Animal Behavior Manager - Shelter Enrichment Lead

The QTI Group; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The QTI Group, in partnership with Dane County Humane Society (DCHS), seeks an Animal Behavior Manager to lead the Behavior Department and oversee behavioral care for shelter animals in residence. You will design in-house behavior modification plans and ensure daily enrichment, training, and welfare across dogs and cats.

Responsibilities include supervising the Behavior team, conducting assessments for placement, and coordinating with other departments to ensure proper flow and humane outcomes.

Qualifications

• Requires BA/BS in animal behavior or related field; MS preferred.
• Certification in animal behavior/training from ABS, IAABC, CCPDT is required.
• 5+ years’ experience working with animals in captivity (shelters or zoos).
• 2+ years’ management experience; shelter experience preferred.
• Expertise in dog behavior is particularly required.
• Strong leadership, accountability, and communication skills.
• Sincere commitment to positive, science-based training and welfare.

Responsibilities

• Build alignment and a high-performance culture within the Behavior team; foster engagement with new strategies and goals.
• Review incoming animal behavior profiles and collaborate on pathway planning for new intakes.
• Oversee evaluation processes for shelter dogs and assist with placement, foster, rescue or euthanasia decisions.
• Attend daily rounds; create SOPs for common behavior concerns; tailor plans for each dog/cat.
• Ensure partnerships with rescue groups and provide enrichment opportunities; track progress and benchmarks.
• Oversee dog training classes for the public and staff; develop volunteer training and positive reinforcement protocols.
• Coordinate surrender, adoption, foster, and post-adoption counseling with other departments.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Behavior modification

Communication

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's in animal behavior or related field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

The QTI Group, in partnership with Dane County Humane Society (DCHS), seeks an Animal Behavior Manager to lead the Behavior Department and oversee behavioral care for shelter animals in residence. You will design in-house behavior modification plans and ensure daily enrichment, training, and welfare across dogs and cats.

Responsibilities include supervising the Behavior team, conducting assessments for placement, and coordinating with other departments to ensure proper flow and humane outcomes.