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Positions

Jobs & Postdocs
Posted Apr 23

Humane Animal Rescue

JOB DESCRIPTION

 

DIRECTOR OF BEHAVIOR PROGRAM

 

Oversees enrichment and behavior modification programs for animals in the shelter and in foster homes; performs, and trains staff to perform, canine behavior assessments; provides adoption counseling and post-adoption support regarding behavioral issues. Manages the Behavior Specialists. 

 

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

 

  • Develops and implements enrichment solutions and behavior plans for animals in shelter to enrich their environment, reduce stress, and improve or maintain behavior and adoptability. 
  • Conducts behavior evaluations and assessments, including the Match Up II canine behavior assessment, and makes placement recommendations based on these assessments.
  • Identifies management solutions for animals in shelter to prevent behavior concerns and to maximize staff and volunteer safety; works closely with staff and volunteers to monitor behavior on an ongoing basis during the animal’s time in the shelter.
  • Trains staff on behavior assessments, enrichment activities and behavior modification techniques.
  • Writes behavior waivers for animals displaying higher-risk behaviors.
  • Assists fosters with behavior support to improve adoptability while in foster care.
  • Manages the canine enrichment and behavior modification volunteer program; coordinates the education and training of volunteers who work with the shelter dogs.
  • Dispenses informational materials, articles, and videos to staff and volunteers to further their understanding of animal body language and behavior.
  • Works with other departments to develop, improve, and maintain programs within the shelter that are up-to-date with current behavior recommendations.
  • Treats all animals humanely, properly, and with compassion at all times, regardless of the situation or circumstance and promote a humane and caring attitude toward all animals.
  • Maintain positive relationships with co-workers, managers, directors, clients, and stakeholders.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

 

MANAGERIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

 

  • Directly supervise Behavior Specialists staff to ensure effective teamwork and safety. As Behavior Program Director, you are responsible for the behavior and effectiveness of the team as a whole.
  • Provide the Behavior Specialists with ongoing supervision, mentoring and training so they are able to properly and skillfully complete their job requirements. 
  • Handle personnel issues according to Humane Animal Rescue policies and procedures in a timely manner and with the help of the Chief Administrative Officer when necessary.  
  • Provide feedback on employee performance and goals that is both realistic and rewarding.

 

 

QUALIFICATIONS

 

  • Thorough knowledge of animal behavior modification and evaluation techniques, including learning theory.
  • Ability to handle or restrain large and sometimes dangerous animals.
  • Ability to train using positive reinforcement training techniques.
  • Ability to prepare and maintain records, data entry for reporting, and use of a computer.
  • Ability to pay attention to details, organize, and follow through on assigned tasks.
  • Ability to communicate effectively through verbal and written communication.
  • Ability to remain patient and professional in dealing with customers and vendors. Contacts with potential adopters and pet owners with behavior concerns require basic courtesy, tact, and effectiveness in dealing with others, including requesting or providing information, taking a behavior history, asking questions, or obtaining clarification.
  • Ability to use standard office equipment such as a personal computer using MS Word, Excel, database, and other related software; two-way radio; and animal restraint equipment.

 

Travel:

Travel between North Shore and East End locations may be required from time to time; employee will be based at one shelter but may need to assist at the other location as needed.  Some travel for special circumstances may be required on a case-by-case basis. 

 

Required Education and Experience:  

  • Bachelor’s degree in animal or social work/psychology area preferred.
  • CPDT or other certification from a nationally-recognized certifying body that endorses the methods recommended by of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB).
  • Demonstrated knowledge of animal behavior and enrichment, and at least five years of experience working with animals in a shelter setting; or equivalent combinations of education and experience.
  • Experience teaching adults in seminar-type setting is preferred.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license with a clean driving history.
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