Dog Behavior Specialist — Shelter Enrichment & Training

Great Plains SPCA; Merriam (KS); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Generous PTO and paid holidays

Mental health support

Job summary

Great Plains SPCA in Merriam, KS is seeking a Canine Behavior Specialist. The role focuses on behavior assessments, enrichment, and safe-handling for at-risk animals within the shelter.

Reports to the Animal Behavior Manager and works with the Behavior Team. Responsibilities include designing behavior modification plans, conducting adoptions and foster consultations, and coordinating playgroups and training for staff and volunteers.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED preferred.
• 2-3 years of experience in animal welfare.
• Experience handling animals of various temperaments.

Responsibilities

• Conduct behavior assessments for dogs upon intake and shelter stay.
• Create individualized behavior modification plans to reduce stress.
• Perform dog-to-dog introductions and communicate results to departments.
• Assist in coordinating canine playgroups and staff training.
• Conduct behavior consultations for adopters and foster families.

Skills

Empathy

Teamwork

Communication

Safety-handling

Problem-solving

Education

High School diploma or GED preferred

2-3 years of experience in animal welfare

Tools

Dog handling experience

Behavior assessment tools

Job description

Great Plains SPCA in Merriam, KS is seeking a Canine Behavior Specialist. The role focuses on behavior assessments, enrichment, and safe-handling for at-risk animals within the shelter.

Reports to the Animal Behavior Manager and works with the Behavior Team. Responsibilities include designing behavior modification plans, conducting adoptions and foster consultations, and coordinating playgroups and training for staff and volunteers.