Behavior Coordinator - Newington Pet Resource Center

Cthumane; Newington, Northern (CT, KY); Hybrid; USD 30,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefit Eligible

Job summary

Connecticut Humane Society is seeking a Behavior Coordinator for our Newington Shelter. The role focuses on developing behavior modification and enrichment plans to improve animal welfare and adoption readiness.

You will work with shelter leadership, volunteers, and staff to implement training and ensure consistent behavior protocols across the facility. The position is Full Time with benefits, located in Newington, CT.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in animal science or related field.
• 2–5 years of experience working in animal behavior.
• Knowledge of and hands-on experience in animal handling.
• Proficiency with computer and database systems.
• Ability to perform physical requirements including lifting up to 40 pounds, standing, bending, cleaning, and safely walking or controlling dogs and cats.
• Ability to work a weekend schedule.
• Valid driver’s license - as support of other locations will be necessary at times.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement individualized behavior modification and enrichment plans for dogs, cats, and other companion animals.
• Identify behavioral needs and proactively work with challenging cases that may require alternative placement.
• Provide training, guidance, coaching, and support to behavior technicians and shelter staff.
• Oversee and provide training for S.A.F.E.R. testing of dogs and handling assessments for selected cats.
• Ensure consistent use of behavior and training protocols throughout the shelter.
• Provide behavior consultations and support to adopters and others as needed.
• Create and lead training sessions for volunteers and staff, including animal handling and dog-walking techniques.
• Collaborate with shelter leadership and the broader team to continuously improve animal behavior and enrichment programs.

Skills

Animal behavior

Animal handling

Training

Communication

Teamwork

Customer service

Education

Associate degree in animal science

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

Job Details: Job Location: NEWINGTON, CT 06111, Salary Range: $22.00 - $26.00, Do you want to make a difference in the lives of animals every day? Are you passionate about animal behavior, enrichment, and helping shelter and owned pets thrive? The Connecticut Humane Society (CHS) is looking for a creative, compassionate, experienced Behavior Coordinator to join our Newington Shelter team.

For 145 years, CHS has been a leader in animal welfare across Connecticut. Every year, our dedicated team helps thousands of animals find safety, support, and loving homes. As our Behavior Coordinator, you’ll play a vital role in preparing animals for successful adoptions and improving their quality of life while they are in our care.

Why This Role Matters

You’ll be a driving force behind our shelter’s behavior and enrichment program, helping animals navigate shelter life, overcome behavioral challenges, and giving them the best possible chance for a successful transition into a home.

Working closely with Shelter Managers, behavior technicians, other shelter staff, and volunteers, you will:

• Develop and implement individualized behavior modification and enrichment plans for dogs, cats, and other companion animals.
• Identify behavioral needs and proactively work with challenging cases that may require alternative placement.
• Provide training, guidance, coaching, and support to behavior technicians and shelter staff.
• Oversee and provide training for S.A.F.E.R. testing of dogs and handling assessments for selected cats.
• Ensure consistent use of behavior and training protocols throughout the shelter.
• Provide behavior consultations and support to adopters and others as needed.
• Create and lead training sessions for volunteers and staff, including animal handling and dog-walking techniques.
• Collaborate with shelter leadership and the broader team to continuously improve animal behavior and enrichment programs.

Join a Team That Makes a Difference

At CHS, your expertise can directly change an animal’s future. If you’re ready to combine your knowledge of animal behavior with your passion for helping people and pets, we’d love to have you join our team.

What We’re Looking For

• Animal-focused: You have advanced knowledge of animal handling and behavior modification.
• A strong communicator: You can work effectively with people who have different communication styles and skill sets.
• Creative and solutions-oriented: You enjoy developing individualized approaches for animals with different needs.
• Team-minded: You collaborate well and are comfortable working closely with shelter leadership and staff.
• Customer-service oriented: You understand the importance of supporting adopters, volunteers, and coworkers.
• Adaptable: You can manage multiple priorities and thrive in a busy, hands-on environment.

Position Details

• Location: Newington, CT
• Position: Full Time, Benefit Eligible
• Schedule: Tuesday–Saturday, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
• Pay: $22.00–$26.00 per hour
• Status: Hourly / Non-Exempt

Connecticut Humane Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.

Qualifications

Required

• Associate’s degree in animal science or a related field.
• 2–5 years of experience working in animal behavior.
• Knowledge of and hands-on experience in animal handling.
• Proficiency with computer and database systems.
• Ability to perform the physical requirements of the position, including lifting up to 40 pounds, standing, bending, cleaning, and safely walking or controlling dogs and cats.
• Ability to work a weekend schedule.
• Valid driver's license - as support of other locations will be necessary at times.

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree.