We are looking for a responsible, reliable, and personable individual to join our team as a part-time Cat Caretaker! The majority of a Cat Caretaker’s job is caring for the cats in our facility by cleaning their living spaces and spending time with them as they await adoption (although additional duties may be assigned depending on personal strengths, seasonal needs of the shelter, and yearly fundraising events).

A typical day for a Cat Caretaker will include:

• Cleaning & sanitizing the cat housing areas: sweeping, mopping, wiping surfaces, scooping litter, providing fresh food and water, doing laundry, washing dishes

• Meeting the cats’ basic needs: brushing, nail trims/ear cleanings, administering medications (training is provided)

• Spending time with the animals, especially shy cats and those on medical holds, to increase their socialization & adoptability

• Maintaining a tidy and clean environment

Working in an animal shelter is an incredibly rewarding occupation; however, it can also be quite demanding and take an emotional toll. People most likely to thrive as a Cat Caretaker will possess the following skills and qualities:

• A love of cats (of course!)

• Kindness towards animals and people

• General knowledge of cat behavior

• Effective and open communication

• Thorough attention to detail

• Ability to multitask

• Willingness to jump in and help others when needed

• Ability to successfully function in both teamwork and individual settings

  • This also includes being able to complete tasks and problem-solve when a supervisor is not immediately available

• Responsiveness to direction and guidance

• Reliability, responsibility, and dedication

• Good judgment

• Organizational tendencies

• Professionalism when interacting with the public

• Adaptability to a fast-paced, constantly changing environment

• Ability to remain calm under stress

• Capability to successfully process a wide variety of emotions

  • While most of our interactions with animals are happy, we do encounter a variety of circumstances that can evoke emotional responses. It’s vital that everyone has an effective support system to work through any potential negative situations.

In order to apply for the Cat Care position, you must:

• Have a reasonable flexibility of schedule; applicants with open availability will be given priority

  • There are two cat shifts per day: one from 9am-1pm, and one from 12pm-4pm

• Be 18 years or older

• Have a reliable form of transportation to attend all shifts that are scheduled (we’re unable to schedule shifts around personal transportation availability)

• Be able to lift 40+ lbs (litter bags) and perform moderate physical activity for around 4 hours per day

• Have availability during all seasons; this is a year-round position

Hours may vary depending on animal population and shift availability. Shifts begin in the morning (9am) and afternoon (12pm). You may be scheduled to work several days per week, with two required weekends a month and some holidays. Pay is hourly and begins at $14.50/hour.

How to Apply:

If you meet all of the above qualifications and feel that you’d make an excellent addition to WAHS, we’d love to have you apply! Click the button below to fill out an application. After you submit the application, a resume must be sent to cats@winonahumane.org. Feel free to call us at 507-452-3135 or email with any questions about the job opportunity!