Shelter Programs Administration Intern
Job Description
Revised:
Reports To:
May 2014
Volunteer Manager-Tomomi Suenaga; Shelter Manager- Jackie Lightle
POSITION OVERVIEW:
Great Plains SPCA seeks bright, enthusiastic candidates for a Shelter Programs Administration
Internship. This position is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in animal welfare, nonprofit
management, or volunteer management.
Interns will
 Gain hands-on experience implementing vital, life-saving programs both with volunteers and
directly with the animals at our 28,000 sq-ft, no-kill facility in Independence.
 Learn new skills and build your network while working alongside Great Plains SPCA –
Independence’s Volunteer Manager and Shelter Manager as well as experienced staff and
volunteers
RESPONSIBILITIES:
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Assist with Volunteer Program Management including working with databases
Assist with teaching animal handling classes to new and existing volunteers and staff
Run reports, do rounds, and follow up on animals’ needs to help manage the flow and care of all
shelter animals
Write communications for volunteers and staff
QUALIFICATIONS:
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Sophomore or junior standing at 4-year college or 2nd year standing at community college as of
May 2014, in good academic standing (cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on 4.0 scale)
o Target degrees: Communications, Nonprofit Management, Program Administration,
Public Relations, Recreation Administration, Veterinary Technology, Veterinary
Management or any relevant field
o Will consider experience in lieu of education for the right candidate seeking a career in
animal welfare
Maturity, good judgment and professionalism
Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
Compassion and empathy for animal and human clients
Attention to detail, thoroughness in job completion
Ability to work individually and on a team, multi-task and self-start
Good presentation skills and ability to grow in this area
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
 Lift 40 lbs to waist height
 Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching, sitting at a computer for long periods
 Handle and restrain animals weighing up to 100 lbs
 Exposure to animal smells, cleaning solutions and chemicals, outdoor elements
SCHEDULE:
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Summer internship with option to expand through Fall semester (June 17 – August 12, flexible)
20-30 hours weekly; much flexibility but must be able to attend bi-weekly staff meetings
Wednesdays at 11:30 am
BENEFITS:
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Opportunity to work with experienced animal welfare and nonprofit professionals
Flexible scheduling
Business casual work environment
Volunteer-level discounts on products and services
Unlimited puppy and kitten cuddling
TO APPLY: Please send cover letter, resume, and completed employment application to Tomomi
Suenaga at tsuenaga@greatplainsspca.org. Applications for Summer position must be received by
Tuesday, June 10th.