City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Animal Enrichment Specialist

This position creates and implements procedures and programs related to cat and dog enrichment, exercise, and training; rovides training and support to staff, volunteers, adopters, and the public to improve the quality of life of animals in the shelter and the community; develops and implements shelter-based programs that will contribute to increases in the number of animals placed or adopted, resulting in live outcomes.

1. Performs animal behavior assessments Makes and distributes daily in-kennel enrichment items to dogs and cats. Ensures all sheltered animals receive regular exercise and enrichment including leading shelter dog playgroups of groups of five (5) to twenty-five (25) dogs at a time.
2. Creates support programs for animals with behavior challenges. Consults with supervisors/managers about shelter enrichment activities to improve adoptability and to treat and prevent behavior problems. 
3. Creates programs that reduce shelter intake, increases live outcomes, and reports results of activities to meet shelter goals.
4. Provides behavior consultation with adopters and options for pet owners who are considering surrendering their pet. 
5. Reviews, revises, and monitors behavior evaluation protocols and procedures related to animal behavior, evaluations and assessments, in-kennel enrichment, play groups, kennel breaks, and behavior modification.
6. Coordinates activities with other staff and with outside agencies.
7. Maintains databases and compiles and writes reports of activities.
8. Develops behavior related information for dissemination in the community. Conducts public workshops and training classes and trains volunteers to facilitate programs for other volunteers and members of the public.
9. Trains shelter staff and volunteers on animal behavior and safe handling of cats and dogs.
10. Serves on the euthanasia review team, helping to make outcome decisions for behaviorally at-risk dogs.

Provides leadership to resolve disputes and mediates complaints at the lowest possible level.

• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws pertaining to animals, including rabies and animal control.
• Knowledge of animal services and related programs.
• Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques and principles.
• Skill in effective oral and written communication.
• Skill in safely handling animals, including those with unknown temperament.
• Skill in using good judgment and in resolving problems and conflicts. 
• Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Ability to train others.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with City employees and the public.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with City employees, media, animal welfare organizations and the public.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.

Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent, plus two (2) years of experience in a field related to direct contact with companion animals.  

Valid Class C Driver License.