1

Kennel Assistant Manager Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

Acting as the primary point of contact for clients, managing the multi-line phone system ... Assisting with the safe handling and restraint of patients, monitoring animals in the kennel, and ...

Be Seen First

Acting as the primary point of contact for clients, managing the multi-line phone system ... Assisting with the safe handling and restraint of patients, monitoring animals in the kennel, and ...

Be Seen First

Manage daily operations of the hunting dog program, including care, training, feeding, and health ... Supervise, coach, and develop kennel staff and seasonal assistants. * Create and maintain financial ...

Kennel Assistant Manager information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$9

$19

$30

How much do kennel assistant manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for kennel assistant manager in Santa Rosa, CA is $19.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $21.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a kennel assistant manager worth it?

A kennel assistant manager oversees daily operations of a kennel or animal care facility, managing staff, ensuring animal welfare, and maintaining cleanliness. The role offers hands-on work with animals, opportunities for advancement, and typically requires good organizational and communication skills. Compensation varies by location and experience but generally includes benefits such as flexible schedules and job stability.

What is the difference between Kennel Assistant Manager vs Kennel Technician?

AspectKennel Assistant ManagerKennel Technician
CertificationsBasic animal care, customer serviceAnimal handling, basic veterinary skills
Work EnvironmentSupervisory role in kennels, managing staffHands-on animal care, cleaning, feeding
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal shelters, kennels, pet care facilitiesVeterinary clinics, shelters, kennels
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Kennel Assistant Manager oversees daily operations and staff, focusing on management tasks, while the Kennel Technician primarily handles direct animal care and maintenance. Both roles are essential in kennel environments, but the Assistant Manager has additional supervisory responsibilities and a broader scope of duties.

What are the responsibilities of a kennel assistant manager?

A Kennel Assistant Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a kennel, ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of the animals in their care. They supervise staff, coordinate feeding, cleaning, and exercise routines, and monitor animal health, reporting any concerns to veterinarians or management. Additionally, they handle administrative tasks such as scheduling, inventory management, and communicating with pet owners. Strong organizational and leadership skills are essential for this role.

How to become a kennel assistant manager?

To become a kennel assistant manager, candidates typically need previous experience working with animals, such as as a kennel assistant or animal caregiver, along with strong organizational and leadership skills. Some employers may require a high school diploma or equivalent, and relevant certifications in animal care or first aid can be beneficial. Progression often involves gaining experience in kennel operations and demonstrating reliability and management abilities.

What are some common challenges faced by a kennel assistant manager, and how can they be effectively addressed?

A Kennel Assistant Manager often encounters challenges such as coordinating staff schedules, managing unexpected animal health issues, and ensuring high standards of cleanliness and care during busy periods. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are key to addressing these challenges. Developing clear protocols for animal care and emergency situations, as well as fostering a supportive team environment, can help mitigate stress and maintain smooth operations. Regular staff training and open feedback channels also contribute to a positive and efficient workplace.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kennel assistant manager?

To thrive as a Kennel Assistant Manager, you need experience in animal care, knowledge of animal behavior, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with some management experience. Familiarity with kennel management software, scheduling tools, and animal health monitoring systems is often required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate staff and ensure a safe, compassionate environment for animals. These abilities are crucial for maintaining operational efficiency, animal welfare, and team morale in a busy kennel setting.

Do you need a degree to be a kennel assistant manager?

A degree is not typically required to become a kennel assistant manager, but relevant experience in animal care, customer service, or management can be important. Many employers prioritize hands-on experience and skills over formal education for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Kennel Assistant Manager jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

For Kennel Assistant Manager jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Kennel Assistant Manager jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Kennel Assistant Manager jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Kennel Assistant Manager jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Kennel Assistant Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Kennel Assistant Manager job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,181 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Receptionist/Kennel Assistant

David & Karen Mccrystle

Healdsburg, CA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.


Job description

Job Description:

This dual role combines front of house client service with back of house animal care, requiring a versatile professional who can balance administrative duties with hands-on support.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Reception Duties: Acting as the primary point of contact for clients, managing the multi-line phone system, scheduling appointments, and handling check-in/check-out procedures with empathy.
  • Administrative Support: Maintaining accurate electronic medical records, processing financial transactions, and managing office corespondence.
  • Animal Care: Assisting with the safe handling and restraint of patients, monitoring animals in the kennel, and ensuring all patients are comfortable and stress-free.
  • Clinic Maintenance: Ensuring the reception area is clean and welcoming, and maintaining strict sanitation protocols in kennel areas, including cleaning cages, runs, and common spaces. Undertake additional responsibilities as assigned by management.
  • Team Coordination: Communicating effectively between the the front desk and medical staff to ensure a smooth flow of care throughout the day.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Reliable, professional, and able to work independently within defined responsibilities
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 50 lbs.
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time
  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • 1 year of experience in a veterinary hospital preferred
  • Strong organizational and multitasking skills to transition seamlessly between office and kennel tasks.
  • Exceptional communication skills and a compassionate approach to assisting clients and their pets.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, sometimes physically demanding environment.
  • Basic understanding of animal behavior and safety protocols. 

Schedule:

Monday-Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm (Lunch 12:00pm to 2:00pm)