At a Glance
- Tasks: Assess and develop behaviour plans for shelter dogs, ensuring their adoptability and well-being.
- Company: Join a passionate animal shelter dedicated to improving the lives of pets.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, supportive team environment, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for community outreach and education.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of animals and their future families.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in animal behaviour, strong communication skills, and a love for all pets.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Responsibilities:
- Assess, monitor, and develop behaviour modification plans for dogs in shelter care, focusing on enrichment, training, and adoptability.
- Observe dogs for behavioural issues such as anxiety, fear-based aggression, or reactivity and recommend tailored interventions.
- Support successful adoptions through pre-adoption counselling with families on best training practices and post-adoption guidance.
- Work closely with staff, volunteers, and foster caregivers to implement behaviour plans and provide training and support.
- Implement and manage enrichment routines for all animals in the shelter (dogs, cats, small animals, etc.).
- Implement and manage playgroup schedule for dogs.
- Participate in euthanasia discussions and decision-making.
- Participate in community outreach programs, public training classes, and educational workshops.
- Maintain thorough documentation of behavioural assessments, interventions, and progress.
Essential Skills:
- Strong understanding of canine and feline behaviour, learning theory, and behaviour modification techniques.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team.
- Clear and compassionate communication with the public, including pet owners facing behavioural challenges.
- Ability to work independently with initiative and sound judgement.
- Strong organisational and time-management skills.
- Experience writing and managing behaviour plans for animals.
Minimum Position Requirements:
- 2+ years experience working in animal behaviour, preferably in a shelter or rescue environment.
- Proven ability to assess and work with dogs exhibiting a range of behavioural challenges.
- Comfortable working with dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments.
- Must be available to work flexible hours, including weekends or evenings as needed.
Certifications & Training Requirements:
- CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CDBC, KPA-CTP, IAABC or similar certification strongly preferred.
- Continuing education in animal behaviour, training, or welfare is encouraged and supported.
Physical Demands:
- Ability to stand, walk, and handle animals for extended periods.
- Must be able to safely handle large and strong dogs, including those with behavioural challenges.
- Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds may be required.
- Comfortable working in shelter conditions, which may include loud noise, odours, and exposure to animal waste.
Behavior Support Specialist employer: Humane Society of Greater Dayton
As a Behavior Support Specialist at our shelter, you will join a passionate team dedicated to improving the lives of animals in need. We offer a supportive work culture that values collaboration and continuous learning, with opportunities for professional development through ongoing training and certifications. Located in a vibrant community, our shelter not only focuses on animal welfare but also engages in outreach programs, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
Contact Detail:
Humane Society of Greater Dayton Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Behavior Support Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow animal behaviourists, trainers, and shelter staff. They might know of openings or can give you a heads-up about upcoming opportunities. Plus, personal connections can really make your application stand out!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in action! If you can, volunteer at local shelters or participate in community outreach programs. This not only boosts your experience but also gives you a chance to demonstrate your expertise in behaviour modification and training.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of canine and feline behaviour. Be ready to discuss specific cases you've worked on and the interventions you implemented. This will show potential employers that you’re not just book-smart but have real-world experience too!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you land that Behaviour Support Specialist role. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Behavior Support Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Animals:When writing your application, let your love for animals shine through! Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to animal welfare and behaviour modification. We want to see your genuine enthusiasm for helping dogs find their forever homes.
Tailor Your Behaviour Plans:Make sure to include specific examples of behaviour plans you've developed in the past. Highlight your understanding of canine behaviour and how you've successfully implemented training techniques. This will show us that you have the skills we’re looking for!
Communicate Clearly:Since you'll be working with a diverse team and the public, it's crucial to demonstrate your communication skills in your application. Use clear and compassionate language to convey your ideas and experiences. We appreciate applicants who can connect with others effectively!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Humane Society of Greater Dayton
✨Know Your Canine Behaviour
Brush up on your understanding of canine and feline behaviour, learning theory, and behaviour modification techniques. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your experience where you've successfully assessed and managed dogs with behavioural challenges.
✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills
Since this role involves working closely with a diverse team and the public, highlight your excellent interpersonal skills. Prepare to share instances where you've effectively communicated with pet owners or collaborated with staff and volunteers to implement behaviour plans.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
This position requires strong organisational and time-management skills. Come prepared with examples of how you've managed multiple tasks or projects simultaneously, especially in a shelter or rescue environment.
✨Be Ready for Real-Life Scenarios
Expect to discuss real-life scenarios related to behaviour modification and enrichment routines. Think about how you would handle specific situations, such as addressing anxiety or fear-based aggression in dogs, and be ready to share your thought process.
