PT Behavior Specialist
Position Overview:
Functions as an expert on the Lexington Humane Society’s and Lexington-Fayette Animal Care and Control’s Behavior Program and provides behavioral care to animals in need. Must be 21 years of age or older, have a high school diploma or equivalency, and submit to a background check. Requires a strong commitment to the mission and purpose of LHS and LFACC. This is a non-exempt position reporting to the Manager of Animal Welfare.
Key Accountabilities:
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Behavior Program
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Prioritizes compassionate and humane treatment of animals
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Provides support and assistance for behaviorally challenged animals in shelter and foster homes
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Provides support and assistance to Behavior Coordinator
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Implements behavior modification plans for animals in the shelter and in foster care as directed by Behavior Coordinator
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Uses positive reinforcement/force-free training methods to perform behavior modification and teach basic obedience
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Assists Behavior Coordinator and Vet Tech team with canine behavior assessments to determine pathways for behavior modification, enrichment, or behavioral euthanasia
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Provides training to staff, volunteers, and foster parents regarding proper handling and recommended training techniques
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Engages with LHS/LFACC teams to increase use and understanding of the FAS (Fear-Anxiety-Stress) Scale
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Performs post-adoption follow-up calls and provides adopters with tools to aid in pet retention
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Assists in recruiting, nurturing, and educating volunteer behavior caregivers and serves as primary contact
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Maintains and enhances volunteer communication and updates through email and telephone
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Partners and collaborates effectively with other departments as necessary
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Communicates escalated issues to Manager of Animal Welfare as necessary
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Documents the daily progress of animals on behavior modification plans
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Completes timely, accurate, appropriate data entry into Shelter Buddy
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Ensures behavioral records for animals in care are accessible, current, and accurate
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Maintains appropriate volunteer records and database information
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Stocks necessary supplies and organizes supplies for care and use
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Ensures an inclusive, consistent, and respectful working environment
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Upholds LHS/LFACC mission and values during interactions with the public and volunteers
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Maintains company equipment with care and respect
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Manages an efficient, effective, and prudent program within a narrow nonprofit budget
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Completes all activities consistent with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
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Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
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Knowledge
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Relevant LHS and LFACC SOP
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Word, Excel, Google Workspace, Shelter Buddy, and other applicable software
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Animal breeds, basic behavior, temperament, and care
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Experience with positive reinforcement-based training methods
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In possession of or working toward training certification–CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, VSPDT
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Skills
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Excellent, inclusive internal and external customer service skills
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Clear verbal and written communication skills
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Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
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Internet research skills
