Humane Society Naples is seeking applicants for the full time position of Canine Behavior Specialist. This is an amazing opportunity for a person who has turned their passion and care for companion animals into a career. In this role, you would work with shelter dogs every day - and changing their lives for the better.
The Canine Behavior Specialist is responsible for enriching the lives of shelter dogs, improving adoptability of shelter dogs through training and other behavior modification using positive and minimally aversive techniques, and educating staff, volunteers, and the public on best practices in dog handling, training, care, and behavioral management.
Responsibilities
- Assist the Canine Behavior Manager with behavioral assessments, training, and management of dogs upon intake and throughout their stay
- Oversee and participate in canine socialization and playgroups
- Break up conflict between dogs safely and effectively
- Assist in selection dogs for offsite community activities
- Monitor behavioral health of dogs and report any issues
- Enter accurate behavior information into ShelterLuv database
- Counsel prospective dog adopters and facilitate adoption matches, particularly for dogs with special behavioral needs
- Assist Canine Behavior Manager in the development and implementation of dog handling and behavioral intervention protocols for staff, volunteers, foster caregivers, and new adopters
- Conduct basic handling, training, and behavior classes for staff, volunteers, foster caregivers, new adopters, and the community
- Provide stellar customer service to all who visit, call, volunteer, and donate
- Actively maintain knowledge of dog behavior and best practices in behavioral training and management
- Assist in tours, lectures, public education programs, and special events
- Develop a respectful working relationship with staff, volunteers, vendors, and companion animal residents
Requirements
- Minimum 2 years of experience caring for and handling companion animals, particularly dogs, in an animal shelter, veterinary clinic, or other professional animal care setting
- Ability to handle dogs and occasional other companion animals of all sizes, ages, temperaments and needs safely and appropriately
- Extensive knowledge of canine health, behavior, socialization, and husbandry/care/enrichment best practices
- A CPDT-KA, Fear Free, or Fear Free Shelter certification is preferred, but not required
- Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence
- Engaging public speaking skills
- Coaching and training skills
- Adaptable and flexible
- Computer proficiency and ability to quickly learn new software
- Ability to maintain a positive and professional demeanor at all times
Compensation: $19.00 per hour, eligible for paid overtime. Paid weekly.
Benefits Package:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off, including paid parental leave
- $25,000 life insurance policy
- Affordable supplemental insurance plans (disability, accident, etc.)
- 403(b) retirement plan; matching contributions after one year of service
- Discounts on veterinary services
Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. HSN values diversity and wants to increase the diversity of our team. We are an equal opportunity employer.
Application Instructions:
- Apply online at https://hsnaples.org/careers
- If you have technical issues or questions, please email hr@hsnaples.org
- No phone calls or walk-ins please
Humane Society Naples is SWFL's premiere no-kill shelter for cats, dogs, and other small companion animals. The mission of Humane Society Naples is to shelter animals in times of need, locate life-long homes, and advocate for responsible pet ownership. With 3 locations in Naples, FL, we offer a wide range of career opportunities, including in animal care, veterinary medicine, customer service, community services, administration, and fundraising. If you are team-oriented, compassionate, and are looking for a meaningful career in which you can make a difference, we invite you to consider our career opportunities.
