Shelter Animal Behavior Specialist

Joybound People & Pets; Walnut Creek (CA); On-site; USD 97,423,872 - 106,020,096; Full time

Job summary

Joybound People & Pets in Walnut Creek, CA is seeking a Shelter Animal Trainer to develop and implement behavior modification plans for priority animals, including under-socialized dogs and cats. You will assess behavior, design adoption-ready plans, support foster volunteers, maintain records across software systems, and help ensure humane handling, safety, and compassionate care for all animals.

This full-time role requires teamwork, strong communication, and a commitment to Joybound’s mission

Qualifications

• Experience using positive reinforcement as primary method of animal behavior modification.
• Shelter training experience with dogs and cats; ability to coach groups and individuals.
• Experience in one-on-one training and behavior modification sessions.
• Develop and write treatment plans for shelter animals; supervise volunteers.

Responsibilities

• Assist in behavior assessment for dogs and cats in the shelter.
• Develop adoption show and in-shelter management plans.
• Maintain records of assessments, status, training and management plans.
• Provide training and mentoring to shelter volunteers and team members.
• Support humane handling and safety; promote welfare for all animals.

Skills

Positive reinforcement training

Behavior assessment

Communication with volunteers

Team collaboration

Observation & record-keeping

Education

BA/AA in Animal Sciences or related

Canine/Cat behavior coursework

CPDT-KA or CBCC-KA preferred

Tools

Collars

Harness

Muzzles

Cages and cages equipment

Job description

Joybound People & Pets in Walnut Creek, CA is seeking a Shelter Animal Trainer to develop and implement behavior modification plans for priority animals, including under-socialized dogs and cats. You will assess behavior, design adoption-ready plans, support foster volunteers, maintain records across software systems, and help ensure humane handling, safety, and compassionate care for all animals.

This full-time role requires teamwork, strong communication, and a commitment to Joybound’s mission