Student - Animal Rescue League of NH Shelter Assistant (Work-Study Only)
Southern New Hampshire University is a team of innovators. World changers. Individuals who believe in progress with purpose. Since 1932, our people-centered strategy has defined us — and helped us grow a team that now serves over 180,000 learners worldwide.
Our mission to transform lives is made possible by talented people who bring diverse industry experience, backgrounds and skills to the university. And today, we're ready to expand our reach. All we need is you.
The opportunity
Southern New Hampshire University is seeking a student employee to fill the role of Shelter Assistant for our partner organization, Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire in Bedford, NH. The Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire (ARLNH) cares for over 2,000 animals each year. Our mission is made possible by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who work together to ensure every animal receives compassionate care during their time with us. As a Shelter Assistant, you'll play a vital role in the daily operations that keep our shelter running smoothly. This includes cleaning, doing laundry, organizing supplies, helping in our pet food pantry, and most importantly, helping provide a calm, healthy environment for the animals in our care. Our shelter serves as a temporary home for these animals, and we strive to make their stay as comfortable and low-stress as possible. This is a great opportunity for college students interested in animal care, behavior, or veterinary fields. You'll gain hands-on experience learning about animal behavior and stress signals, while supporting a meaningful cause. Join us in making a difference—one animal at a time.
Job Responsibilities
Shelter Assistants support the daily operations of the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire by assisting with a variety of essential shelter tasks and animal care routines. Responsibilities include:
- Assisting with animal care and shelter maintenance during morning and evening shifts
- Feeding animals and ensuring fresh water is always available
- Cleaning kennels, cat condos, and small animal enclosures to maintain a safe and sanitary environment.
- Doing laundry and organizing supplies to support daily shelter operations
- Sorting, organizing, and helping distribute donations, including food and supplies
- Supporting ARLNH’s Pet Food Pantry Program by helping organize and prepare food donations for families in need
- Assisting with evening closing procedures to ensure the building is secure and animals are settled for the night
- Performing other duties as assigned by ARLNH staff to ensure the well-being of animals and the smooth operation of the shelter
- This hands-on role is ideal for individuals who are detail-oriented, dependable, and passionate about animal welfare.
Minimum Qualifications
- Current enrollment in classes as part of a SNHU degree program
- Work study part of financial aid package
- Students with work study may be prioritized
- Reliable transportation
- Comfortable working with animals of all sizes and temperaments, as well as occasionally interacting with members of the public
- Ability to follow directions accurately and work independently with minimal supervision
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with staff, volunteers, and visitors Excellent organizational skills and keen attention to detail to support daily shelter operations
- Ability to safely lift and carry bags of pet food or supplies weighing up to 40 lbs
Learning Outcomes (NACE Competencies)
- Gain hands-on experience in the daily care and handling of a variety of animal species
- Develop strong organizational and time management skills through routine shelter operations
- Strengthen the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment
- Enhance communication and interpersonal skills through interactions with shelter staff, volunteers, and members of the community
- Build a solid foundation in animal welfare practices and shelter operations, valuable for future careers in veterinary care, animal behavior, or nonprofit work
Work Schedule
Flexible, daily between shelter hours 8-5pm
We believe real innovation comes from inclusion - where different experiences, perspectives and talents are celebrated. So if you're wondering whether SNHU is right for you, take the leap and apply. You might be just the person we're looking for.
If you have a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to fully engage in any part of the application or hiring process, please complete the Accommodation Request form or contact us at 603-626-9447. A member from the Employee Accommodation Support Center will be in contact with you within two business days to discuss your request.
Compensation
The hourly pay range for this position is $13.00 - $15.00. Actual offer will be based on skills, qualifications, experience and internal equity, in addition to relevant business considerations.