Job Details
*Extra Help* Animal Shelter and Care Attendant
2025-09-08 Humboldt County, CA Mckinleyville,CA
Description:
This position is located in the Sheriff's Animal Shelter in McKinleyville, California.
Work Hours:Although only open to the public on certain days/times, the Animal Shelter is operational 7 (seven) days a week (this includes holidays) with the need to provide care for the animals every day.
Animal Care Attendants generally work 8 (eight) hour shifts on a rotational basis. Shifts are assigned, not chosen, and then rotated about every 3 (three) months. Examples of schedules would be:
Under supervision, provides routine daily care and maintenance of animals housed at the County's animal shelter and care facility. Cleans, disinfects and maintains animal shelter and care facilities. Performs other related duties as assigned.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Animal Shelter and Care Attendant I is the working entry level class responsible for performing the routine day to day duties required for the general operations and maintenance of the County's animal shelter and care facility. This class is alternately staffed with Animal Shelter and Care Attendant II and incumbents may advance to the higher level after gaining experience and demonstrating proficiency which meet the qualifications of the higher level.
Animal Shelter and Care Attendant II is the skilled working level in this series. Incumbents are expected to perform the full range of duties with minimal supervision. This class is distinguished from Animal Control Officer in that the latter works primarily in the field patrolling assigned areas, investigating complaints, capturing animals and enforcing applicable regulations.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
Knowledge of:
Must possess a valid California driver's license. Within 60 days of appointment, must obtain from the State of California a certificate to perform animal euthanasia. Must be medically capable of working with animals and being able to lift and carry up to 80 pounds. Must be available for emergency 24-hour call.
Desirable Education and Experience:
Animal Shelter and Care Attendant I: Equivalent to graduation from high school, and six months of related work experience, or one year of work experience requiring high levels of public contact or customer service.
Animal Shelter and Care Attendant II: In addition to the above, one year of animal shelter care experience at a level equivalent to the County's class of Animal Shelter and Care Attendant I.
WORKING CONDITIONS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
HOW TO APPLY
A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through the County's automated application system at
Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.
It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess. Human Resources staff does not consider or review resumes or attachments. Incomplete applications will be rejected.
Please read the job requirements section of the announcement. Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.
Your performance in any employment examinations will be compared with the performance of others who take the tests. The examination results will be emailed to you as quickly as possible.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does it take to fill out the application?
OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA+ community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways - oftentimes, outside of formal institutions - and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant's qualifications for a position.
If you're excited about this role but your past work experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS
The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at (707) ###-#### so arrangements can be made.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances.
MEDICAL EXAMINATION
A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.
OTHER EXAMINATIONS
Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.
LICENSES
Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver's license.
PROBATIONARY PERIOD
Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.
EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY
It is the County's intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS
All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.
Please Note: Extra Help positions are non-benefitted but may be eligible to purchase health insurance upon meeting the hours worked requirement under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
RETIREMENT
The County of Humboldt participates in the CalPERS, with both the County and the employee making contributions toward the employee's retirement.
CalPERS Retirement Program:
COMPREHESIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE
Our generous benefits package includes:
Employees may elect to purchase additional coverage including:
VACATION
1 - 3 completed years of service = 12 days (192-hour cap)
4 - 10 completed years of service = 15 days (240-hour cap)
11 - 15 completed years of service = 20 days (320-hour cap)
16 - 20 completed years of service = 25 days (400-hour cap)
21+ completed years of service = 30 days (480-hour cap)
HOLIDAYS
Employees earn 15 paid holidays per year (specific dates as defined in their specific Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)), including 2 personal holidays.
SICK LEAVE
Employees earn 12 sick days per year with an unlimited cap on sick day accumulation.
PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS
The County is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness certified employer.
INCENTIVE PAY
County employees may be eligible for additional incentive pay, such as on-call pay, shift differential pay, locked facility pay, or annual uniform allowance, as defined in their specific MOU.
01
This position requires driving on behalf of the County of Humboldt. Do you possess a current and valid California driver's license?
02
In accordance with the schedule, you may be required to work holidays and/or weekends. Does this present an issue for you?
03
Please indicate your years of experience either working with animals or that required high levels of public contact or customer service.
04
Please describe your work experience requiring high levels of public contacts or customer service.
05
Any other coursework, training or experience you would like to add that directly relates to this position.
