Behavior Supervisor

Humane Society Pikes Peak Region•Colorado Springs, CO

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Behavior Supervisor is responsible for providing direct supervision and support to the Behavior Specialist and Technicians; ensuring operational goals and timelines are achieved; implements appropriate behavior procedures and guidelines to support organizational goals; supports the development of a culture or engagement and relationship building with staff and volunteers; works to maintain positive relations with departments utilizing L.I.M.A. (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) based methods. HSPPR's Mission Statement: HSPPR offers compassionate care to animals, supports safe communities, and provides socially conscious sheltering. The Behavior Supervisor plays a critical role in advancing HSPPR's mission by ensuring the behavioral health, welfare, and successful placement of animals in our care. Through leadership of behavior staff, development and oversight of behavior modification programs, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and support of adopters, volunteers, and the community, this position helps increase positive outcomes for animals while promoting humane treatment, responsible pet ownership, and strong human-animal relationships. By fostering a culture of engagement, safety, and continuous improvement, the Behavior Supervisor directly contributes to HSPPR's life-saving efforts and commitment to serving both animals and people.

Requirements

Minimum of two years of directly related experience in an animal sheltering or animal welfare environment or equivalent experience preferred.
1+ years supervisory experience recommended.
Certified Professional Dog Trainer Certification (CPDT-KA), advanced experience and/or certification in animal behavior consulting and modification preferred.
Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment.
Possess excellent communication and organizational skills.
Excellent interpersonal and team building skills.
Positive attitude and professional demeanor.
Proficient in Microsoft Office software, data entry and reporting.
Must be able to use both hands and arms to grip, pull and push utilizing safety equipment such as, but not limited to catch poles, snappy snares, leashes, ropes, muzzles.
Must handle various animals of various sizes, may include aggressive animals and potential exposure to zoonotic diseases.

Nice To Haves

Certified Professional Dog Trainer Certification (CPDT-KA), advanced experience and/or certification in animal behavior consulting and modification preferred.

Responsibilities

Supervises day-to-day operational aspects of the behavior services provided by the Behavior Specialists and Technicians.
Coaches staff by providing ongoing feedback and timely performance feedback.
In conjunction with the Behavior and Population Manager, sets performance standards, supervises, and motivates employees.
Recognizes good performance and counsels' staff to correct problems.
Adheres to principles of progressive discipline.
Provides input to the Behavior and Population Manager regarding performance evaluations, employee coaching and disciplinary actions.
Responsible for conducting staff meetings and preparing staff training sessions.
Keep the Behavior and Population Manager informed of departmental progress, personnel concerns, etc.
Ensure scheduling, training and payroll is being completed for direct reports.
Keeps inventory of items used for the behavior programs and places orders when needed.
Oversees the canine and feline behavior management, including but not limited to performing behavior evaluations; managing and conducting the behavior modification program; reviewing progress notes; staff and volunteer training; curriculum development and training materials; working with the Population Coordinators to design and implement cat and dog behavior support.
Evaluates policies and procedures related to animals' behavior.
Provides recommendations for changes to your direct manager to ensure we are staying proactive and efficient.
Collaborates with the Population Coordinators and meets regularly with them to determine staffing needs, duties, and training.
Works directly with the Operations, Veterinary Services, and Animal Law Enforcement Management teams, to determine appropriate behavior and medical candidates for adoption, both current and potential.
Daily reviews of animal records with concerning behaviors or have a history of concerning behaviors, utilizing behavior and pathway planning knowledge, to determine animal movement and placement decisions, including but not limited to adoption, behavior evaluation, surgery, transfer, and/or euthanasia.
Works to anticipate and resolve conflicts and promote open communication between volunteers, staff, and management.
Solicits volunteer and employee input regarding their work and workplace.
Works closely with Behavior Specialist and Population Coordinators to achieve strategic initiatives.
Communicate effectively with staff so pertinent parties are informed of potential issues/information.
Documents staff and volunteer complaints.
Assists to handle complaints and/or concerns from, or about, volunteers with professionalism and good judgment.
Communicates with and provides regular feedback and/or coaching to staff and volunteers in a professional and timely manner.
Inform Customer Service Managers & Director of Communications of developments that may affect HSPPR or the department including department progress, media exposure, public image, client concerns, and personnel issues.
Supports staff and volunteers; provide quality services to clients, volunteers, and employees, recognizing their individual contributions to the success of our organization.
Performs pre-adoption and post-adoption consultations to promote and ensure the successful placement of animals.
Provides behavior consultations for adopters and the public, offering guidance on training management, connecting them with resources, and supporting informed decisions related to surrender or euthanasia.
In conjunction with the department manager, plans and organizes in anticipation of future needs.
Commitment to the mission, values, goals, and success of HSPPR.
Appropriate documents observed animal behaviors utilizing objective language as required in relevant procedures and/or policies.
Perform all other duties as assigned.
Directly supervises the Behavior Specialists and Behavior Technicians.