What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dog Training Specialist - Part-time position at Longmont Humane Society?
Job Title: Training Specialist
FLSA Status: Part-time, non-exempt
Approval date: April 16, 2025
The Training Specialist works directly with the Training & Behavior Modification Department (TBMD) Supervisor to support and assist with training & behavior modification programs, including training sessions as well as general physical exercise and mental stimulation. This position reports to the Training and Behavior Supervisor.
Schedule: TBD
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Obedience and behavior modification training with individual dogs, both on and off the adoption floor, as directed by the TBMD Supervisor.
- Responsible for assuring sufficient daily exercise time while coordinating assistance from staff and volunteers.
- Manage daily playgroups and provide dog to dog assessments.
- Perform behavioral assessments of shelter animals for adoption suitability and proper placements.
- Assist, as requested, with on-site counseling for potential adopters to help make successful placements.
- Maintain inventory of behavior department supplies, such as training treats, training collars, signage, as well as requested documentation.
- Maintain kennel environment by providing daily kennel layouts, fitting training tools, relocating dogs when behaviorally advantageous, supplying daily kennel enrichment, providing for necessary kennel communication to staff and volunteers.
- Communicate promptly and effectively with other TBMD staff to assure consistency of dog handling based on changing needs and to provide updates on individual behavior concerns.
- Assist with euthanasia at times when doing so will alleviate stress from a behaviorally challenged dog.
- Assist TBMD Supervisor or TBMD Lead to provide adoption follow up support for previous adopters by providing phone consultation and/or training on-site or in the home.
- Provide private training, for a fee, to clients who did not adopt their animal from LHS if needed.
- Assist, as requested, with training sessions conducted by TBMD staff.
- Continue upgrading skills and education by attending canine coach classes and seminars/workshops.
Job Qualifications
Education and Experience:
- Minimum of 1 year of experience in animal welfare; animal shelter experience preferred.
- Prior training and behavioral experience preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Proven knowledge of the guidelines and practices in an animal welfare/shelter environment.
- Knowledge of local animal control laws and state humane laws and their application to the general public.
- Demonstrated excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent interpersonal communication and public speaking skills.
- Ability to use a PC and widely used software packages, e.g., Microsoft 365; ability to learn new software as necessary.
- Ability to meet deadlines; ability to set and accomplish work in order of priority; professionally maintain composure and effectiveness under pressure and changing conditions.
- Able to work a flexible schedule with regular weekend and evening activities.
Working Conditions:
- Office and animal shelter environment.
- Potential exposure to high noise levels and zoonotic diseases.
- Exposure to all weather conditions when working at outdoor events.
- Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds.
- Frequent use of computer and telephone.
Job Type: Part-time, non-exempt
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $19.63 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Opportunities for advancement
- Referral program
- Retirement plan
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Weekends as needed
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20
