Animal Behavior Manager

Great Plains Spca•Merriam, KS

3d•$60,000 - $65,000•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced and compassionate Behavior Manager to lead our Behavior team and oversee the training, enrichment, and behavioral rehabilitation of animals in our care. The ideal candidate is an emotionally intelligent leader with a deep commitment to animal welfare, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to inspire and develop a team of four Behavior Specialists. This hands-on leadership role requires extensive experience in animal behavior, behavior modification, and shelter enrichment programs. The Behavior Manager will drive force-free, evidence-based training methods that build trust, reduce fear and stress, and strengthen the human-animal bond. This individual will play a critical role in improving the physical and emotional well-being of animals in our care, addressing behavioral challenges, and increasing each animal's opportunity for a successful adoption. The successful candidate will foster a collaborative, solutions-focused culture, mentor staff in best practices for positive reinforcement training, and ensure all behavior programs align with the organization's mission, values, and commitment to providing exceptional, compassionate care.

Requirements

Schedule Requirement: Tuesday through Saturday, with rotating shifts of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. based on operational needs. Shift assignments are rotated equitably among team members.
Minimum 2 years of experience in animal behavior training, shelter behavior programs, or related fields.
Experience leading or managing a team is preferred.
Strong understanding of animal learning theory, behavior modification, and training techniques.
Ability to assess behavior concerns and develop effective, humane intervention plans.
Exceptional emotional intelligence and ability to work in a high-stress environment.
Strong communication skills to interact with staff, volunteers, and the public.
Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays as needed.

Nice To Haves

Certification in animal behavior (CPDT-KA, IAABC, or similar) is a plus.

Responsibilities

Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of four Behavior Specialists, fostering a collaborative, supportive, and high-performing work environment.
Conduct behavioral assessments and develop individualized behavior modification plans using force-free, evidence-based, positive reinforcement training methods.
Evaluate animals upon intake and throughout their stay to identify behavioral needs, monitor progress, and support successful placement outcomes.
Design, implement, and oversee enrichment programs that promote emotional well-being, reduce stress, and enhance quality of life for animals in our care.
Partner closely with the Medical, Animal Care, Foster, and Adoption teams to provide comprehensive, individualized care for each animal.
Provide education, coaching, and hands-on training to staff, volunteers, foster caregivers, and adopters on animal behavior, body language, handling, and positive reinforcement training techniques.
Develop, implement, and continuously improve behavior-related policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure consistency and operational excellence.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of behavior assessments, training plans, progress notes, and recommendations.
Collaborate on behavioral Quality of Life (QOL) assessments and assist in making compassionate, evidence-based behavioral euthanasia recommendations when appropriate.
Maintain a flexible work schedule, including weekends and evenings as needed, to meet the operational needs of the organization and the animals in our care.
Participate with end of day pet help to support daily animal care operations.
Other duties as needed