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Animal Welfare Program Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tamus

Animal Welfare, Project Manager

Dallas, TX

The Animal Welfare, Project Manager is responsible for managing and directing projects and programs aimed at research animal welfare and research excellence, contributing to an overall strategic ...

Tyson Foods

Specialist Animal Welfare

Newbern, TN

Conducts animal welfare and handling, regulatory, biosecurity, process evaluation and certification ... Provides technical support and assistance with Tyson's CARE and Farm Check programs. * Manages and ...

New

Tyson Foods

Specialist Animal Welfare

Newbern, TN

Conducts animal welfare and handling, regulatory, biosecurity, process evaluation and certification ... Provides technical support and assistance with Tyson's CARE and Farm Check programs. * Manages and ...

New

SPCA of Polk County, TX

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Animal Welfare Representative

Livingston, TX · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

An animal welfare representative is a key element of our society by providing the highest level of ... programs (MS Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint etc.) * Previous knowledge of pet management and/or ...

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Animal Welfare Program Manager information

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$38.5K

$107.5K

$157K

How much do animal welfare program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal welfare program manager in the United States is $107,460.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Animal Welfare Program Manager do?

An Animal Welfare Program Manager oversees and implements programs designed to ensure the humane treatment and well-being of animals in various settings, such as shelters, research facilities, or agricultural operations. Their responsibilities include developing animal care policies, monitoring compliance with animal welfare regulations, training staff, and conducting inspections or audits. They may also coordinate outreach and education initiatives to promote animal welfare standards within the community.

Are animal welfare program manager jobs in demand?

Animal welfare program manager jobs are in demand due to increasing public awareness of animal rights and the need for organizations to improve animal care standards. These roles often require strong project management skills, knowledge of animal behavior, and relevant certifications, with employment opportunities available in nonprofit organizations, shelters, and government agencies.

What are some common challenges Animal Welfare Program Managers face when implementing new animal care protocols?

Animal Welfare Program Managers often encounter challenges such as staff resistance to change, limited resources, and the need to balance animal care standards with operational constraints. Successfully implementing new protocols often requires effective communication, comprehensive staff training, and ongoing monitoring to ensure compliance. Collaboration with veterinarians, animal caretakers, and regulatory agencies is essential to address concerns and adjust protocols as needed, ensuring the well-being of animals while meeting organizational goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Welfare Program Manager?

To thrive as an Animal Welfare Program Manager, you need a solid background in animal science, welfare practices, and program management, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in animal care or advocacy. Familiarity with regulatory compliance systems, data management tools, and animal welfare auditing standards is typically required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help you excel in stakeholder engagement and team coordination. These skills ensure programs are effectively implemented, compliant with regulations, and deliver positive outcomes for animal well-being.

What is the difference between Animal Welfare Program Manager vs Animal Shelter Coordinator?

AspectAnimal Welfare Program ManagerAnimal Shelter Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in animal science, biology, or related field; experience in program managementHigh school diploma or equivalent; experience with shelter operations
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, government agencies, or advocacy groupsAnimal shelters, rescue organizations, or municipal shelters
Employer & Industry UsageFocuses on program development, policy implementation, and advocacyHandles daily shelter operations, animal care, and adoption processes
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in animal welfare management and policyLearning about shelter operations and animal care roles

The Animal Welfare Program Manager typically oversees broader initiatives, policy development, and advocacy efforts within animal welfare organizations. In contrast, the Animal Shelter Coordinator focuses on daily shelter operations, animal care, and adoption processes. Both roles are vital in the animal welfare industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Is animal welfare a stressful job?

Animal Welfare Program Managers often work in emotionally demanding environments due to exposure to animal suffering, euthanasia, and resource limitations. The role requires strong emotional resilience, problem-solving skills, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations regularly.
More about Animal Welfare Program Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Animal Welfare Program Manager jobs? Cities with the most Animal Welfare Program Manager job openings:
What states have the most Animal Welfare Program Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Welfare Program Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animal Welfare Program Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Welfare Program Manager jobs are:
Animal Welfare Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Welfare Program Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,460 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Director of Animal Welfare

Alaqua Animal Refuge, Inc.

