Training & Behavior Support Specialist

HumanePro; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Humane Society of Southern Arizona is seeking a Training and Behavior Support professional to deliver curricula for public clients and support in-shelter behavior modification programming. You will implement assessments, maintain records, and collaborate with care and adoption teams to promote welfare and pet retention.

The role requires strong behavioral knowledge, shelter experience, and ability to train staff and volunteers, with public education responsibilities and representation at

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

Responsibilities

• Deliver training curricula for public-facing clients to support pet retention and diversion.
• 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 trainings to medical and operations staff to ensure behavior and welfare needs are implemented.
• Represent HSSA in media, events, and community functions as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Canine behavior

Shelter experience

Public speaking

Leadership

Communication

Animal welfare

Education

High school diploma

Fear Free Shelter certification

CPDT-KA / KPA certification

Degree in animal behavior

Tools

Shelter software

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.

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

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