POSITION SUMMARY:
The Behavior & Enrichment Supervisor’s primary responsibility is to assist with the development and implementation of canine and feline behavior and enrichment programs for the Humane Society of Weld County (HSWC). This position will conduct the operation of a shelter enrichment and training program for shelter dogs and cats. As the behavior subject matter expert, this position will provide advice and hands-on assistance with animal handling, working with behavioral concerns and will assess the mental and physical needs of shelter animals with an emphasis on enrichment and training.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Assist the shelter management team in the development and implementation of training protocols, materials, and programs to meet the needs of animal training and enrichment programs.
Lead the implementation of in-shelter canine training and behavior modification for the canine population through a Least Intrusive Minimally Aversive positive reinforcement-based program.
Lead basic enrichment programming, such as canine playgroups, in-kennel enrichment activities and canine and feline socialization.
Provide behavior consultations at adoption for animals with behavior concerns; provide adoption follow-ups and post-adoption support when appropriate.
Act as the subject matter expert in providing education for staff, volunteers and adopters; actively support staff and volunteers to promote the development of skills related to the advancement of in-shelter animal enrichment, animal handling and behavior knowledge.
Assess potential socialization history to humans of in-shelter felines and identify alternative placement program candidates; notify health care department of their vetting needs to prepare for program placement; actively work other rescues and agencies for transfer options for feral/barn cats when appropriate.
Maintain current and accurate behavioral assessments and notes in shelter software; develop and maintain behavior plans for behavior modification animals, document and track progress in shelter software.
Alert health care department to animals potentially in need of medical examinations or treatments.
Provide animal handling training to staff and volunteers; develop staff and volunteer appropriate canine and feline enrichment protocols.
Provide training and behavioral support to behavior/socialization foster volunteers.
Maintain a positive, cooperative relationship with all departments and staff, volunteers and partners to promote a team effort in evaluating and managing each animal’s health and behavior.
Assess the behavior of shelter animals through evaluations, make placement recommendations, and participate in behavior-related euthanasia discussions.
Any other duties as may be assigned by the shelter management team.
Regular and predictable attendance is required.
QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum of three years’ experience in animal handling, health and care is required.
Two to three years’ experience working in a shelter/rescue environment is preferred.
Professional training in animal behavior and handling is required; Dog Trainer (CPDT) or comparable certification is preferred.
Knowledge and practical experience in reward-based dog training, operant and classical conditioning, and foundations of canine behavior modification is required.
Valid Driver’s License and ability to gain coverage through our motor vehicle insurance.