Community Cat Program Manager

$66,560 - $74,880/Yr

San Diego Humane Society - San Diego, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

San Diego, CA

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

San Diego Humane Society is seeking a dedicated Community Cat Program Manager to lead and enhance our Community Cat Program (CCP). This role is pivotal in overseeing the development and operation of a focused Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) program, which aims to manage and improve the welfare of community cats. The successful candidate will supervise the CCP Department staff, ensuring that each team member is equipped with the necessary training and support to perform their duties effectively. This includes conducting regular educational workshops for the public to promote understanding and compassion towards community cats, as well as ensuring that humane handling practices are maintained throughout the program. In this position, you will be responsible for managing an estimated 10,000 cats annually, which requires a strategic approach to program development and execution. You will work closely with the VP of Shelter Medicine & Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to align the program with organizational policies and goals. Your role will also involve responding to escalated resident complaints and working directly with community members to resolve conflicts related to community cats. This requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to de-escalate situations effectively. Additionally, you will assist in creating and updating protocols, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and training materials for the CCP, ensuring that all staff and volunteers are well-prepared to engage with the community and manage the program's operations. The position also involves recruiting and coordinating volunteers to assist with trapping free-roaming cats in targeted areas, fostering partnerships with local organizations, and managing the program's budget in collaboration with the CMO. If you are passionate about animal welfare and have the skills to lead a dedicated team, we encourage you to apply.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the Community Cat Program (CCP) including the Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) program.
• Supervise CCP Department staff, providing guidance, coaching, and performance monitoring.
• Conduct regular educational workshops for the public regarding community cats.
• Respond to escalated resident complaints and resolve community cat-related conflicts.
• Ensure team members are trained in de-escalation techniques and public engagement.
• Assist with creating and updating CCP protocols, SOPs, and training materials.
• Recruit and coordinate volunteers for trapping free-roaming cats in target areas.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with program volunteers and organizations.
• Work with the CMO to prepare annual budgets and control expenditures.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Minimum of four years of paid, full-time experience in animal welfare and public engagement.
• One year of supervisory experience required; two years preferred.
• Experience trapping cats as part of a Trap-Neuter-Return program.
• Valid driver's license and approval by SDHS insurance carrier to drive for work purposes.
• Ability to work weekends.

Nice-to-haves

• Bilingual in English and Spanish.
• Formal community organizing training or experience.
• Prior experience in a shelter, animal hospital, or high-volume spay/neuter clinic environment.

Benefits

• 403(b) retirement plan with 5% match after 1 year
• Paid time off including a Birthday Day Off
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Free pet adoptions, pet vaccines, and spay/neuter services