct intake and wellness examinations under veterinary supervision.
• Administer medications and vaccines as directed.
• Monitor medical records and maintain accurate documentation.
• Assist with treatment plans and monitor progress.
• Maintain medical supply inventory and communicate needs.
• Share health updates with staff, volunteers, and fosters.
• Ensure a safe, clean, and healthy shelter environment.

Skills

Animal handling

Medical record keeping

Observation skills

Communication

Team collaboration

Physical stamina

Safety procedures

Fear Free Certification

Flexibility in schedule

Job description

Description

The Shelter Health Specialist plays a key role in protecting the health and wellbeing of the animals in our care. Working closely with the Shelter Veterinarians and Medical Manager, this position helps monitor, assess, and care for medically managed shelter pets.

This role is responsible for conducting intake and wellness examinations, identifying potential medical concerns, administering medications and vaccines, and assisting with treatment plans under veterinary supervision. The Shelter Health Specialist also maintains accurate medical records, monitors medical supply inventory, and communicates important health information to staff, volunteers, and fosters.

In a fast-paced shelter environment, this position helps ensure that every animal receives timely vet attention while contributing to a safe, clean, and healthy environment for both animals and people.

Requirements

Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-paced animal shelter environment and supporting the medical care of animals with varying needs and temperaments.

Qualified candidates should demonstrate:

• Comfort safely handling animals of different sizes, behaviors, and temperaments, including fearful or fractious animals
• Strong observational skills and the ability to recognize changes in an animal’s health or behavior
• Ability to stay organized and maintain accurate records in a busy medical environment
• Ability to remain calm and effective while working in a fast-paced and sometimes stressful setting
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating closely with the veterinary and shelter teams
• Ability to communicate clearly and respectfully with coworkers, volunteers, and the public
• Ability to lift and move 50+ lbs and safely handle animals
• Willingness to use appropriate safety equipment and follow shelter policies and procedures
• Willingness to obtain Fear Free Certification
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays