The Training Specialist works directly with the Training & Behavior Supervisor to support and assist with training & behavior modification programs, including training sessions as well as general physical exercise and mental stimulation. This position reports daily to the Training and Behavior Supervisor, and ultimately to the Manager of Shelter Culture and Performance.
Schedule: TBD

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

• Minimum of 1 year of experience in animal welfare; animal shelter experience preferred.
• Prior training and behavioral experience preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Proven knowledge of the guidelines and practices in an animal welfare/shelter environment.
• Knowledge of local animal control laws and state humane laws and their application to the general public.
• Demonstrated excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal communication and public speaking skills.
• Ability to use a PC and widely used software packages, e.g., spreadsheets (Excel), word processing (MS Word); ability to learn new software as necessary.
• Ability to meet deadlines; ability to set and accomplish work in order of priority; professionally maintain composure and effectiveness under pressure and changing conditions.
• Able to work a flexible schedule with regular weekend and evening activities.
• Ability to communicate to team members via walkie-talkie.

Working Conditions:

• Office and animal shelter environment.
• Potential exposure to high noise levels and zoonotic diseases.
• Exposure to all weather conditions when working at outdoor events.
• Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent use of computers, telephones and walkie-talkies.

Job Type: Part-time, non-exempt
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $19.63 per hour
Expected hours: 15 – 28 per week

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Opportunities for advancement
• Referral program

Work Location: In perso

• Obedience and behavior modification training with individual dogs, both on and off the adoption floor, as directed by the Training & Behavior Supervisor.
• Responsible for assuring sufficient daily exercise time while coordinating assistance from staff and volunteers.
• Manage daily playgroups and provide dog to dog assessments.
• Perform behavioral assessments of shelter animals for adoption suitability and proper placements.
• Assist, as requested, with on-site counseling for potential adopters to help make successful placements.
• Maintain inventory of behavior department supplies, such as training treats, training collars, signage, as well as requested documentation.
• Maintain kennel environment by providing daily kennel layouts, fitting training tools, relocating dogs when behaviorally advantageous, supplying daily kennel enrichment, providing for necessary kennel communication to staff and volunteers.
• Communicate promptly and effectively with other Training & Behavior Modification Department (TBMD) staff to assure consistency of dog handling based on changing needs and to provide updates on individual behavior concerns.
• Assist with euthanasia at times when doing so will alleviate stress from a behaviorally challenged dog.
• Assist Training & Behavior Supervisor to provide adoption follow up support for previous adopters by providing phone consultation and/or training on-site or in the home.
• Provide private training, for a fee, to clients who did not adopt their animal from LHS.
• Assist, as requested, with training sessions conducted by Training and Behavior staff.
• Continue upgrading skills and education by attending canine coach classes and seminars/workshops.