What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Coordinator - Behavior and Enrichment - Domestic Animal Services position at Collier County?
• Oversee the behavioral health of animals through assessments, enrichment programs, and behavior modification plans.
• Create and implement individualized behavior plans for animals with challenging behaviors to support positive outcomes.
• Facilitate daily playgroups, assessing animal temperament and gathering information to improve matches with adopters.
• Use positive reinforcement methods to modify behavior and help animals succeed with potential adopters or fosters.
• Manage and adjust the shelter’s enrichment program, collaborating with other team members as needed.
• Maintain detailed behavioral records and report progress during Animal Care and Support meetings.
Adoption and Foster Support:
• Provide pre-adoption counseling, hands-on training, and post-adoption support to adopters.
• Facilitate safe meet-and-greets between adoptable animals and families with existing pets.
• Provide ongoing support to fosters, addressing behavioral challenges and offering solutions to prepare animals for adoption.
Training and Collaboration:
• Train staff, volunteers, and fosters in behavior management, playgroups, and low-stress handling techniques.
• Assist with staff education on animal behavior, including fear-free care, low-stress euthanasia, and safe vaccine administration.
• Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for behavior and enrichment programs.
• Provide guidance on behavior-related decisions, including adoption recommendations, placement pathways, and medical or behavior interventions.
Additional Duties
• Ensure animals are treated with compassion and respect at all times.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and healthy environment for animals, staff, and visitors.
• Promote a humane and caring attitude toward animals and the public.
• Attend relevant seminars and webinars to stay updated on best practices in behavior and enrichment.
• Assist with other tasks and areas as needed to support shelter operations.
Working Conditions
• Physical Requirements: Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs., walk, stand, and handle animals of various sizes and temperaments.
• Three (3) years of related experience.
• Candidates without a degree should possess two (2) additional years of related experience in animal behavior, training, or behavior modification, ideally with animals of varying species, sizes, and temperaments.
• One (1) year of experience working or volunteering in animal welfare or a related field preferred.
• Preferred Skills: Strong organizational skills and the ability to solve problems creatively. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a focus on customer service and teamwork.
• Fingerprinting required.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATES:
• Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver’s License with any applicable endorsement(s) to drive a County vehicle as provided in CMA 5805.
• Fear Free Certification or willingness to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
• Certification from IAABC, CCPDT, KPA, or a similar organization preferred.
- Salary offers above the minimum of the pay grade may be considered based on qualifications.
- Essential Employees may be required to work during an undeclared emergency and/or declared emergency. On an incident-by-incident basis, the County’s Administrative Office will make the determination as to who will be required to work.
- This job posting is not intended to be all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills or working conditions associated with the position.
Salary : $26 - $34
