09/07/2026
We’re Hiring! Animal Care Staff Member
The Humane Society of Erie County is looking for a reliable, hardworking person to join our animal care team.
This is an entry-level animal care position with opportunities to grow within the organization.
Hours:
• 8:00 AM–12:30 PM or 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
• Weekend hours are required
• Occasional Thursday evenings until 7:00 PM
Daily responsibilities include:
• Cleaning and scrubbing kennels, carriers, cages, and animal areas
• Feeding and medicating animals
• Repeated bending, kneeling, lifting, and physical activity
• Cleaning up bodily messes and accidents
• Understanding and appropriately responding to dog and cat body language
• Working effectively as part of a team while also staying productive independently
• Maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy environment for the animals
• Providing compassionate, consistent care to animals with a variety of needs and personalities
This is physical, hands-on work. You must be comfortable getting dirty, working hard, and applying plenty of elbow grease. There will be days involving mud, messes, odors, and all of the less-glamorous parts of animal care- as well as great days of fun and knowing that you are making a difference! Pay for entry level animal care starts at federal minimum wage, as we are a non-profit organization ($11/hr). Starting pay may be higher based on prior experience, willingness to take on additional responsibilities, and the ability to quickly learn and master new skills. Pay increases are available as you demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and reliability.
What We're Looking For
• Must be 18 years or older
• Reliable transportation required
• Punctuality and dependability are essential
• Must be comfortable working around dogs and cats
• Must be able to safely and confidently handle routine animal-care tasks
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Previous dog experience preferred
Please do not apply if you have allergies to dogs or cats. This position requires daily, prolonged exposure to both.
Opportunities to Grow
- For the right person, there is potential to grow into additional responsibilities, including:
• Adoption counseling
• Front desk and customer service
• Dog play groups
• Dog outings and community activities
• Other animal-care and shelter responsibilities
If you are dependable, hardworking, compassionate, and aren't afraid to get your hands dirty, we'd love to hear from you!
Begin by submitting an employment application here:
Please be advised that we do background checks on EVERYONE who applies to be a Volunteer with us. We reserve the right to deny your application if your background does not meet the criteria our volunteers must meet. We appreciate your help and honesty in completing this application.
