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

Reports to: Director of Operations

 

Summary

The Operations Intern supports the Dubuque Regional Humane Society (DRHS) in its mission to provide compassionate care and positive outcomes for animals. This internship offers hands-on experience in shelter operations, animal care coordination, customer service, and administrative support. Under the guidance of the Director of Operations and shelter leadership, the intern will gain insight into non-profit operations, animal welfare, and public service partnerships.

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Primary Responsibilities

Shelter Operations Support:

• Help monitor inventory levels for animal care and clinic supplies.

• Shadow and support cross-functional teams including animal care, customer service, and medical staff.

• Participate in shelter walk-throughs to ensure safety, cleanliness, and operational readiness.

Administrative & Compliance Tasks:

• Support documentation efforts related to municipal contracts, reporting, and animal care records.

• Assist with data entry, filing, and internal communication needs.

• Help prepare materials for meetings, inspections, and program evaluations.

Animal & Customer Care Assistance:

• Provide customer service to the public by helping answer questions and sharing resources.

Facility & Safety:​

• Help monitor facility maintenance needs and communicate issues to the appropriate supervisor.

Special Projects & Learning Opportunities:

• Collaborate on research and implementation of operational improvements.

• Attend internal meetings and trainings relevant to animal welfare and shelter operations.

• Assist with community events, public outreach, or volunteer engagement activities, as needed.

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Learning Outcomes

Intern will gain experience in:

• Shelter operations

• Nonprofit organizational practices

• Professional communication and teamwork in an animal welfare setting

 

Qualifications

• Strong interest in animal welfare and/or shelter operations.

• Reliable, organized, and willing to take initiative.

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with animals of all sizes and temperaments.

• Good communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work as part of a team.

• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace).

• Must be at least 18 years old.

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Working Conditions

• Exposure to animals of varying sizes and temperaments.

• May encounter loud noise, odors, animal waste, and physically demanding tasks.

• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs, bend, and stand for extended periods may be required.

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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!