Kennel Attendant

Requisition ID: 43286 

Organization

Located on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Peoples, Vancouver has a commitment to becoming a City of Reconciliation. Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable and environmentally sustainable cities. Named among Canada's Top 100 Employers, BC's Top Employers, and Canada's Greenest Employers, the City of Vancouver seeks colleagues who can help shape and embody our core commitments to sustainability, reconciliation, equity and outstanding quality of life for all residents.

Consider joining our committed team of staff and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.

Main Purpose and Function
This is manual and animal care work performed at the City’s Animal Shelter. The incumbent feeds handles and cares for all impounded animals as well as liaises with the supervisor to ensure best practices are met. 

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Maintains a close watch on animal behaviour and health, notes and reports injuries and signs of illness.
• Provides on going intake and welfare checks of animals in the shelter within scope of training, experience and departmental policy.
• Administers prescribed medication or other treatment in accordance with instructions from the veterinarian.
• Performs First Aid as required.
• Keeps kennel communication records current and up to date and enters information into Animal Register database as needed.
• Provides support and education to current volunteers, explains animal handling and basic behaviour modifications, encourages enrichment of shelter animals through basic training and play. Provides feedback to supervisor as required.
• Adoption counseling with members of the public to ensure a good match for potential adoptions, and provides specific information on dog’s behavior and needs.
• Feeds, waters, and cares for a variety of impounded animals
• Cleans and disinfects kennels and other work areas. Maintains cleanliness and organization of storage trailer.
• Work is performed under the direction of the supervisor and is reviewed for effective services rendered.
• Other duties/responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications
Education and Experience:

• Completion of Grade 12, plus sound experience working with animals including difficult animals, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Certification of a recognized Veterinary Assistant program is an asset.
• A current and valid BC Drivers License is a requirement of this position. The license must not include any restrictions that would affect the ability to legally and safely carry out job responsibilities.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Sound knowledge of methods, practices and procedures for the care and well-being of animals.
• Sound knowledge in the procedures, rules and regulations of the work.
• Sound knowledge of common medications and their applications in veterinary practice
• Sound knowledge in medical treatments for injured or ill animals as well as preventative medical care and post-operative care.
• Sound knowledge and ability in the behaviour and training methods for dogs, including aggressive animals.
• Ability to deal courteously and effectively with the public.
• Ability to work with all employees and interact as part of a team environment.
• Ability to carry out routine tasks with minimal supervision.
• Ability to effectively use handheld radios, computers and computer programs
• Ability to make difficult decisions based on best practices for the well-being of the animals in the shelter.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy, bulky objects up to 40lbs, such as hoses, bags of feed and supplies and large animals.

Drivers License

• A current and valid BC Drivers License is a requirement of this position. The license must not include any restrictions that would affect the ability to legally and safely carry out job responsibilities.
• Candidates must attach the following records and satisfy the City’s driving requirements to be considered for this role:
  • Copy of your three-year ICBC Commercial Driver’s Abstract (N Print) directly from ICBC dated within 15 days of this posting
  • Copy of your three-year ICBC Driver’s Claims History directly from ICBC within 15 days of this posting
  • If you have less than three years' driving experience in BC, a request must be made for out of province/country abstract and claims history

Business Unit/Department: Development, Buildings & Licensing (1250) 

Affiliation: CUPE 15 Non Parks 

Employment Type: Auxiliary/Casual 

Position Start Date: March 2025 

Salary Information: Pay Grade GR-015: $29.20 to $34.30 per hour

Application Close: February 23, 2025

At the City of Vancouver, we are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that represents the community we so proudly serve. Indigenous peoples, people of colour, 2SLGBTQ+ persons including all genders and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.  Accommodations will be provided upon request during the selection process. Learn more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion. 

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In addition to uploading your cover letter and resume, part of the application process may include answering application questions related to the preferred requirements of the role which may take approx. 5-10 minutes. Cover letters should express interest and highlight additional information relevant to the position and resumes should include a summary of skills and experience related to the position.