Entry-Level Animal Behavior & Care Associate

GetHired, Inc.; Calgary; On-site; CAD 36,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and dental benefits

Vision coverage

Wellness Spending Account

RRSP contributions matching

Paid vacation and sick time

Job summary

Calgary Humane Society is seeking a Behaviour & Animal Care Support Associate in Calgary. This entry-level role focuses on implementing enrichment plans and behaviour support under the Behaviour Team, while maintaining high standards of daily animal care.

You will learn handling, observation, and behavioural support in a shelter setting, with mentorship and structured training throughout. The position is full-time, with overtime flexibility and a strong emphasis on animal welfare.

Qualifications

• Minimum high school diploma.
• Accreditation preferred: KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA, or IAABC.
• Minimum one year of animal care experience (professional/volunteer).
• Genuine concern for animal welfare and humane training methods.
• Ability to interpret and analyze animal behaviour.
• Strong communication skills—verbal and written.
• Public speaking confidence and conflict-management skills.
• Resilience in stressful situations and the ability to stay professional.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Intermediate proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Overtime flexibility as required.
• Valid Class 5 Driver’s License with a clean abstract (3+ years driving).
• Police information/criminal record check required at own expense.

Responsibilities

• Carry out individualized behaviour and training plans as outlined by the Behaviour Team.
• Observe and document animal behaviour during training and enrichment sessions.
• Prepare and deliver daily enrichment, mental stimulation, and stress reduction strategies.
• Participate in Behaviour Rounds and shadow assessments to learn foundational behaviour concepts.
• Monitor signs of stress, fear, frustration, and success in training; escalate concerns.
• Support safe, low-stress handling practices under supervision, using desensitization and positive reinforcement.
• Assist with daily cleaning, feeding, and monitoring of kennels and animals on behaviour plans.
• Ensure kennels have enrichment and housing supports the welfare needs.
• Support animal moves and transitions that intersect with behavioural goals.
• Communicate welfare observations with the Animal Care and Behaviour Teams.
• Participate in structured mentorship and training; attend onboarding and ongoing training.

Education

High school diploma

KPA-CTP/CPDT-KA/IAABC accreditation preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Calgary Humane Society is seeking a Behaviour & Animal Care Support Associate in Calgary. This entry-level role focuses on implementing enrichment plans and behaviour support under the Behaviour Team, while maintaining high standards of daily animal care.

You will learn handling, observation, and behavioural support in a shelter setting, with mentorship and structured training throughout. The position is full-time, with overtime flexibility and a strong emphasis on animal welfare.