What are the responsibilities and job description for the Canine Playgroup Coordinator position at Wayside Waifs?
Job Details
Description
STARTING PAY: $21.50 HR. DEPENDING ON EXPERIENCE AND CREDENTIALS
POSITION SUMMARY
The Playgroup Coordinator is an exciting new position that will focus on providing playgroups and enrichment to our canine population. This position will have the opportunity to grow and build upon Wayside’s already successful playgroup program to allow dogs social contact with other dogs, provide energy release opportunities, and provide options for species appropriate behavior expression. In addition to providing playgroups, this position will also provide additional enrichment opportunities to dogs who are not able to participate in playgroups. This position reports to the Canine Public Training & Behavior Manager, and has no direct reports.
PRIMARY ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Conduct dog playgroups daily as directed.
- Work in collaboration with the Canine Behavior Team to find appropriate play partner matches for all eligible dogs.
- Prepare and maintain playgroup locations, ensuring safety and cleanliness for dogs and people.
- Record and enter notes taken during playgroups into shelter software to aid in finding appropriate playgroup and adoption matches.
- Maintain a spreadsheet of dogs in the shelter that are available for playgroups.
- Build and maintain a robust volunteer base for playgroup support.
- Coordinate and communicate with volunteers and staff to ensure continuity of playgroups on weekends and holidays.
- Coordinate with staff from various departments for playgroup assistance and support.
- Coordinate with staff and volunteers to provide parallel walks and structured interactions for dogs who need to improve their social skills with other dogs.
- Conduct volunteer and staff training classes for playgroups and dog-to-dog introductions.
- Develop and maintain an excellent enrichment program for dogs who do not participate in playgroups.
- Provide additional enrichment and support for dogs as needed.
- Ensure enrichment storage and preparation areas are maintained and clean.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/ KEY COMPETENCIES
- Thorough understanding of canine behavior and body language, especially in a shelter environment.
- Thorough understanding of dog play behaviors and ability to appropriately monitor and intervene as needed.
- Ability to use safe and humane dog handling techniques for all dogs, including those with fearful and high arousal tendencies.
- Ability to work within a team setting as well as independently and provide and accept feedback in the moment.
- Ability to work successfully with and train volunteers.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing and maintain objectivity regarding dog behavior.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Education
- High School diploma or GED
- Dog playgroup experience required
- Dog handling experience required: handling in an animal shelter is preferred
- Dog training certificate (CPDT or equivalent) is preferred
Physical
- Ability to lift 50lbs.
- Significant amount of standing and squatting during a typical day, exposure to fumes, animal smells, and airborne particles
- Noise level is moderate to high
- Exposure to animal waste and potentially zoonotic diseases
- Potential to be scratched or bitten
Qualifications
Salary : $22
