POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Canine Enrichment Specialist (CES) works directly and collaboratively with the Animal Care and Movement Manager, when applicable, to maintain individualized enrichment and training protocols commensurate with the philosophy of Dogs Playing for Life (DPFL) Programming and the overall mission of enhanced quality of life for maximum life-saving. This position attends to the emotional and behavioral well-being of the entire shelter canine population.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Ensures rotation of all qualifying dogs through daily PG

• Responsible for ensuring sufficient daily exercise and time outside of their enclosure for all sheltered dogs, as applicable, while helping to coordinate assistance from staff and volunteers

• Communicates promptly and effectively with other shelter staff in order to assure consistency of dog handling based on changing needs and to provide updates on individual behavior concerns.

• Assists in maintaining adequate signage and documentation (on kennels, around the building, and within electronic records) for the entire canine population.

• Works with shelter staff to implement enrichment and training protocols for individual dogs (on-site and off-site).

• Assists, as requested, in training volunteers to handle the dogs consistently and safely.

• Maintains kennel environment by relocating dogs when behaviorally advantageous, designating daily kennel enrichment, and providing for necessary kennel communication to guide staff and volunteers in ideal care for each dog.

• Conducts dog-dog interactions with potential adopters, when requested.

• Teach/train designated kennel staff proper handling techniques in accordance with DPFL Programming.

• Ensures canine enrichment areas (playgroup yards) are properly cleaned and maintained.

• Supports the organization in the development and implementation of any new protocols or programs designed to enhance the quality of life for the entire canine population.

• Other duties as assigned.

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Minimum Qualifications

• High school degree or equivalent

• At least one year of experience working in an animal shelter or other related agency.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Works well under pressure and meets tight deadlines.

• Meticulous attention to detail.

• Demonstrated experience in program implementation and management, as well as providing customer service.

• Working knowledge of dog and cat handling and behavior, including pets with challenging temperaments and with severe health conditions.

• Ability to handle pets safely and with kindness always, without exception.

• Must possess and maintain a current, valid Texas Driver’s License.

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Skills and Requirements

• Must be able to work in a high-volume, fast-paced, high-stress environment.

• Self-motivated, great attitude, team-oriented a must.

• Must have the ability to render quick, responsible decisions under stressful circumstances.

• Knowledge and understanding of herd management practices and principles as they apply to shelter health.

• Must be able to use and understand shelter/medical software programs and other basic equipment associated with day-to-day operations. Experience with ShelterLuv is a plus.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective and positive working relationships and communications with staff, volunteers, animal control officers, and the general public.

• Ability to help establish and maintain best practices regarding sanitation, health, and animal well-being.

Work Environment:

• While performing the duties of the job, the employee is frequently exposed to odors or airborne particles including animal fur and chemicals. The noise level in the work environment is very loud. Frequent driving between facilities is required as well as consistent availability after-hours, on weekends, and on holidays.

• Physical Effort: Work requires lifting up to 50 pounds and carrying animals and food bags (will be assisted by other staff members in lifting animals over 40 lbs). Walks or stands for extended periods of time; frequently works in a kneeling or bending at the waist position.

• Working conditions: May be exposed to extreme weather conditions, unpleasant odors, noises, and animal feces for extended periods of time. May be exposed to bites, scratches, and contagious diseases.

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Benefits:

• Dental Insurance

• Health insurance

• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 8-hour shift

• 5 days on with 2 days off

• Some emergency on-call

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PVAS is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, domestic partner status, or medical condition.
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Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $12.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Day range:

• Holidays
• Weekends as needed

Shift:

• 8 hour shift

Work setting:

• In-person

Work Location: In person