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, 2025Following 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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 bo.