Behavior Associate

Summary:

Are you passionate about helping animals in need and eager to advance the field of animal welfare? Do you thrive in a dynamic, complex, highly collaborative environment? If so, the role of Behavior Associate at the ASPCA's new Recovery & Rehabilitation Center (R&R Center) in Pawling, NY might be right for you!

Behavior Associates attend the ASPCA's 9-week paid Shelter Behavior Apprenticeship (SBA) that provides the foundations for a career in animal behavior. The SBA is a deep dive into the science of animal behavior and its application in shelter settings, alongside hands-on coaching from behavior experts. Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, Behavior Associates continue building skills and experience at the R&R Center. Behavior Associates who consistently demonstrate strong shelter behavior knowledge and skills, and collaborate effectively within and across teams, move in to the role of Behavior Specialist after approximately one year of on-the-job training.

Ideal candidates for Behavior Associate will have a keen interest in the science of animal behavior, a passion for animal welfare, and exceptional people skills.

Recovery & Rehabilitation Center Overview & Upcoming Launch

The R&R Center in Pawling, NY, is a unique program dedicated to providing integrated sheltering, behavioral, and medical care for canine victims of cruelty. The R&R Center team works closely with ASPCA teams in New York City to help animals rescued in partnership with the NYPD.

The Shelter Behavior Apprenticeship combines online and hands-on learning, and requires travel. The target start date for this position is February 12, 2025. Following the completion of SBA, Behavior Associates are expected to begin work in-person in Pawling, NY on May 6, 2025.

Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Functional Duties (80%)

Provide a safe and compassionate environment for animals and humans by using low-stress and defensive handling techniques

Carry out assigned behavior modification protocols, conducting and documenting treatment sessions, and providing data and observations to help inform intervention decisions

Assist with handling and data collection during behavior evaluations, playgroups, intake, cleaning, grooming, exercise, veterinary exams, adoption and transfer, and humane euthanasia as appropriate

Monitor behavioral health and communicate observations and concerns to appropriate staff members in a timely fashion

Provide handling and data collection in support of the organization's research agenda

Adhere to all protocols set forth by the ASPCA, including behavior modification and training procedures, enrichment, animal handling, as well as general medical and sheltering protocols

Administrative and Operational Duties (20%)

Meticulous collection of high-quality data in support of behavior and veterinary needs as well as the organization's research agenda

Attend and meaningfully contribute to all relevant R&R Center and ASPCA meetings

Accurately track and report time worked, time off, and work-related travel expenses

Responsibly steward R&R Center assets

Core Values

Exemplifies the ASPCA's Core Values:

Has Commitment and dedication to improving the lives of animals

Demonstrates Ownership and feels responsible for outcomes

Believes in Team - that we are stronger together

Seeks to Elevate others and reimagine what is possible

Focuses on Impact, specifically making change for animals

Requirements

Education and Work Experience

High School Diploma or GED required, B. S. or B. A. preferred

At least 6 months of experience in hands-on work with dogs; equivalent volunteer experience may be considered

Experience working or volunteering in an animal shelter preferred

Hands-on experience working with dogs, in one or more of the following capacities

Animal Shelter

At least 6 months in a paid full-time role

At least 1 year in a paid part-time role

At least 240 hours in an unpaid volunteer role

All other settings

At least 1 year in a paid full-time role

At least 2 years in a paid part-time role

Sofia Yin's Low Stress Handling University Silver-Level certification (approximately 18 hours) required within six months of hire

Other Requirements

Valid driver's license and ability to pass a motor vehicle history check demonstrating safe driving

Ability and willingness to travel up to 20% of the time

Able to work a flexible schedule including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays

Fluent in the use of MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint; familiarity with shelter software systems or Salesforce a plus

Excellent written and oral communication skills

Able to regularly witness animals suffering medically and/or behaviorally

Comfortable with humane euthanasia in theory and in practice

Displays concern for the safety and well-being of self, animals and others, especially under stress

Fosters collaboration by creating strong connections with colleagues at all levels and in all areas

Builds strong work relationships based on trust, respect, and listening to understand

Freely and generously shares knowledge, skills, and expertise with others

Demonstrates genuine interest in the thoughts, ideas, and expertise of others

Proactively problem-solves and takes appropriate initiative to implement solutions

Flexible; can easily adapt to changes and help others do the same

Resilient; bounces back from difficult and disappointing situations quickly

Physical Requirements

Work takes place in a variety of environments and weather conditions, including indoor climate-controlled spaces and outdoors where surfaces may be wet or uneven and extreme heat, cold, or precipitation is possible

Work may occur in noisy environments

Work involves exposure to chemical and biological hazards such as medications, cleaning products, urine, feces, blood, and sharp objects

Ability to work in a physically demanding environment that requires standing, walking, bending, squatting, and/or kneeling for extended periods of time

Ability to lift and carry animals (50 pounds unassisted, 100 pounds with assistance) and equipment, such as food bags, bedding, and cleaning supplies

Comfort and ability to handle and restrain animals safely and humanely, particularly in stressful situations

Ability to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment, including but not limited to disposable coveralls, respirators or face masks, and booties

Shelter Behavior Apprenticeship Requirements:

Actively participate in shelter behavior online, classroom and hands-on experiential learning activities throughout the Apprenticeship

Practice application of acquired skills and knowledge in a busy animal shelter setting, with coaching and supervision by Apprenticeship staff

Perform basic handling of dogs and cats under the supervision of Apprenticeship staff

Demonstrate acquired knowledge and skills via periodic, practical lear.