Animal Behavior Caseworker

Animal Behavior Caseworker

The Animal Behavior Casework contributes to the physical and emotional health of LifeLine Animal Project's shelter animals by applying the principles of animal behavior science in evaluating how animals interact with each other and their environment. The Animal Behavior Specialist develops behavior training plans, and trains staff, volunteers, and foster parents to implement behavior plans which benefit the physical and emotional well-being of the animals in our care.

This represents a list of essential job duties. Other duties or special projects may be assigned as needed.

Uphold the standards and values of LifeLine Animal Project:

Save Lives -- Build Community -- Be Exceptional Stewards -- Be Courageous -- Be Compassionate -- Take Responsibility -- Respect, Embrace and Celebrate Diversity

Animal Handling and Behavior Responsibilities:

• Create behavior plans as needed. Coordinate with Kennel and Placement staff to implement plans and ensure these plans are followed.
• Work closely with the Volunteer Coordinator to build a community of animal welfare advocates by organizing and overseeing volunteers assisting with behavior plan implementation. Train volunteers as needed.
• Receive referrals from the Foster Coordinator for assistance with animals in foster care.
• Coordinate with Community Caseworkers to advise and assist pets and owners in the community.
• Work with foster parents to create and implement behavior plans for foster animals.
• Train Shelter staff and volunteers concerning reading animal body language and behavior warning signs, proper training techniques using positive reinforcement, and enrichment activities.
• Lead by example, modeling proper animal handling techniques, safety protocols, and compassionate care.
• Assist with Dogs Playing for Life play groups.
• Consult with management to identify animals that do not have placement options.
• Assist with behavior needs at other LifeLine locations as needed.

Administrative Responsibilities:

• Keep detailed, organized records concerning animal evaluations, training plans, staff training, and foster parent contacts. Produce reports as needed.
• Use shelter database systems to write animal behavior plans.

General Responsibilities:

• Participate in cross-departmental meetings and initiatives to ensure smooth coordination across the shelter.
• Participate in Placement team activities. Back-up Placement positions as needed.
• Participate in euthanasia decisions with the management team and support staff.
• Continue education by participating in LifeLine's 40-hour annual training requirement.
• Other tasks as assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

• Compassion for animals and the people who love and care for them.
• Ability to serve the public and fellow employees with honesty and integrity.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and to bend and reach to perform assigned work activities.
• Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. without assistance.
• Ability to communicate, understand and follow a variety of oral and written instructions/procedures.
• Ability to work well in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Comfortable working with dogs and cats of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
• Basic animal medical and behavior knowledge (preferred)
• Ability to follow safety protocols and handle challenging situations with calmness and professionalism.
• Ability to work collaboratively with multiple departments to ensure efficient shelter operations.
• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and remain composed under pressure.
• Ability to interact with impounded dogs, cats and other animals including vicious, stray, sick or injured animals.
• Ability to handle seeing and dealing with animals that have been abused, neglected or treated cruelly.
• Ability to cope with the emotional impact of possible euthanasia cases.
• Must be able to work weekends, holidays, and varying shifts based on shelter needs.
• Must pass a background check.
• Must have a means of travel that ensures prompt arrival for work shifts.

Minimum of high school diploma or equivalent. At least one year of leadership experience. Two or more years' experience in animal related field, animal sheltering, or animal care preferred. Fear Free Sheltering preferred.

While performing the duties of this job, employee may be exposed to unpleasant kennel smells. May have to handle dogs and cats that are stray, injured, diseased or vicious.