Adoption Counselor and Community Support Specialist

$35,360 - $35,360/Yr

Humane Society Of Greater Miami - North Miami Beach, FL

Full-time - Entry Level

North Miami Beach, FL

Personal and Laundry Services

About the position

The Adoption Counselor and Community Support Specialist at the Humane Society of Greater Miami plays a crucial role in the organization's mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need. This position requires a dedicated individual who is 100% bilingual in English and Spanish, as effective communication with prospective adopters is essential. The primary focus of this role is to provide exceptional customer service to visitors and potential adopters, ensuring that both animals and adopters have a positive and fulfilling experience throughout the adoption process. The ideal candidate will be passionate about animal welfare and possess strong interpersonal skills to educate and guide potential adopters. In addition to customer service, the Adoption Counselor will conduct thorough adoption interviews to match animals with suitable adopters, educate them on the specific needs and behaviors of the animals, and assist in selecting pets that align with their lifestyle. The role also involves overseeing the intake process for new animals, conducting initial assessments, and managing resources effectively to maintain a high standard of care. Accurate documentation and record-keeping are vital, as the counselor will maintain records of all adoptions and interactions with adopters, ensuring that all paperwork is completed correctly. Community engagement is another key aspect of this position, as the Adoption Counselor will participate in outreach programs to promote adoption and responsible pet ownership, represent the organization at events, and foster relationships with local businesses and community groups. The role also includes providing pet resources to community members in need and assisting in triaging support requests. Additionally, the counselor will engage in sales and fundraising efforts to support the organization's programs, actively seeking donations and promoting pet-related products and services to visitors.

Responsibilities

• Greet and assist visitors and prospective adopters, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment.
• Respond promptly to inquiries via phone, email, and in-person.
• Provide detailed information about the adoption process, animal care, and the responsibilities of pet ownership.
• Conduct thorough adoption interviews to match animals with suitable adopters.
• Educate adopters on the specific needs, behaviors, and health of animals available for adoption.
• Assist adopters in selecting pets that match their lifestyle and preferences.
• Oversee the intake process for new animals in the facility.
• Conduct initial assessments of incoming animals to determine their suitability for adoption.
• Work with staff and volunteers to ensure a smooth transition for animals entering the facility.
• Maintain accurate records of all adoptions and interactions with adopters.
• Ensure that all adoption paperwork is completed thoroughly and correctly.
• Update animal profiles and adoption databases as needed.
• Participate in outreach and education programs to promote adoption and responsible pet ownership.
• Represent the organization at adoption events and community fairs.
• Foster relationships with local businesses and community groups to support adoption efforts.
• Work closely with other staff and volunteers to achieve the organization's adoption goals.
• Provide training and support to new staff and volunteers as needed.
• Provide pet resources, including distributing pet pantry items to community members in need.
• Assist in triaging community pet support requests, connecting pet owners with necessary resources and services.
• Promote and sell pet-related products and services to adopters and visitors.
• Actively seek donations and contributions to support the organization's programs and initiatives.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional education in animal science, veterinary technology, or a related field is a plus.
• Previous experience in animal welfare, customer service, or a related field.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Passion for animal welfare and a commitment to the organization's mission.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Basic computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and database management.
• Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings as required.

Nice-to-haves

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Experience in planning, judgment, implementation, communication, staff development, interpersonal skills, and cost containment.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• 403(b)
• Bereavement leave
• Yearly performance review and increase based on review
• Overtime opportunities and cross training
• Holiday pay and/or Floating holidays granted for Federal Holidays
• Complimentary preventative care and other services at no cost or reduced price
• Reduced adoption fees available after 90-day introductory period
• Hands-on experience in the operations of a non-profit animal shelter
• Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals in the field of animal welfare
• Networking opportunities with staff, volunteers, and community partners
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of animals in need and contribute to the mission of Humane Society of Greater Miami.