Training and Behavior Support Specialist

Humane Society of Southern Arizona; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 22,386 - 26,174; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Employer retirement contributions

Free Pet Adoptions

Job summary

A leading animal welfare organization located in Tucson is seeking a Training and Behavior Support Specialist to deliver training curricula and support behavior modification for shelter pets. This role requires strong canine behavior knowledge and is ideal for candidates with experience in shelter settings. Competitive salary and a commitment to animal welfare are reflected in this full-time position.

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years of experience in animal behavior.
• Completion of Fear Free Shelter certification required.
• Previous work or volunteer experience in a shelter role.

Responsibilities

• Implement behavior assessments and modification plans for shelter animals.
• Provide public education through workshops and classes.
• Support adoptions team with dog introductions.

Skills

Canine behavior understanding

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Leadership skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Degree in animal behavior or related field

Tools

Animal shelter software

Job description

Training and Behavior Support Specialist

EOE Statement It is the policy of the Humane Society of Southern Arizona, Inc. to provide all persons with equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, marital status, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information, or any other factor protected by law.

Category Animal Care

Description

Job Purpose: The Training and Behavior Support position is responsible for delivering training curricula for public-facing clients to support pet retention and diversion, and support behavior modification programming for in-shelter pets.

Essential Functions:

• Shelter Behavior Program Oversight: Work closely with the Behavior Manager to ensure best practices are implemented in individuals’ treatment plans.
• Implement behavior assessments and modification plans for shelter animals.
• Maintain and update behavior documentation and shelter software records.
• Ensure timely sharing of behavioral observations and modifications with animal care and adoption teams.
• Support adoptions team with introductions of dogs to potential adopters and resident dogs when more in depth counseling or skill is required.
• Provide support including trainings to medical and operations staff to ensure behavior and welfare needs are implemented.

• Community Training Team Management: Provide public education through workshops, classes, and individualized consultations, focusing on pet diversion and retention.
• Ensure all community training programs reflect positive, evidence-based practices.
• Collaborate on outreach and events that promote responsible pet ownership and behavior education.
• Coordinates and or supports training and behavior programs such as PET VIP.

• General Responsibilities: Represent HSSA in media, events, and community functions as needed.
• Represent HSSA in a professional and positive manner.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

Work is performed at an animal shelter or community settings. Must be able to handle all sizes and activity levels of animals. Exposure to zoonotic diseases, fractious animals, loud noises, and outdoor weather.

Position Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Strong understanding of canine behavior and training methods.
• Previous work or volunteer experience in a shelter setting.
• Completion of Fear Free Shelter certification.
• Three years of experience in animal behavior.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Computer proficiency and familiarity with animal shelter software.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Degree in animal behavior or related field.
• Professional dog training certification (CPDT-KA, KPA, or similar) preferred.

Performance Factors and Skills:

• Ability to work independently and make critical decisions regarding animal welfare.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate across departments.
• Strong public speaking, teaching, and customer service abilities.
• Understanding of humane and ethical animal training principles.
• Commitment to HSSA’s mission and values.

Compensation & Benefits

Medical, dental, vision and life insurance. Employer retirement contributions, Optional Health Savings Account with employer contribution. Access to voluntary supplemental insurance. Free Pet Adoptions and staff discounts.

Salary Hiring Range: $16.25-19.00 Hourly

Position: Full-Time

Location: Humane Society of Southern AZ

About the Organization: The Humane Society of Southern Arizona (HSSA), founded in 1944, is a private, independent, non-profit 501(c)(3) animal welfare organization with the mission of acting with compassion and responsible stewardship through innovative programs that serve pets and the people who love them. HSSA is the largest charitable animal welfare and protection agency in Southern Arizona with 100+ employees and 1300 volunteers. In 2018, HSSA moved into a new state-of-the-art animal shelter and spay/neuter clinic.

This position is currently accepting applications.

Hiring Manager: Aldo Lebel

Location: Humane Society of Southern AZ

Openings: 1