Freeport, FL

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Director of Animal WelfareFull Time/ ExemptAlaqua Animal Refuge | Freeport, FLLead with Compassion. Advocate with Integrity. Change Lives.At Alaqua Animal Refuge, we believe every animal deserves safety, dignity, and a chance at a better life. As one of the Southeast's premier no-kill animal welfare organizations, we rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome thousands of animals each year while serving as a leader in animal cruelty response and advocacy.We're seeking an experienced and passionate Director of Animal Welfare to help shape the future of animal care at Alaqua. This is more than a management position—it's an opportunity to protect vulnerable animals, guide ethical decision-making, and lead a dedicated team committed to making a lasting impact.If you're an experienced animal welfare professional who thrives in a collaborative environment and believes compassion and accountability go hand in hand, we'd love to hear from you.What You'll DoAs the Director of Animal Welfare, you'll serve as the ethical and operational leader for animal care across the organization. Working closely with our veterinary team, operations staff, and leadership, you'll ensure that every animal receives exceptional care while helping Alaqua responsibly expand its lifesaving impact.Key ResponsibilitiesChampion Animal Welfare
  • Oversee and uphold humane care standards for all species.
  • Ensure proper housing, enrichment, handling, and daily care practices.
  • Monitor and continuously improve animal welfare programs.
Guide Intake and Capacity Planning
  • Partner with veterinary and intake teams to make thoughtful, mission-driven intake decisions.
  • Balance animal needs, medical resources, staffing, and facility capacity.
  • Help maximize Alaqua's ability to save lives responsibly.
Lead Cruelty and Large-Scale Rescue Cases
  • Coordinate and oversee animal cruelty, neglect, and large-scale seizure cases.
  • Maintain accurate documentation for medical treatment, expenses, and legal proceedings.
  • Work alongside law enforcement and internal teams to ensure accountability and transparency.
Collaborate with Veterinary Leadership
  • Support treatment plans and welfare decisions with the Medical Director.
  • Help implement medical protocols across animal care teams.
  • Ensure daily care aligns with veterinary best practices.
Develop and Inspire Teams
  • Lead, mentor, and support animal care supervisors and staff.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, compassion, and continuous learning.
  • Address animal welfare concerns promptly and professionally.
Support the Mission Beyond Daily Care
  • Assist with grants and reporting related to animal care and cruelty response.
  • Develop and maintain policies and standard operating procedures.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable regulations and industry best practices.
What We're Looking ForRequired Qualifications
  • Significant experience in animal welfare, sheltering, rescue, sanctuary, veterinary medicine, or a related field.
  • Experience managing cruelty, neglect, or large-scale animal rescue cases.
  • Strong knowledge of humane care standards across multiple species.
  • Experience with documentation, case management, and reporting.
  • Proven leadership and team management skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
The Ideal Candidate Is:
  • Passionate about animal welfare and the human-animal bond.
  • A calm and confident leader during high-stress situations.
  • Ethical, compassionate, and willing to advocate for animals.
  • Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Collaborative and committed to building strong relationships across departments.
Why You'll Love Working at AlaquaAt Alaqua Animal Refuge, you'll join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to making a difference every single day. This role offers the opportunity to:
  • Lead meaningful, lifesaving work.
  • Shape the future of animal welfare programs.
  • Play a critical role in animal cruelty investigations and rescue efforts.
  • Collaborate with an exceptional team of veterinary and animal care professionals.
  • Make a lasting impact on thousands of animals and the people who love them.
Working ConditionsThis position requires flexibility and the ability to work in a fast-paced animal welfare environment. Candidates should be comfortable working around a wide variety of animal species and responding to emergency or large-scale animal rescue situations when needed.Join Our MissionAt Alaqua Animal Refuge, we don't just care for animals—we advocate for them, protect them, and give them a second chance. If you're ready to lead with compassion, integrity, and purpose, we encourage you to apply and become part of a team that's changing lives every day.Come help us give every animal the future they deserve.