Behavior Specialist
About The Position
This position functions independently within the Behavior Team while collaborating closely with the greater GPSPCA team to advance the organization’s mission. The role is responsible for supporting the mental and physical well-being of all animals at GPSPCA, with a primary focus on behaviorally challenging and at-risk animals. Key responsibilities include advocating for the animals, providing enrichment and training, implementing and enforcing safe-handling practices, maintaining clear and effective signage, facilitating organization-wide communication, and delivering staff training. This role requires the ability to safely, confidently, and effectively work with GPSPCA’s most at-risk animal population.
Requirements
- High School diploma or GED preferred
- 2-3 years of experience in animal welfare
- Prior experience of handling animals of various temperaments
- Integrity, Problem Solving, Action Oriented, Detail Oriented
- Demonstrated organizational and multitasking abilities, with capacity to manage and prioritize duties across multiple departments.
- Handle dogs and cats and other pets of all sizes, ages, temperaments and needs safely and appropriately
- Strong interpersonal and verbal and written communication skills
- Excellent customer service and professionalism
- Compassion and empathy for animal and human clients
- Ability to remain calm and empathic in stressful situations
- Possess a Valid driver’s license
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. to waist height and handle/ walk animals up to 100 lbs. safely.
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching.
- Comfortable working in environments with noise, odor, and potential exposure to zoonotic disease.
Responsibilities
- Conduct behavior assessments for dogs and cats upon intake and through their shelter stay.
- Create and implement individualized behavior modification plans to reduce stress and improve overall welfare for shelter pets, collaborating with staff and volunteers to ensure consistent follow-through.
- Perform dog-to-dog (D2D) introductions and communicate results and recommendations to relevant departments.
- Assist in coordinating and running canine playgroups, ensuring sessions are safe, structured, and supportive of animal well-being.
- Conduct behavior consultations for adopters and foster families to ensure successful matches.
- Assist with onsite and offsite behavior consultations, as well as staff, volunteer, and public training classes.
- Assess bite risk and participate in safety planning for animals and people.
- Assist with humane euthanasia decisions and procedures for animals with significant behavioral challenges, in accordance with organizational policies and ethical standards.
- Manage the Behavior Team inbox, ensuring timely, professional, and clear communication with internal and external inquiries.
- Support the Behavior Manager with data tracking, communication, and project follow-through as assigned.
- Participate with end of day pet help to support daily animal care operations.
- Other duties as needed
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous PTO, Days of Significance, and 9 paid holidays
- 100% employer‑covered mental health support
- Disability and life insurance
- 403(b) retirement plan
- Discounts on veterinary care, retail store items, and GPSPCA event tickets
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
