What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Behavior Trainer position at Humane Society of Missouri?
Are you passionate about helping animals find their forever homes? Join our team as an Adoption Center Animal Behavior Trainer and make a difference in the lives of shelter animals. We're seeking an enthusiastic individual to evaluate and train animals entering our shelter, ensuring they have the best chance for safe and loving placements. This is your opportunity to contribute to our mission and create a positive impact on the animal community.
Responsibilities include:
- Animal Evaluation and Training: Assess behavioral needs of shelter animals and develop training plans in collaboration with our behavior and veterinary teams to support our shelter animals. Makes recommendations for animal disposition based upon evaluation of each animal's specific needs.
- Program Implementation: Assist in designing and implementing behavioral programs to promote animal well-being and smooth transitions to their new homes.
- Staff and Volunteer Training: Educate and train fellow staff members and volunteers on interpreting animal behavior and handling techniques to ensure a safe and caring environment.
- Collaboration: Participate in meetings and discussions to contribute ideas for improving shelter operations and achieving department goals.
- Data Management: Accurately document animal behavior data, update records, and communicate progress to the Behavior Manager, Veterinarian, and Adoption Center Management Team.
- Animal Welfare: Always treat animals humanly with respect and concern and educate others about these values and our mission.
- Travel and Events: Travel between shelter facilities as needed and participate in department and organization events, such as "Bark in the Park."
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED; certified graduate of Karen Pryor or Jean Donaldson Academy, or Veterinary Technician Specialty-Behavior; or equivalent experience.
- Strong understanding of reward-based training methods, operant conditioning, and classical conditioning. Knowledge of learning theory and proper animal handling techniques.
- Effective communication skills, both written and oral. Able to work collaboratively and provide training to others.
- Certificates/Licenses:
- CPDT-KA or higher is preferred.
Physical Demands and Work Environment:
- Regularly standing, walking, using hands, reaching, and talking or hearing.
- Occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, sitting, climbing, and balancing.
- Lifting and moving up to 50 pounds; exposure to animals, allergens, and varying weather conditions.
The Humane Society of Missouri offers competitive wages and excellent benefits:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
- Short-term disability
- Long-term disability (100% employer paid)
- Retirement Savings Plan
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Employee Assistance Program
- Paid time off, including vacation, sick and holiday pay
Employees are eligible for the following discounts after 90 days of employment:
- 40% off veterinary services
- 15% off prescription diets
- $50 off adoptions at HSMO
- 10% off gift shop
- Purina for Professionals
Salary : $50 - $0
