Cleaning Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Title : Cleaning Assistant

FLSA Status : Non-Exempt

Department : Shelter Operations

Your Mission :

As a Cleaning Assistant, you will help advance the mission of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa by ensuring a clean, safe, and healthy environment for the animals, staff, volunteers, and visitors. Through daily cleaning and disinfection tasks, laundry and dishwashing duties, and upkeep of shelter spaces, you will directly contribute to disease control and the overall wellbeing of the animals in our care.

What You’ll Do :

In this role, you will follow established disease control protocols to clean and disinfect kennels, carriers, grooming areas, windows, walls, doors, and floors throughout the shelter. You will handle laundry from washing and drying to folding and organizing in proper storage areas, and you will wash and sanitize dishes, ensuring all are ready for use. You’ll operate essential equipment such as washers, dryers, dish sanitizers, and floor machines, and you’ll help maintain these tools in good working order by reporting any repair or replacement needs. You will keep workspaces tidy, disinfect them regularly, and restock supplies as needed. By promoting a safe, sanitary, and organized shelter environment, you will support both animal health and the ARL’s commitment to high standards of care.

What You Bring :

You have a high school diploma or GED and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail. You bring reliability, initiative, and the ability to follow established protocols. You demonstrate professionalism and courtesy in interactions with staff, volunteers, and visitors, and you are committed to supporting the ARL’s mission through your work.

Working Conditions :

This position requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work on your feet for extended periods of time. At times, you may work outdoors in extreme heat or cold. The work environment may expose you to animal waste, odors, loud noise, and potential contact with animal-related diseases, bites, or scratches.

Why Work at the ARL?

Every role at the ARL makes a difference. As a Cleaning Assistant, your work ensures that animals awaiting adoption are cared for in a clean, safe, and healthy environment. You’ll be part of a mission-driven team that values compassion, collaboration, and dedication. Here, your daily contributions help create brighter futures for animals and the people who love them.

Employment in this position is at-will, meaning that either the employee or the ARL may terminate the employment relationship at any time.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and / or applicable state regulations, the Animal Rescue League will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations.