Shelter Operations Manager - Animal Welfare Leader

Santa Barbara Humane; Santa Barbara (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Professional development

Supportive culture

Job summary

Santa Barbara Humane is seeking a Manager of Shelter Services on our Santa Barbara Campus. This hands-on leadership role guides a dedicated team and oversees daily shelter operations and client services.

You will develop programs, manage adoption-driven capacity, and supervise medical care, enrichment, foster programs, and outreach initiatives while ensuring safety and compassionate care for animals and their families.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or 3–5 years of management experience in an animal shelter or veterinary setting.
• Demonstrated interest in Socially Conscious Sheltering philosophies and mission.
• Experience supervising teams, providing training and coaching to staff, and ensuring performance and accountability.
• Experience in program development and continuous process improvement to enhance operations.
• Strong knowledge of animal breeds, behavior, health, and safe handling around dogs and cats of varying temperaments.
• Valid California driver’s license with a driving record acceptable to SB Humane’s insurer.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily shelter operations and client services at the Santa Barbara Campus.
• Guide adoption-driven capacity planning and program development while managing shelter oversight.
• Supervise medical care, enrichment, foster programs, behavior modification, transfers, and marketing initiatives.
• Lead a team with a focus on safety, compassion, and adherence to organizational standards.

Skills

Team leadership

Effective communication

Animal welfare knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree or related experience

Job description

Santa Barbara Humane is seeking a Manager of Shelter Services on our Santa Barbara Campus. This hands-on leadership role guides a dedicated team and oversees daily shelter operations and client services.

You will develop programs, manage adoption-driven capacity, and supervise medical care, enrichment, foster programs, and outreach initiatives while ensuring safety and compassionate care for animals and their families.