Hours: 10-20 hours/week (some weekends possible)

Reports to: Community & Animal Care Supervisor

 

Summary

This internship at the Dubuque Regional Humane Society (DRHS) is designed to provide hands-on experience in community engagement, animal welfare, and shelter operations. Community Care Interns will gain practical skills in customer service, organizational communication, and adoption counseling while supporting the mission and values of the DRHS.

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Primary Responsibilities

• Welcome and assist community members, volunteers, and visitors with professionalism and empathy.

• Provide accurate information about DRHS policies, adoption procedures, and available animals.

• Conduct adoption counseling to ensure suitable matches between adopters and animals.

• Receive and process owner-surrendered or stray animals compassionately.

• Perform administrative tasks such as balancing cash registers, maintaining records, and handling payments.

• Assist in creating lost-and-found animal reports and properly record in-kind donations.

• Participate in team meetings to discuss process improvements and address challenges.

• Observe and contribute to strategies for effective communication and teamwork among employees and volunteers.

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Learning Outcomes

By the end of this internship, students will:

• Develop exceptional customer service skills by assisting community members and volunteers.

• Gain understanding of animal adoption processes, including counseling and animal behavior assessment.

• Learn administrative functions related to animal intake, financial transactions, and data management.

• Strengthen interpersonal communication skills within a diverse workplace.

• Apply problem-solving techniques to address community inquiries and complaints effectively.

• Collaborate with shelter staff and volunteers to support animal welfare initiatives.

 

Qualifications

• Interest in animal welfare and shelter operations.

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks, including standing, bending, and stooping for extended periods.

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays if needed.

• Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative attitude.

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Working Conditions

• Interns will encounter regular exposure to animal odors, potential allergens, contagious conditions, high noise levels, and the physical demands of working with animals, including potential bites or scratches.

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Evaluation Criteria:

• Demonstrates punctuality, adherence to guidelines, and respectful interaction with community members, staff, and volunteers.

• Evident growth in customer service, animal handling, and administrative tasks as outlined in learning objectives.

• Effectively conveys information verbally and in writing, and actively participates in team discussions.

• Shows initiative and resourcefulness in addressing community inquiries, complaints, and operational challenges.

• Actively engages with staff and volunteers, contributing to a positive and productive work environment.

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To apply, interested students should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their interest in the internship, relevant coursework, and career aspirations to hr@dbqhumane.org

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This position will remain posted until filled. Apply today!