Canine Enrichment & Behavior Lead

City of Columbia; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Columbia is seeking a Behavior and Enrichment Coordinator to oversee the behavioral health and enrichment of dogs at Columbia Animal Services. The role involves creating and implementing behavior plans, supervising play groups, and guiding staff and volunteers in enrichment activities.

The position requires shelter experience, dog training, and a valid SC Driver’s License, with responsibilities spanning clerical duties and daily facility operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum one year of experience in an animal shelter or related environment.
• Minimum one year professional dog training or shelter behavior/enrichment experience.
• Experience with organized dog playgroups, preferably Dogs Playing for Life.
• Valid South Carolina Class D Driver’s License.

Responsibilities

• Communicates with management to create, update, and implement behavioral protocols for individual animals.
• Assists with training of kennel staff, primarily in regards to animal handling and enrichment.
• Assists with training of volunteers involved in behavior and enrichment programs.
• Identifies dogs that could benefit from alternative placement planning, such as rescue and foster.
• Coordinates and oversee daily play groups for out-of-kennel enrichment opportunities.
• Works with Supervisor and Volunteer Coordinator to ensure enrichment takes place daily.
• Creates individualized enrichment plans for dogs needing special care.
• Observes kennel stress and behavioral decline and addresses issues promptly.
• Provides input for behavioral euthanasia assessments based on observed behaviors.
• Performs routine clerical duties and maintains facility records; assists with inventory and supplies.

Skills

Dog handling

Enrichment planning

Leadership training

Behavior assessment

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Computer software

Job description

City of Columbia is seeking a Behavior and Enrichment Coordinator to oversee the behavioral health and enrichment of dogs at Columbia Animal Services. The role involves creating and implementing behavior plans, supervising play groups, and guiding staff and volunteers in enrichment activities.

The position requires shelter experience, dog training, and a valid SC Driver’s License, with responsibilities spanning clerical duties and daily facility operations.