Intake Support Specialist

Job Summary

Required Qualifications

• •At least one year of experience with animal sheltering, rescue organizations, or veterinary medicine
• •Knowledge of animal breeds, behavior, body language, and safe handling practices
• •Ability to track program metrics, identify trends, and recommend operational improvements
• •Experience using Gmail, Google Drive, and Facebook
• •Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• •Positive, collaborative, and service-oriented attitude
• •Ability to build relationships with volunteers, community members, rescue partners, and staff while effectively communicating Ruff Start Rescue policies and procedures
• •Ability to communicate effectively in a typical office environment with a standard level of office noise
• •Occasional standing, bending, walking and lifting (30 lbs)
• •Compassionate & Empathetic - Demonstrates deep care for both people and animals
• •Community-Oriented - Passionate about creating positive, lasting impact within the local community
• •Resourceful & Solutions-Focused - Skilled at problem-solving and thinking creatively to find practical solutions, especially when faced with limited resources or urgent situations
• •Strong Communicator - Clear, patient, and confident when communicating in person, over the phone, and in writing
• •Organized & Detail-Oriented Manages multiple programs and tasks with accuracy and efficiency. Keeps track of interactions, program data, and follow-ups in a timely and professional manner
• •Conflict-Resilient & Diplomatic - Maintains professionalism and calm under pressure, particularly in emotionally tense situations involving surrender, complaints, or unmet expectations
• •Culturally Competent & Inclusive - Understands and respects diverse perspectives, experiences, and challenges. Creates a welcoming environment for all individuals regardless of background
• •Adaptable & Flexible - Comfortable adjusting to changing needs, schedules, and responsibilities. Willing to jump in where needed to support animals and people alike
• •Mission-Driven & Passionate About Animal Welfare - Aligned with Ruff Start Rescue's values and deeply committed to its mission. Views the role not just as a job, but as a meaningful way to improve lives
• •Flexibility is required based on transport schedules, including evenings and weekends as needed
• •Daily emailing and/or phone communication is required
• •Employee must be able to communicate effectively in a typical office environment with a standard level of office noise
• •Occasional standing, bending, walking and lifting (30 lbs) is also required
• •Employee will be required to be a part of animal transport, which will expose the employee to animals (primarily dogs/cats), dirt, dust, uneven surfaces, and outdoor weather conditions
• •Compassionate & Empathetic - Demonstrates deep care for both people and animals
• •Community-Oriented - Passionate about creating positive, lasting impact within the local community
• •Resourceful & Solutions-Focused - Skilled at problem-solving and thinking creatively to find practical solutions, especially when faced with limited resources or urgent situations
• •Strong Communicator - Clear, patient, and confident when communicating in person, over the phone, and in writing
• •Organized & Detail-Oriented Manages multiple programs and tasks with accuracy and efficiency. Keeps track of interactions, program data, and follow-ups in a timely and professional manner
• •Conflict-Resilient & Diplomatic - Maintains professionalism and calm under pressure, particularly in emotionally tense situations involving surrender, complaints, or unmet expectations
• •Culturally Competent & Inclusive - Understands and respects diverse perspectives, experiences, and challenges. Creates a welcoming environment for all individuals regardless of background
• •Adaptable & Flexible - Comfortable adjusting to changing needs, schedules, and responsibilities. Willing to jump in where needed to support animals and people alike
• •Mission-Driven & Passionate About Animal Welfare - Aligned with Ruff Start Rescue's values and deeply committed to its mission. Views the role not just as a job, but as a meaningful way to improve lives
• •to be considered for this position, you must submit a cover letter in addition to a resume

Desired Qualifications

• •Customer service experience preferred
• •social media experience preferred