Training & Behavior Support Specialist

Humanepro; Tucson (AZ); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Humane Society of Southern Arizona is seeking a dedicated Training and Behavior Support professional to lead shelter behavior programming, deliver public education, and support adopter success. The role focuses on evidence-based behavior modification, documentation, and cross-team collaboration in a busy animal shelter and community settings.

You will work closely with the Behavior Manager, implement assessments, train staff, and expand outreach through workshops and consultations, contributing

Qualifications

• Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent and strong understanding of canine behavior and training methods.
• Experience in a shelter setting and Fear Free Shelter certification are required or preferred.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills, plus computer proficiency with shelter software.

Responsibilities

• Oversee shelter behavior program in partnership with Behavior Manager.
• Implement behavior assessments and modification plans for shelter animals.
• Maintain and update behavior documentation and shelter software records.
• Ensure timely sharing of behavioral observations with care and adoption teams.
• Support adoptions with introductions of dogs to adopters and resident dogs when counseling is needed.
• Provide trainings to medical and operations staff on behavior and welfare needs.
• Lead community training through workshops, classes, and consultations on pet diversion and retention.
• Coordinate training programs such as PET VIP and other outreach events.
• Represent HSSA in media, events, and community functions as needed.

Skills

Canine behavior

Shelter experience

Communication skills

Leadership

Fear Free certification

Animal behavior experience

Computer skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Degree in animal behavior or related field

Fear Free Shelter certification

Tools

Shelter software

Job description

HumanePro's biweekly e-newsletter delivers the latest news, training, education opportunities and special offers to help you in your work with animals.

Job 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.

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.

This is a full time job

Contact Information

Job Contact Details

Name blake ingledue
Title people & culture business partner
Email Address [e-mail]
Website http://www.hssaz.org

Closing Date: Wednesday, December 9, 2026

Posting Date: September 9, 2026

Closing Date: December 9, 2026