Transport and Behavior Specialist

JOB SUMMARY

The Transport and Behavior Specialist is responsible for the non-traditional placement of animals by coordinating and transporting them to receiving shelters across the United States. This role also oversees behavior support and modification programs for shelter animals, ensuring their well-being and successful placement.

INTRODUCTION

Do you love animals? OK, we know the answer to that. But do you love people? Like, all kinds of people—even the ones who may not be just like you? If the answer is yes, keep reading! The Humane Society of South Mississippi is looking for an outgoing, ultra-helpful, multitasking superstar to join our team.

If the following describes you, we want you to apply!

• You have amazing people skills—beyond basic customer service, you genuinely enjoy making customers, volunteers, and staff feel welcome and valued.
• You thrive on helping and teaching others, always offering guidance without judgment or condescension.
• Your coworkers can’t imagine working a day without you—you’re the ultimate team player.
• You’re a self-starter and an expert multitasker who can juggle competing priorities while making sound decisions.
• You are kind, helpful, and always advocating for people and animals alike.
• You embrace change, think optimistically, and find creative solutions in challenging situations.
• You follow directions but aren’t afraid to ask for help when needed.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Customer Service

• Greet and assist all visitors and partners in a professional, warm, and positive manner.
• Answer phones and emails promptly with clear and helpful information.
• Perform data entry and maintain accurate records.

Transport

• Maintain strong working relationships with transport partners through regular communication.
• Schedule and coordinate the selection of animals for transport according to partner requirements.
• Ensure timely testing and vaccinations for transport animals.
• Train staff and volunteer drivers on proper transport care and safety.
• Verify that transported animals have all required paperwork and documentation.
• Submit transport documentation, including receipts, to the Finance Department.
• Oversee loading procedures to maximize animal safety.
• Collaborate with HSSM departments to facilitate partner placements.
• Accurately enter transport records into the shelter database.
• Research grants and resources for transport initiatives.
• Report weekly statistics on alternative placements to leadership.
• Drive transport vehicles and deliver animals to partner destinations as needed.
• Recruit and schedule volunteers to assist with transport efforts.
• Conduct background checks on volunteer drivers.

Behavior & Enrichment

• Develop and support programs that reduce behavior issues in shelter animals.
• Assist with intake reduction programs, including rehoming websites, behavior helplines, and lost-and-found databases.
• Conduct daily shelter walkthroughs, reporting sick or injured animals to the veterinarian.
• Identify animals in need of additional enrichment or behavioral support.
• Assist with daily dog walking and enrichment activities.
• Implement and perform behavioral assessments of shelter animals to prepare them for adoption.
• Collect and analyze data to track program success.

Other Duties

• Provide support to the HSSM team, including:
• Communicating relevant information to supervisors and coworkers.
• Participating in staff meetings to enhance animal care and operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• Positive, optimistic attitude.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 5 years of customer service experience.
• Minimum 2 years of professional or volunteer animal experience.
• Ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with database systems.
• Willingness to obtain euthanasia technician certification within six months (provided by HSSM).
• Availability to work weekends and holidays.
• Ability to drive in various weather conditions and for long periods.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work independently with minimal supervision.
• Operate in a high-noise environment indoors (air-conditioned/heated) and outdoors as needed.
• Use equipment such as computers, printers, telephones, and cleaning supplies.
• Regular exposure to animals, bodily fluids, cleaning chemicals, dust, bites, and scratches.
• Lift and/or move up to 100 pounds with assistance.
• Spend significant time standing or walking.
• Must develop self-care skills to manage compassion fatigue.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $15.00 per hour

Expected hours: No more than 40 per week

Benefits:

• 403(b) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Weekends as needed

Ability to Relocate:

• Gulfport, MS 39501: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $15