Behavior and Care Technician II – Denver Animal Protection
About The Position
Denver Animal Protection is seeking a Behavior and Care Technician II to provide essential care to animals in custody at the Denver Animal Shelter and participate in behavioral evaluations. The role ensures animals have clean living environments, food and water according to feeding instructions, and prompt reporting of health concerns to veterinary staff. It includes high levels of animal and customer care, as well as participation in behavior and enrichment programs and animal behavioral evaluations. The shelter receives animals of many species, including dogs, cats, small mammals, reptiles, birds, and barnyard animals. The position is based onsite at the Denver Animal Shelter, 1241 W. Bayaud Ave., Denver, Colorado. The shelter operates 24/7, and this role requires varied shifts, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Available schedules include 4/10 and 5/8 shifts. Occasional overtime may be required, and the employee may be called on to assist with emergency response. The job is physically demanding and requires a Health Performance Evaluation. A valid driver's license and acceptable driving record are required; the employee may need to transport animals in City vehicles.
Requirements
- High school graduation or a GED, HiSET, or TASC Certificate.
- Two years of experience performing technical or administrative work assisting in environmental public health specific to the assignment; a combination of appropriate education and experience may substitute for the minimum requirements.
- Valid driver's license at the time of application, maintained as a condition of employment, and an acceptable driving record.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
- Ability to work varied shifts, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Ability to work in a busy environment where business needs may change quickly, both independently and as part of a team.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; self-motivation, organization, and initiative.
- Commitment to science-based, fear-free handling and training methods.
- Ability to complete a Health Performance Evaluation.
Nice To Haves
- Two years of animal care experience in a veterinary office, animal hospital, animal shelter, pet store, or other animal care facility.
- Euthanasia certification, or ability to become euthanasia certified at the shelter within six months.
Responsibilities
- Provide compassionate care and meet the basic needs of animals in the shelter, ensuring a safe and clean environment.
- Clean and sanitize cages and kennels according to shelter protocols and keep the facility, equipment, and tools clean.
- Participate in breed evaluations for members of the public and animals in the shelter.
- Participate in behavioral evaluations and assessments, including outcome decisions and euthanasia determinations.
- Participate in animal enrichment programs, including walks, dog play groups, and cognitive and environmental enrichment activities.
- Observe animals for behavioral or medical changes, report concerns to shelter management, and record observations in computer software.
- Perform intake exams and administer vaccinations and medications when needed.
- Perform humane euthanasia on animals.
- Document animal and facility information according to standard procedures, including inventories, changes, head counts, daily logs, and behavioral and medical observations.
- Provide guidance, coaching, and training to volunteers, community service workers, and other staff.
- Participate in emergency preparedness and response activities, including being on call from time to time.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Guaranteed lifelong monthly pension after vesting following five years of service.
- 457B Retirement Plan.
- 140 hours of paid time off earned within the first year.
- 12 paid holidays, one personal holiday, one Wellness Day, and one volunteer day per year.
- Competitive medical, dental, and vision plans effective within one month of the start date.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
