The Foster Coordinator supports the daily operations of IndyHumane’s foster program by coordinating animal placements, maintaining communication with foster families, and ensuring accurate tracking of animals in care. This role plays a critical part in lifesaving efforts by helping place over one thousand animals into foster homes annually and ensuring fosters feel supported, informed, and prepared throughout their experience. 

Foster Placement & Coordination

• Review foster applications and match animals with appropriate homes 

• Schedule foster pick-ups and ensure all supplies, medications, and instructions are prepared 

• Maintain and update foster tracking systems (e.g., Trello, spreadsheets) 

Foster Communication & Support

• Serve as a primary point of contact for foster families via email, phone, and text 

• Respond to routine questions related to care, behavior, and minor medical concerns 

• Escalate urgent or complex concerns to medical or behavior teams 

• Provide timely, professional, and supportive communication 

Check-Ins & Progress Monitoring

• Conduct and track scheduled foster check-ins (3-day and biweekly) 

• Send reminders and follow up on report cards 

• Review submissions and flag concerns 

• Ensure all animals are accounted for and progressing appropriately 

Scheduling & Appointment Coordination

• Manage foster-related appointments (returns, boosters, medical visits) using scheduling systems 

• Coordinate with medical and admissions teams for efficient animal flow 

• Assist fosters with booking or adjusting appointments 

Animal Movement & Returns

• Coordinate foster returns, transfers, and adoption-ready movement 

• Ensure proper documentation and communication across departments 

• Identify animals ready for adoption or in need of additional support 

Data Entry & Program Tracking

• Maintain accurate records for foster animals, placements, and outcomes 

• Track animals needing foster placement and update internal systems 

• Support reporting needs for the foster program 

Foster Supplies & Resources

• Prepare and distribute supplies (food, medications, enrichment items) 

• Ensure fosters leave with all necessary materials and instructions 

• Maintain organization of supply areas 

Program Support & Collaboration

• Collaborate with medical, admissions, behavior, and volunteer teams 

• Assist in identifying animals in need of foster placement 

• Support overall foster program operations as assigned 

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent 

• Experience working or volunteering in animal care (shelter, rescue, or veterinary setting preferred) 

• Strong verbal and written communication skills 

• Excellent organizational and time-management skills 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and basic database systems 

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively 

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, emotionally demanding environment 

• Ability to work with dogs and cats of all sizes and temperaments 

• Availability to work some evenings or weekends as needed 

Required Skills & Competencies

• Compassion for animal welfare and commitment to lifesaving efforts 

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously 

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills 

• Professional, empathetic communication style 

• Reliability and accountability 

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds 

• Ability to stand, walk, and lift for extended periods 

• Ability to work in a shelter environment with exposure to noise, odors, and animals

IndyHumane - Equal Opportunity Employer

This position description does not constitute a contract of employment and IndyHumane may exercise our employment-at-will rights at any time.

JOB CODE: 1000012