Assesses the behavior of sheltered animals, identifying behavioral concerns, special needs, and the like. Establishes appropriate training and placement plans in partnership with the Lifesaving Programs Coordinator, and works with the Lifesaving Programs Coordinator to achieve appropriate placement as expeditiously as possible. Provides animal behavior-related information, consultation and/or training to staff, volunteers, fosters, adopters, rescue/transfer partners, and the public.

(Duties may include, but are not limited to the following)

Assesses animal behavior through varied and direct interactions, consideration of known histories, and observed behaviors. Records assessment findings in animals' shelter records, and discusses findings with and highlights findings for the Lifesaving Programs Coordinator, Shelter Operations Manager, and Director of SCRAPS. Communicates with the Lifesaving Programs Coordinator about animals in need of special adoptive placement, foster or rescue placement, and/or professional behavioral training or rehabilitation.

Provides thorough and correct behavioral information and consultation to fosters, adopters, rescue/transfer partners, and others to ensure appropriate and responsible animal placement and reduce foster and adoption returns.

Compiles instructions for behavioral training and rehabilitation for specific dogs, and educates and trains involved staff and volunteers. Works directly with individual dogs to improve, monitor, and continually and consistently assess behavior; dialogues with the Lifesaving Programs Coordinator and partner dog training professionals to address particular animal needs.

Works with shelter staff to determine and realize appropriate short- and long-term placement (e.g., foster, transfer) for individual animals.

Handles and interacts with shelter animals to take photos, create videos, and construct biographies, and provides the Lifesaving Programs Coordinator with such materials in a timely fashion.

Leads, facilitates, and provides support for shelter enrichment activities, including dog playgroups, to reduce animals' in-shelter stress and evaluate personality; educates and trains volunteers to assist with and undertake enrichment activities.

Maintains positive relationships with volunteers, foster parents, rescue/transfer partners, and partner dog training professionals.

Identifies, mentors, trains, coordinates, and supervises volunteer dog handlers. Develops and maintains positive volunteer relationships.

Communicates with adopters, fosters, and transfer partners about animals in their care and provides necessary support. Monitors and responds appropriately to emails.

Keeps current on the science regarding animal behavior in animal shelters and behavioral assessment methods and tools. Keeps current on progressive developments in animal fostering, in-shelter enrichment, and the like.

Coordinates behavioral and animal training sessions/classes with volunteers and/or community members when appropriate or desirable. May conduct animal behavior workshops and develop behavior-related handouts.

Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: High school diploma or equivalent. Six months of volunteer or paid experience in the behavioral evaluation, assessment, training, and/or handling of animals preferred.

LICENSE: Valid driver's license at time of application and maintained throughout term of employment.

NOTE: Requires successful completion of criminal background check.

Working knowledge of:

• animal behavior, with an emphasis on in-shelter behavior;
• appropriate training techniques.

Ability to:

• perform moderately strenuous and repetitive physical tasks in the handling and assessment of animals (standing, stooping, pulling, pushing, kneeling, carrying, etc.)
• work with and handle animals in a patient, sensitive, humane manner under a variety of circumstances.
• take direction and follow protocols and procedures consistently and conscientiously.
• stay focused and polite even in stressful situations.
• exercise good judgment in animal handling and respond quickly when necessary.
• be comfortable with the possibility of sustaining injury in the handling and assessing of animals.
• assess and problem solve behavioral concerns in dogs and apply humane training techniques with positive reinforcement methods.
• multi-task efficiently and effectively in the face of competing priorities.
• maintain accurate and detailed documentation; compose relevant reports.
• communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• establish and maintain cooperative relationships with the public, volunteers, fosters, partner agencies, partner dog training professionals, and co-workers.
• understand and follow written and oral directions.
• handle the emotional aspect of work in an animal shelter environment, including decision-making about euthanasia.
• work with people and dogs in a group class environment.

Skilled in:

• use of personal computers and software related to performing the duties of the job.