Chandler Adoptions Manager (Full-time/Exempt)

The Arizona Animal Welfare League is hiring a Chandler Adoptions Manager. The Chandler Adoptions Manager leads the daily operations of our Chandler Adoption Center, creating a welcoming, inclusive, and pet-centered environment where people and animals can connect. This role is responsible for building, developing, and supporting a high-performing team of staff and volunteers dedicated to ensuring every animal receives exceptional care and is matched thoughtfully with adopters.

The Manager champions a positive, judgment-free adoption experience, supports community engagement, and ensures that every interaction reflects our commitment to keeping pets and people together. This position also contributes to strategic and financial goals, operational excellence, and a culture of compassion, respect, and accountability.

The Chandler Adoptions Manager reports to the Director of Adoption Programs and works full-time. AAWL’s Chandler team works shifts between 8am and 9:30pm, 365 days a year. To effectively manage the Chandler team, it may be necessary to work a varied shift and varying days. The manager sets the schedule for themselves and the entire team under the general supervision of the Director of Adoption Programs.

Supervision Received:This position reports directly to the Director of Adoption Programs.

Supervision Exercised:This position supervises Chandler Assistant Manager, Chandler Specialists and Chandler volunteers.

Responsibilities

Manage, supervise, and develop a diverse team of staff and volunteers to meet organizational goals.

• Guide the team in creating positive, judgment-free adoption experiences that build trust with the community.

• Provide excellent customer service in a compassionate, professional manner; ensure staff does as well.

• Address and resolve adoption-related concerns with empathy and professionalism, escalating as appropriate.

• Oversee retail operations to include ordering, inventory management, sales programs and at register donation generation.

• Monitor floor activity and provide hands-on support to staff and customers as needed.

• Develop a strong understanding of animal behavior and welfare with the ability to clearly communicate their needs to clients

• Support volunteer onboarding and training programs, ensuring volunteers feel prepared, valued, and empowered to contribute.

• Provide ongoing guidance, feedback, and recognition to foster staff and volunteer engagement and retention

• Track and meet departmental goals, maintain accurate records, and reporting.

• Continuously evaluate processes and implement improvements to enhance efficiency and impact.

• Learn and become proficient in administering vaccinations and medications and performing SNAP testing within 60 days of hire (training provided).

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of customer service experience required.

• At least 1 year of work experience in an animal-care environment is required.

• A minimum of 1 year of work experience as a lead or manager of a team is required.  

• Demonstrated success working with and developing volunteers is strongly preferred.

• Strong communication, organizational, and team-building skills.

• Willingness to learn and perform basic medical procedures, including vaccinations, medication administration and SNAP testing, within 60 days of hire.

• Passion for animal welfare and supporting successful pet adoption experiences.

To Apply for This Position

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references (with contact details) to [email protected] the subject line Chandler Manager to Julie McCabe our VP of Operations. No phone calls or walk-ins, please. AAWL is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals.

Employment Details

• Salary starts at $41,400 per year

• Generous PTO, sick leave, and 12 paid holidays annually.

• 100% employer-paid medical and life insurance; dental, vision, and supplemental options available.

• Employer-supported professional development.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Eligible employer under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program.