Required Question
Salary: $16.53 - $22.63 Hourly
Location : McKinleyville, CA
Job Type: Extra-help
Job Number: 25-00059
Department: Sheriff's Office
Division: 278 - Animal Control
Opening Date: 09/05/2025
Closing Date: 9/26/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
DEFINITION
NOTE: This is a part-time, non-benefited position.
Animal Shelter and Care Attendant I/II
Are you passionate about the well-being of animals? Do you want to provide high quality animal care services through compassion, education, and customer service?
Humboldt County Sheriff's Department Animal Services Divisionis seeking an enthusiastic Animal Shelter and Care Attendantto join our team of dedicated professional to provide compassionate and effective animal services for the County of Humboldt.
Job Highlights:
- Feed, exercise and provide humane care for animals in a kennel environment.
- Bathe, brush, and prepare animals for pet adoption.
- Assist with vaccinating and administering medicines under the instruction of a veterinarian.
- Clean, wash, disinfect, and maintain kennels, grounds and related areas.
- Greet shelter visitors and answer questions and provide information relating to shelter policies, procedures and practices; provide advice on appropriate choices for animal adoption and proper animal care.
This position is located in the Sheriff's Animal Shelter in McKinleyville, California.
Work Hours:Although only open to the public on certain days/times, the Animal Shelter is operational 7 (seven) days a week (this includes holidays) with the need to provide care for the animals every day.
Animal Care Attendants generally work 8 (eight) hour shifts on a rotational basis. Shifts are assigned, not chosen, and then rotated about every 3 (three) months. Examples of schedules would be:
- Sunday - Thursday
- Tuesday - Saturday
- Friday - Tuesday
- Monday - Friday
Under supervision, provides routine daily care and maintenance of animals housed at the County's animal shelter and care facility. Cleans, disinfects and maintains animal shelter and care facilities. Performs other related duties as assigned.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Animal Shelter and Care Attendant I is the working entry level class responsible for performing the routine day to day duties required for the general operations and maintenance of the County's animal shelter and care facility. This class is alternately staffed with Animal Shelter and Care Attendant II and incumbents may advance to the higher level after gaining experience and demonstrating proficiency which meet the qualifications of the higher level.
Animal Shelter and Care Attendant II is the skilled working level in this series. Incumbents are expected to perform the full range of duties with minimal supervision. This class is distinguished from Animal Control Officer in that the latter works primarily in the field patrolling assigned areas, investigating complaints, capturing animals and enforcing applicable regulations.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
- Feeds, exercises and provides humane care for animals in a kennel environment.
- Bathes, brushes and prepares animals for pet adoption.
- Assists with vaccinating and administering medicines under the instruction of a veterinarian.
- Observes and monitors animal shelter population and reports behavior irregularities and/or disease symptoms; segregates animals as necessary in isolation or quarantine kennels.
- Performs euthanasia of cats, dogs or other animals as directed; maintains detailed records and security of federally controlled drugs in compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations.
- Cleans, washes, disinfects and maintains kennels, grounds and related areas.
- Greets shelter visitors and answers questions and provides information relating to shelter policies, procedures and practices; provides advice on appropriate choices for animal adoption and proper animal care.
- Provides work direction for volunteers.
- Receives and intakes animals relinquished by owner as well as animals impounded through animal control; assigns initial tracking number to animal for entry into facility record keeping and tracking system.
- Enters notes and other documentation in records, completes forms as necessary and assists with the maintenance of complete and accurate facility records.
- May transport animals.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Knowledge of:
- Basic methods and equipment used in the proper and humane care and treatment of animals.
- Characteristics of various animal breeds and symptoms and behaviors associated with rabies and other common diseases of animals.
- Principles, practices, and tools and materials used for routine facility maintenance and sanitation.
- Safe working practices.
- Basic record keeping principles and practices.
- Handling and controlling animals humanely with confidence and patience.
- Assessing animal behavior and identifying symptoms and behaviors associated with animal disease or illness.
- Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, including hostile or irate citizens.
- Managing psychological stresses associated with animal euthanasia and disposal.
- Performing routine facility maintenance.
- Following written and oral directions.
- Maintaining accurate records and logs.
Must possess a valid California driver's license. Within 60 days of appointment, must obtain from the State of California a certificate to perform animal euthanasia. Must be medically capable of working with animals and being able to lift and carry up to 80 pounds. Must be available for emergency 24-hour call.
