Paul Sootkoos
Colorado Springs,CO
Summary
Dynamic professional with a proven track record in enhancing animal welfare at the Humane Society of Boulder Valley through innovative problem-solving and effective team collaboration. Skilled in fundraising and recordkeeping, I excel in leadership roles, demonstrating empathy and a positive attitude. Achieved significant improvements in care protocols and adoption rates, showcasing a commitment to excellence and a passion for making a difference.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Volunteer
Humane Society of Boulder Valley
Boulder, CO
02.2006 - 12.2010
- Monitored animal activities to ensure physical and psychological well-being.
- Created records detailing medical treatments provided to animals in the facility.
- Facilitated enrichment activities such as providing toys or introducing new scents into their environment.
- Established relationships with local rescue organizations to support adoption efforts.
- Collaborated with veterinarians to develop treatment plans for sick or injured animals.
- Researched new technologies or methods that could improve the quality of life for animals in the facility.
- Assisted with fundraising events by organizing volunteers and preparing promotional materials.
- Collaborated with other departments within the organization on special projects or initiatives related to animal welfare.
- Developed protocols for the care of animals in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Contributed innovative ideas and solutions to enhance team performance and outcomes.
- Collaborated closely with team members to achieve project objectives and meet deadlines.
- Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
- Worked effectively in team environments to make the workplace more productive.
- Completed routine maintenance and repair.
- Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
- Worked successfully with diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
Engineering Technician
Datacolor
Lawrenceville, NJ
02.2001 - 03.2006
- Provided support and guidance to colleagues to maintain a collaborative work environment.
- Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
- Completed routine maintenance and repair.
- Conducted testing of software and systems to ensure quality and reliability.
- Worked successfully with diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
- Updated and maintained project documentation, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- Assembled and tested components, wiring and systems, locating and correcting faults to optimize production results.
- Fabricated parts as required by engineering designs or blueprints.
- Calibrated and maintained engineering instruments to ensure accurate measurements and testing results.
- Ran operational tests on systems and equipment to reinforce proper processes and remedy malfunctions.
- Assisted engineers in the testing and evaluation of mechanical components.
Veterinary Technician
Princeton Animal Hospital
West Windsor, NJ
05.1989 - 01.2003
- Addressed healthcare needs of animals by coordinating with veterinarians and following orders.
- Scrubbed, counted and packed surgical instruments and drapes for autoclave sterilization.
- Recorded observations and baseline measurements to maintain accurate medical records.
- Cleaned and maintained equipment used in veterinary practices such as cages, examination tables, autoclaves.
- Listened to clients' questions and concerns regarding pets and delivered timely responses and information on treatment protocols and procedures.
- Obtained relevant health history and information from clients to maintain medical charts.
- Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
- Provided emotional support to owners whose pets were ill or had passed away due to a terminal illness.
- Supported veterinarians to drive quality care, advocate for pets and educate clients.
- Collected samples of bodily fluids to analyze for parasites or other diseases.
- Performed ongoing clinical research and wrote notes to help vets with article writing.
- Provided postoperative care for animals recovering from surgery including providing pain management treatments.
- Participated in educational seminars related to veterinary medicine topics in order to stay up-to-date on current trends and best practices.
- Removed waste from kennels, runs and exercise areas and placed in trash receptacles or in-ground septic systems.
Legislative Aide
Office of Legislative Services, State of NJ
Trenton, NJ
01.1996 - 06.1999
- Participated in and took extensive notes during weekly meetings with professionals.
- Compiled data from various sources in order to create detailed reports for legislators.
- Assessed public opinion towards pending legislation in order to provide up-to-date feedback to lawmakers.
- Handled phone calls, visitors and professional correspondence for multiple staff members and departments.
- Completed tasks ahead of deadlines and devised new methods that streamlined administrative processes.
- Tracked legislation and other developments in assigned issue areas and briefed members.
- Reviewed and edited legislative documents for accuracy and clarity.
- Attended various committee meetings and hearings and acted as liaison with committee and agency staff.
- Assisted members of the legislative body in researching and drafting proposed legislation.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Communications
University of Colorado At Boulder
Boulder, COSkills
- Fundraising
- Recordkeeping
- Attention to detail
- [State] Driver's license
- Leadership qualities
- Positive attitude
- Multitasking and organization
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Flexible schedule
- Public relations
- Equipment installation
- Empathy and patience
- Conflict resolution
- Customer service
- Clear communication
- Relationship building
Affiliations
- voracious reader
- writing
- rock climbimg
- hiking
Accomplishments
- Acknowledged by Governor Christie Todd whitman for volunteer work as a lifeguard at Princeton YWCA and in multiple saves of near drownings
- Deans List for ongoing Asociates Degree for Paralegal Studies
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Volunteer
Humane Society of Boulder Valley
02.2006 - 12.2010
Engineering Technician
Datacolor
02.2001 - 03.2006
Legislative Aide
Office of Legislative Services, State of NJ
01.1996 - 06.1999
Veterinary Technician
Princeton Animal Hospital
05.1989 - 01.2003
Some College (No Degree) - Communications
University of Colorado At Boulder