Behavior and Enrichment Specialist

$33,280 - $37,440/Yr

Mckamey Animal Center - Chattanooga, TN

Full-time - Entry Level

Chattanooga, TN

About the position

The Behavior and Enrichment Specialist at McKamey Animal Center plays a crucial role in ensuring the emotional and behavioral well-being of sheltered animals, primarily dogs. This position supports the Behavior and Enrichment Manager in assessing animal behavior, implementing enrichment programs, and facilitating the adoption process. The specialist collaborates with staff and volunteers to enhance the adoptability of animals and provides training on humane animal handling and behavior management. The role requires compassion and transparency in discussions about animal welfare and involves direct interaction with the public to address behavior challenges.

Responsibilities

• Follow established protocols for assessing the behavior of sheltered animals to determine proper placement pathways.
• Participate in training and behavioral modification efforts to increase the adoptability of sheltered animals.
• Provide enrichment for sheltered animals according to established protocols.
• Assist with the movement of animals within the shelter to ensure space for incoming animals.
• Support the public in preventing and resolving behavior challenges that may lead to relinquishment.
• Help train staff, volunteers, and the public on safe and humane animal handling and behavior topics.
• Assist staff and volunteers in their job responsibilities related to animal behavior and enrichment.
• Maintain compliance with the Association of Shelter Veterinarians' Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters.
• Accurately maintain records, behavioral statistics, and other data.
• Ensure high standards of professionalism and customer service in all interactions.
• Work closely with veterinary and animal care staff to ensure animal health and welfare.
• Support humane euthanasia of animals unsuited for placement.
• Assist with daily care, movement, and cleaning of sheltered animals.

Requirements

• Demonstrable knowledge of basic domestic animal care and safe/humane animal handling.
• Strong animal handling skills and understanding of animal health, care, and welfare issues.
• Must be computer savvy.
• Ability to maintain composure in a stressful work environment.
• Ability to make sound judgments and work independently and in a team setting.
• Proven organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to relate positively with veterinarians, shelter leadership, co-workers, and the public.
• Ability to effectively train and mentor others.
• Minimum of 1 year dog training/handling experience required.

Nice-to-haves

• Candidates with or working towards CPDT, IAABC, or other professional certification in animal behavior/training.
• Expertise in cat training/behavior desirable.
• Fear free certification highly desirable (required within first 90 days).

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee discount
• Professional development assistance
• Flexible schedule
• Retirement plan