Behavior Program Supervisor

Seattle Humane•Bellevue, WA

9h•$30 - $33•Onsite

About The Position

The Behavior Program Supervisor oversees day-to-day operations within the Behavior department and supports behavior department leadership in building and implementing programmatic change. The Behavior Program Supervisor supervises Behavior Program Associates, Playgroup Coordinators, and the Behavior- Admissions Coordinator, working under the direction of the Senior Operation Manager. This role works closely with other operations, collaborating heavily with Shelter Care, Adoptions, Foster, and Veterinary teams. The Behavior Program Supervisor provides leadership, and supports the mission, goals, and philosophy of Seattle Humane.

Requirements

At least 2 years of employment working in a behavior department or providing behavior support and management in a shelter setting
Intermediate to advanced knowledge of dog body language and behavior.
Intermediate to advanced clicker training knowledge and experience.
Proven knowledge and experience in advanced dog training and behavior modification.
Experience working with and supporting volunteers.
Knowledge of contemporary shelter maintenance techniques and accepted sanitary practices.
Ability to recognize potential symptoms of diseases common to dogs and cats.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to communicate with the public, volunteers and co-workers in a pleasant, courteous and tactful manner at all times.
Excellent public speaking skills.
Must be able to write clearly and listen effectively
Must possess the organizational and planning skills to determine work priorities and schedules
Basic knowledge of Word and Excel; must be familiar with Outlook environment, internet use and email; experience with databases and data entry helpful
Behavior consulting certification from IAABC or CCPDT. Equivalent experience and education considered.
Must be able to speak clearly, hear well, and write legibly; to see clearly with at least one eye; and to distinguish between various odors by sense of smell. Must have good dexterity and sense of touch with both hands; to stand or sit for four to six hours at a time. Must possess good hand-eye coordination, agility, and stamina. Must be able to crouch, bend from the waist, kneel, and move quickly. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds without assistance, over 50 pounds with assistance (from floor to table and vice-versa, and/or carry for six to 10 feet, if not more). Must be able to analyze problems and determine the best solutions. Must be able to concentrate and produce accurate work despite interruptions. Must have good attention to detail, reasoning and problem-solving abilities, to perform mathematical calculations with or without a calculator. Must be able to solve problems and communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing. Requires the ability to make decisions under time constraints with (sometimes) limited information. Needs to be sensitive to other opinions, perspectives, or cultures. Must feel comfortable in dealing with angry, confused, and/or emotional people. Must exhibit initiative and motivation in performing all duties. Frequent exposure to emotionally-charged situations, including discussions regarding euthanasia.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated management or supervisory experience preferred
Experience supervising dog playgroups in shelter or dog daycare preferred.

Responsibilities

Supervises Behavior Program staff and volunteers in day-to-day operations.
Works with Shelter Care to identify and address dog behavior needs within the campus population.
Works with Foster Care to identify and address dog behavior needs within the foster population.
Escalates significant behavior concerns to Senior Operations Manager immediately.
Works with the Behavior Admissions Coordinator to manage intakes of dogs with behavior concerns and intake diversion resources for families and pets who need additional support.
Works with the Behavior Admissions Coordinator to provide support for adopters of pets with behavior concerns pre- and post-adoption.
Acts as Volunteer Captain for Behavior Program volunteers
Monitors requests from other departments for behavioral support for dogs and delegates as appropriate. Attends rounds or other meetings related to pets’ progress and needs while in our care, as needed.
In collaboration with Senior Operations Manager and Behavior Program Associates creates behavior support, intervention, management and/or training plans for pets in our care. Oversees their implementation, monitors progress and adjusts as necessary.
Teaches animal behavior, handling, and related classes for staff and volunteers, as needed.
Provides behavior advising and consultation for potential adopters and foster parents for aggression, reactivity, fear, and other challenging behaviors.
Manages phone, in-person, virtual, and email behavior support and consultations for foster parents, adopters, and the public.
Participates in euthanasia decision-making and communication.
Assists with handling during behavior euthanasia as necessary
Writes or edits communication such as, but not limited to, memos, behavior plans, and handouts.
Recommends program changes to the Senior Operations Manager for review.
Monitors assigned inventory of behavior program supplies. Orders regularly to ensure adequate supply.
Capable of completing all key Behavior coordinator and associate tasks and functions.
Other duties as assigned.