Behavior Associate - ASPCA

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 learner assessments throughout the Apprenticeship to assist Instructors in providing personalized coaching 

• Assist ASPCA facility staff as necessary, providing care for animals participating in Apprenticeship activities (e.g., cleaning, feeding, providing enrichment/exercise) 

• Provide periodic, practical feedback on the experience, activities, content and flow of the Apprenticeship to help inform program improvement and iteration 

• Travel for up to 3 weeks at a time for learning activities at ASPCA facilities (all associated costs covered by the ASPCA) 

•  Shelter Behavior Associates must attend Winter 2025 cohort during the following dates:    

• February 12-15: remote onboarding 

• February 17-21: remote learning    

• February 24-March 12: Location TBD  

• March 13-14: remote learning   

• March 17-22: Location TBD  

• March 31-April 12: Asheville & Weaverville, NC  

• April 21-May 2: Columbus, OH  

• May 5: remote learning    

• Following the Apprenticeship program, Associates will begin regular work schedules at the R&R Center in Pawling, NY 

Compensation and Benefits: 

Starting pay for the successful applicant will depend on a variety of factors, including but not limited to education, training, experience, location, business needs, internal equity, market demands or budgeted amount for the role. The target hiring range is for new hire offers only, and staff compensation may increase beyond the maximum hiring range based on performance over time. The maximum of the hiring range is reserved for candidates with the highest qualifications and relevant experience. The expected hiring salary range for this role is set forth below and may be modified in the future.    

• The target hiring range for the initial Behavior Associate role is $31.25 - $32.69 

• The target range for promotion to Behavior Specialist is $34.62 - $37.02 

For more information on our benefits offerings, visit our website. 

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