JOB TITLE:
Canine Program Operations Manager
FSLA STATUS:
Salary, Hourly Non-Exempt
WORK SCHEDULE:
Full-Time, Hours may vary
REPORTS TO:
National Director of Canine Programming
Job Summary
The incumbent in this position oversees all canine program operations at the Clear Path for Veterans (CPV) New York (CPVNY) location. In this capacity, this position manages, supervises, and coordinates staff, volunteers, and outreach activities. Engages and works with the canine program team to maintain, develop, and improve upon systems and processes to increase efficiency across each section. Actively listens to and fosters growth among staff and volunteers while maintaining realistic expectations and promoting teamwork. This position acts as a team leader and facilitator, operational motivator, and facilitates effective communication throughout the organization when possible. The Canine Program Operations Manager will ensure standard operating procedures are continuously reviewed to remain in alignment with Assistance Dogs International (ADI). This position understands, honors, and supports the organization’s mission, vision, values, and principles, and clearly articulates the organization’s function while also having demonstrated success as a supervisor in the organization. This position reports to the National Director of Canine Programming for all matters pertaining to canine program and will coordinate with the CPVNY Director of Operations for administrative functions.
Primary Functions
Management of Program Components
1. Ensure the program’s Standard Operating Procedures are followed and that operational efficiency, culture, and staff morale remain high.
2. Coordinate all facility components associated with the program. This includes but is not limited to general maintenance, cleaning, facility upgrades, special projects/events, and maintaining proper storage.
3. Create and maintain a complete inventory of training equipment, food, and other program needs.
4. Identify and track outreach opportunities and report them to the National Director of Canine Programming and to the CPVNY Director of Operations.
5. Directly support the administrative needs of the National Director of Canine Programming as requested, i.e., grant reporting, budgeting questions, etc.
Management, Team Building, Leadership, and Relationships
1. Ensure effective and timely recruiting, interviewing, and assessing job candidates, contractors, and program volunteers, including collaborating with others to make the best hiring and volunteer commitment decisions.
2. Manage time-to-hire so as not to leave positions unnecessarily vacant.
3. Assist in new employee orientation and training as requested.
4. Effectively evaluate the performance, skills, and professional development needs of staff (where applicable)
a. This includes a regular schedule of formal performance evaluations, training, and mentorship.
5. Coordinate meetings across program departments to ensure optimal communication and transparency throughout the program.
6. Manage and evaluate the activities of volunteers, making necessary adjustments as needed. Collaborate with program staff and CPVNY Volunteer Program Manager to create a solid canine program volunteer base.
7. Serve as the CPVNY community liaison for various events involving the canine program, including but not limited to fundraising and outreach.
a. Participate as needed with the National and CPVNY teams in fundraising and other events on and off-site.
b. Support program efforts to create community relations through public access training and service dog awareness.
Administrative and Miscellaneous
1. Ensure all CPVNY canine facilities are tour ready.
a. This may include performing maintenance, decorating, and cleaning if needed
b. Keep updated information relating to CPVNY activities readily available within the working area
2. Maintain all manuals to include, but not limited to, all Standard Operating Manuals and update as required.
3. Assist the Training Manager in maintaining training books and materials for new program participants.
4. Work with the National Director of Canine Programming and CPVNY Executive Director to develop and manage the budget. Explain and justify budget variances.
5. Ensure all canine records are organized and maintained.
6. Identify and complete continuing education to ensure CPVNY remains current with changing laws.
7. Attend and actively participate in staff meetings as requested.
8. Produce reports as needed.
9. Maintain an inventory for all program needs.
10. Exhibit maximum flexibility to respond to emergency dog care or other urgent canine program issues.
11. Complete other duties or tasks assigned or needed to complete job responsibilities and support Clear Path’s mission.
Education and Experience Needed
1. Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, OR equivalent work experience.
2. Experienced in fund development including grant seeking/applying/reporting procedures.
3. Experienced in project management, process improvement, and data analysis.
4. Proficient in task and time management sufficient to multi-task across projects.
5. Background in training service dogs preferred.
6. Supervisory and managerial experience with diverse teams.
7. Excellent verbal, written presentation, and IT skills.
8. Experience working with or maintaining extended associations with Veterans preferred.
Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities Needed to Perform Effectively in the Position
1. Understanding of and commitment to Clear Path’s mission, policies, and protocols.
2. The ability to be compassionate yet firm and exercise good sound judgment.
3. Ability to exhibit passion and support for the mission of Clear Path for Veterans.
4. Ability to work with a diverse group of people.
5. Leadership style that offers creativity and innovation to promote ideas and outcomes.
6. Above-average ability to problem solve.
7. Superior interpersonal and communication skills.
8. Exceptional organizational skills.
9. Computer literacy and the ability to operate office equipment sufficient to perform the functions of the job.
10. Ability to understand and work with PTS, MST, and TBI in veterans.
11. Ability to travel and work flexible hours including weekends.
12. Knowledge of military and warrior culture.
Additional Requirements
· Valid New York State driver’s license and must have use of a reliable vehicle.
· May be required to work weekends, and evenings as needed.
· Must be comfortable with dogs in the workplace.
· Participate in special events as required.
· Required to travel to chapter and affiliate locations as strategically defined.
· Attend conferences and networking opportunities on a frequent basis.
Work Location
Work locations will vary depending on day-to-day tasks and responsibilities. Active attendance at Clear Path for Veterans main location will be required when not conducting off-site tasks.
Job-related Physical Abilities needed to perform the job in a satisfactory manner
Must possess speech and hearing sufficient for telephone and in-person communications. Manual dexterity is sufficient for constant use of computer keyboard and other office equipment. Vision sufficient for frequent use of a computer monitor, developing and reading paperwork. Must be able to stand and be actively mobile for extended periods of time, including bending, stooping, reaching, running, balancing, etc. Must be able to lift a minimum of 35 lbs.
• All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
Expectations
· Ensure all Clear Path for Veterans employees conduct themselves in a professional manner towards others including but not limited to; veterans, volunteers, other Clear Path employees, and visitors.
· Ensure that veterans, volunteers, employees, or guests have a positive experience with Clear Path.
· Supports and promotes the Clear Path mission.
· Adheres to Clear Path for Veterans policies and procedures.
· Promotes teamwork amongst coworkers.
· Meets or exceeds expected performance standards, including consistently reporting to work on time prepared to perform the duties of the position.
All applicants must submit a cover letter and should apply through the following: https://clearpath4vets.talentnest.com/en/posting/101131
Only qualified applicants with a cover letter and complete resume will be contacted for further consideration.