Rescue manager

The Rescue Manager upholds the mission of Second Chance Sheridan Cat Rescue (SCSCR) by overseeing the day-to-day rescue operations and ensuring the health, welfare, and quality of life of all cats in care. This position focuses on animal care leadership, medical coordination, staff and volunteer oversight, and operational excellence. The Rescue Manager is cross-trained in adoption and client services to ensure continuity of operations, but this is not a primary responsibility for this position.

The Rescue Manager works closely with the Executive Director, Adoption and Client Services Coordinator, Veterinary Team, Cat Care Specialists, and volunteers to ensure consistent, high-quality sheltering, medical, and enrichment practices across all SCSCR programs.

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Core Responsibilities

Animal Care & Welfare Leadership

· Oversee daily rescue operations related to animal care, health, behavior, and enrichment.

· Ensure all cats receive appropriate daily care, monitoring, and enrichment consistent with SCSCR standards.

· Participate in and supervise intake, medical treatment, recovery, behavioral observation, and sanctuary care.

· Monitor population flow and housing needs across adoption, medical, quarantine, and sanctuary spaces.

· Ensure accurate and timely animal records are digitally maintained.

Medical Monitoring & Support

· Provide hands-on daily medical support under established veterinary protocols, including properly administering medications, expressing bladders when required, and supporting cats with ongoing medical needs.

· Closely observe cats for signs of illness, pain, stress, or behavioral changes and promptly report concerns to the veterinary team.

· Accurately document medical observations, treatments given, and changes in condition in designated medical logs.

· Support recovery and quality-of-life monitoring for cats with chronic conditions, post-procedure needs, or long-term sanctuary care.

· Ensure strict adherence to safety, sanitation, and handling protocols when providing medical support.

· This role does not perform veterinary procedures, diagnose conditions, prescribe treatments, or make independent medical decisions beyond established protocols.

Staff & Volunteer Management

· Directly supervise Cat Care Specialists and animal care volunteers, providing day-to-day guidance, oversight, and performance feedback.

· Create, manage, and adjust staff and volunteer schedules to ensure adequate coverage for animal care, medical support, and facility operations.

· Serve as the primary on-site supervisory contact during assigned shifts.

· Provide onboarding, training, and ongoing coaching to ensure consistency in care standards, safety, and procedures.

· Foster a positive, collaborative work environment focused on professionalism, accountability, and animal welfare.

Facility, Inventory & Operations Management

· Oversee general building upkeep, cleanliness, safety, and functionality of shelter facilities and equipment.

· Identify maintenance needs and either address routine issues directly or coordinate with appropriate vendors, contractors, or service providers.

· Communicate facility needs and major repair issues to the Executive Director and Board as appropriate.

· Manage inventory of cat food, litter, cleaning supplies, medical support supplies, and other operational materials.

· Monitor supply usage, maintain organized storage, and place supply orders in coordination with the Executive Director.

· Support implementation of operational policies, procedures, and workflow improvements.

Cross-Training & Operational Coverage (Non-Primary Duties)

· Maintain cross-training in adoption processing, appointment scheduling, and client communications to provide coverage during staff absences or emergencies.

· Assist with front-desk, phone, email, and client support functions to maintain continuity of care and operations.

· Coordinate internally with the Adoptions and Client Services Coordinator to ensure smooth handoffs between animal care, medical, and adoption teams.

Community & Organizational Support

· Assist the Executive Director with community outreach initiatives as related to rescue operations.

· Support volunteer training and engagement related to animal care and shelter operations.

· Attend relevant continuing education opportunities, trainings, and webinars.

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Qualifications & Skills

· Experience in animal sheltering, rescue operations, veterinary support, or animal care management is preferred.

· Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

· Ability to directly supervise staff and volunteers with professionalism and empathy.

· Comfort working in a fast-paced, emotionally demanding shelter environment.

· Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across roles and departments.

· Working knowledge of animal shelter software systems (or ability to learn quickly).

· Flexible availability, including some evenings and weekends, is required.

· Ability and willingness to cover Cat Care Specialist shifts as needed to ensure continuity of animal care during staff illness or unexpected absences.

· Commitment to the mission and values of Second Chance Sheridan Cat Rescue.

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Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $35,360–$37,440 annually, depending on experience

Benefits include:

· Paid Time Off

· Discounted pet food

· Discounted pet insurance through MetLife

· Free veterinary exams, vaccines, and basic care

· Discounted veterinary procedures, surgeries, and medications

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This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Duties and responsibilities may evolve to meet organizational needs while remaining aligned with the core focus of animal welfare and rescue operations.

If interested, please send a cover letter and resume to rachel@sheridancatrescue.org.