Canine Behavior Specialist

Canine Behavior Specialist

Schedule: Thursday- Monday 8:00AM- 4:30PM, Tuesday and Wednesday off. 

Summary

The Canine Behavior Specialist provides behavioral enrichment to the dogs in Animal Care Centers of New York City’s (ACC) care, including assisting with playgroups and behavioral assessments, providing exercise, behavioral and environmental enrichment, socialization, and basic training. 

Essential Job Functions:

• Conducting individual socialization sessions with specific dogs and recording their observed behaviors.
• Supporting the enrichment program by distributing enrichment items.
• Aiding specialized behavior roles in their daily responsibilities, including behavioral assessments, playgroup, and training assistance.

Salary and Benefits:

$21.00/Hour

 ACC values work/life balance and offers a generous paid-time-off (PTO) package that includes vacation time, birthdays off, personal days and sick pay. We also value physical and mental health by offering a great open access Cigna medical, dental and vision insurance at a low premium to our employees as well as 401K and Pension, Life Insurance. We also have on-the-job training for 2-4 weeks, periodic all staff trainings to include safety, DEI, cross training, and other growth opportunities. 

Because ACC is a nonprofit, employees may be eligible for loan forgiveness, cancellation, and/or consolidation under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program (PSLF). Created under the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007, PSLF allows borrowers who work full time for nonprofits and government agencies to have their outstanding debt forgiven tax-free on Federal Direct Loans, after making 120 qualifying monthly payments under a qualifying repayment plan. 

Please see the attached Job Description and Benefits Flyer for more details. 

Qualifications:

Ability to make sound judgments and work independently in a fast-paced environment with demonstrated ability to juggle multiple competing tasks and demands. Ability to foster a cooperative, encouraging and positive work environment with staff as well as volunteers. Flexibility with daily tasks as well as hours depending on operational needs. 

Must be able to handle all types and breeds of dogs with varying behaviors and energy levels, including those showing fearful and aggressive behaviors. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written. The ability to remain pleasant, calm and objective in all situations. Must be able to lift and move up to 50 pounds.

Education and Work Experience:

Must have a high school diploma or GED, This is an entry level position. While previous animal care experience is a plus. Familiarity with canine playgroups preferred.

This position will begin at our Brooklyn Animal Care Center and will be moved in 2024 to our new state of the art facility in Ridgewood Queens.