Desirable Education and Experience:
Animal Shelter and Care Attendant I: Equivalent to graduation from high school, and six months of related work experience, or one year of work experience requiring high levels of public contact or customer service.
Animal Shelter and Care Attendant II: In addition to the above, one year of animal shelter care experience at a level equivalent to the County's class of Animal Shelter and Care Attendant I.
WORKING CONDITIONS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
HOW TO APPLY
A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through the County's automated application system at
Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.
It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess. Human Resources staff does not consider or review resumes or attachments. Incomplete applications will be rejected.
Please read the job requirements section of the announcement. Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.
Your performance in any employment examinations will be compared with the performance of others who take the tests. The examination results will be emailed to you as quickly as possible.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does it take to fill out the application?
- You should allow 30 - 45 minutes to fill out your application.
- No. Once an application has been submitted, it is final. Applicants may submit a new application with updated information during the filing period if they wish. Only the most recent application submitted will be considered. All other applications will not be considered.
- You may receive communications regarding your application at different stages of the selection process. Important updates will be sent to the email address listed in your governmentjobs.com account at the time of notification. To ensure you don't miss any critical information, we recommend keeping your email address current and regularly checking both your inbox and junk mail folders throughout the process. You can also log into your governmentjobs.com account at any time to check your application status. If you have any questions about your application's progress, please contact the County of Humboldt Human Resources Personnel Division at 707-###-#### or ...@co.humboldt.ca.us.
- Yes, you will be informed via email if you are not selected for an interview / Oral Exam.
OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA+ community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways - oftentimes, outside of formal institutions - and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant's qualifications for a position.
If you're excited about this role but your past work experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS
The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at (707) ###-#### so arrangements can be made.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances.
MEDICAL EXAMINATION
A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.
OTHER EXAMINATIONS
Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.
LICENSES
Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver's license.
PROBATIONARY PERIOD
Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.
EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY
It is the County's intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS
All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.
Please Note: Extra Help positions are non-benefitted but may be eligible to purchase health insurance upon meeting the hours worked requirement under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
RETIREMENT
The County of Humboldt participates in the CalPERS, with both the County and the employee making contributions toward the employee's retirement.
CalPERS Retirement Program:
- Tier I - Prior to 7/5/2012: 2.7% @ 55
- Tier II - Post 7/6/2012: 2% @ 55
- Tier III - Post 1/1/2013: 2% @ 62
COMPREHESIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE
Our generous benefits package includes:
- Health Insurance
- Medical: Multiple plan options available through CalPERS
- County covers majority of employee premium and contributes to dependent coverage
- Additional Insurance Coverage
- Dental: Full premium coverage for employees and all dependents
- Vision: Full premium coverage for employees and eligible dependents
- County-Provided Benefits
- Life Insurance
- Longevity Pay
- Educational Reimbursement
- Deferred Compensation
- Employee Assistance Program
- Bus Pass Program
Employees may elect to purchase additional coverage including:
- Supplemental Life Insurance with guaranteed issuance period at time of hire
- Flexible Spending Accounts
VACATION
1 - 3 completed years of service = 12 days (192-hour cap)
4 - 10 completed years of service = 15 days (240-hour cap)
11 - 15 completed years of service = 20 days (320-hour cap)
16 - 20 completed years of service = 25 days (400-hour cap)
21+ completed years of service = 30 days (480-hour cap)
HOLIDAYS
Employees earn 15 paid holidays per year (specific dates as defined in their specific Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)), including 2 personal holidays.
SICK LEAVE
Employees earn 12 sick days per year with an unlimited cap on sick day accumulation.
PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS
The County is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness certified employer.
INCENTIVE PAY
County employees may be eligible for additional incentive pay, such as on-call pay, shift differential pay, locked facility pay, or annual uniform allowance, as defined in their specific MOU.
01
This position requires driving on behalf of the County of Humboldt. Do you possess a current and valid California driver's license?
- Yes
- No
02
In accordance with the schedule, you may be required to work holidays and/or weekends. Does this present an issue for you?
- Yes
- No
03
Please indicate your years of experience either working with animals or that required high levels of public contact or customer service.
- No experience
- Less than 6 months
- 6 months - 1 year
- More than 1 year
04
Please describe your work experience requiring high levels of public contacts or customer service.
05
Any other coursework, training or experience you would like to add that directly relates to this position.
Required Question