FT Behavior Specialist (Behavior)

Job Skills / Requirements

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:

• Behavior Program
• • Prioritizes compassionate and humane treatment of animals
  • Provides support and assistance for behaviorally challenged animals in shelter and foster homes
  • Implements and oversees behavior modification plans for animals in the shelter and in foster care
  • Uses positive reinforcement/force-free training methods to perform behavior modification and teach basic obedience
  • Assists Vet Tech team with canine behavior assessments to determine pathways for behavior modification, enrichment, or behavioral euthanasia
  • Provides training to staff, volunteers, and foster parents regarding proper handling and recommended training techniques
  • Engages with LHS/LFACC teams to increase use and understanding of the FAS (Fear-Anxiety-Stress) Scale
  • Manages and grows LHS’s specialized canine training and enrichment program
  • Performs post-adoption follow-up calls and provides adopters with tools to aid in pet retention
  • Assists in recruiting, nurturing, and educating volunteer behavior caregivers and serves as primary contact
  • Maintains and enhances volunteer communication and updates through email and telephone
  • Partners and collaborates effectively with other departments as necessary
  • Communicates escalated issues to Manager of Animal Welfare as necessary
  • Documents the daily progress of animals on behavior modification plans
  • Completes timely, accurate, appropriate data entry into Shelter Buddy 
  • Ensures behavioral records for animals in care are accessible, current, and accurate
  • Maintains appropriate volunteer records and database information
  • Stocks necessary supplies and organizes supplies for care and use
  • Ensures an inclusive, consistent, and respectful working environment
  • Upholds LHS/LFACC mission and values during interactions with the public and volunteers
  • Maintains company equipment with care and respect
  • Manages an efficient, effective, and prudent program within a narrow nonprofit budget 
  • Completes all activities consistent with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

Education Requirements (All)

High School Diploma

Additional Information / Benefits

Benefits: Medical Insurance, Life Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Paid Vacation, Paid Holidays, Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability, Simple IRA Plan