Animal Services - Foster Coordinator (Temporary/Part-Time)

Foster Coordinator - $17.50/ Hour - This part-time, temporary position allows for a maximum of 1,000 hours per calendar year. It does not include any benefits. - This position is funded exclusively through designated grant support and is contingent upon continued availability of funds. Duties: - Develops and implements standardized foster program policies, procedures, and caregiver agreements in compliance with municipal shelter regulations and BCAS and County policies. - Coordinates foster caregiver onboarding, orientation, and training. - Monitors foster program capacity, identifies expansion opportunities, and develops contingency plans for overcrowding and emergency situations. - Leads targeted community outreach efforts to recruit new foster caregivers throughout Berrien County. - Coordinates foster recruitment campaigns in partnership with BCAS leadership. - Serves as the primary liaison between foster families and BCAS staff. - Develops educational materials, digital communications, and program updates. - Assesses animals for foster placement in collaboration with medical and shelter staff, matching them with appropriate foster homes based on their needs and caregiver capacity. - Provides ongoing support and case management to foster caregivers, coordinates veterinary care and adoption readiness, and monitors animals' medical and behavioral progress throughout foster placement. - Maintains accurate records of foster placements, returns, outcomes, and length of stay. - Tracks key performance indicators including live release rate, foster utilization rate, average length of stay, and intake diversion impact. - Provides required reports to grant funders and BCAS leadership. - Assists in compiling data for future grant applications. Works collaboratively with intake, animal care staff, veterinary providers, rescue partners, and adoption coordinators. - Supports transport or transfer initiatives and assists with population management strategies during high-intake seasons. - This description is intended to illustrate the type and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. It may not be a comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities required by a person so classified. Education and Experience: - High school diploma or equivalent and two years of supervisory experience over volunteers and programs with at least two years of animal handling experience. - Experience in grant writing is highly desired. Special Requirements: - Must possess and maintain a valid vehicle operator's license with access to a reliable vehicle throughout the course of employment. - A background check will be performed. - Will be required to complete the Fear Free Shelter Certification program within 30 days of employment. - Duties will require the abilities to lift at least 50 pounds, bend, stoop, walk and stand for long periods of time. Required Knowledge and Skills: - Vast knowledge of domestic animals and wildlife. - Personal initiative, with the ability to effectively plan and organize work. - Capable of working in an environment with pet-related noises, animal feces and urine, and in an environment where euthanasia of animals occurs. - Able to interact effectively with individuals with diverse social, economic, and cultural backgrounds as well as emotional pet owners. Familiar with the geography, streets and principal locations within Berrien County. - Able to use social media outlets effectively.