Canine Behavior Associate — Shelter Rehab & Training

ASPCA; Putnam Lake (NY); On-site; USD 43,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Professional development

Job summary

The ASPCA’s Recovery & Rehabilitation Center in Pawling, NY is seeking a dedicated Behavior Associate to join a collaborative animal welfare team. You will begin with Shelter Behavior Apprenticeship training, then advance to more advanced roles as you gain experience and demonstrate shelter behavior expertise.

Responsibilities include conducting behavior evaluations, implementing plans, socialization, and maintaining records while traveling up to 20% and flexing to a varied schedule.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 6 months hands‑on experience with dogs; shelter experience preferred.
• Sofia Yin’s Low Stress Handling University Silver‑Level certification required within six months.
• Fear Free Shelter certification required within 60 days of hire.
• Shelter Behavior Apprenticeship completion within 1 year of hire.

Responsibilities

• Provide a safe environment for animals using low‑stress handling techniques.
• Carry out behavior modification protocols and document sessions.
• Assist with behavior evaluations, playgroups, intake, and daily shelter duties.
• Monitor behavioral health and communicate observations to staff.
• Maintain behavioral health records and contribute to meetings.

Skills

Communication skills

MS Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Education

High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent experience

Sofia Yin Low Stress Handling University Silver

Fear Free Shelter certification

Tools

Shelter software/Salesforce

Job description

The ASPCA’s Recovery & Rehabilitation Center in Pawling, NY is seeking a dedicated Behavior Associate to join a collaborative animal welfare team. You will begin with Shelter Behavior Apprenticeship training, then advance to more advanced roles as you gain experience and demonstrate shelter behavior expertise.

Responsibilities include conducting behavior evaluations, implementing plans, socialization, and maintaining records while traveling up to 20% and flexing to a varied schedule.