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 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. Stay Connected - Join Our Talent Community If you are interested in joining our team but do not see a position listed that fits your experience or interests, please join our Talent Community to stay connected to future opportunities with the ASPCA. Qualifications: See above for qualifications details. Language: English Education and Work Experience: High School Diploma Our EEO Policy: The ASPCA is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity or expression, age, marital or domestic partner status, citizenship status, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to a reasonable accommodation under the terms of the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. A reasonable accommodation is a change in the ASPCA's standard application process, which will ensure an equal employment opportunity without imposing undue hardship on the ASPCA. Please inform the ASPCA's People Team if you need an accommodation in order to complete any forms or to otherwise participate in the application process. Individuals seeking employment are considered without regards to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity or expression, age, marital or domestic partner status, citizenship status, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. ASPCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/D/V). About Us: The ASPCA was founded in 1866 on the belief that animals are entitled to kind and respectful treatment by humans and must be protected under the law. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation with more than two million supporters nationwide, the ASPCA is committed to preventing cruelty to dogs, cats, equines, and farm animals throughout the United States. The ASPCA is headquartered in New York City, where we maintain a full-service animal hospital, spay/neuter clinic, mobile spay/neuter and primary pet care clinics, a rehabilitation center for canine victims of cruelty, kitten nursery, adoption center, and two community veterinary centers. The ASPCA also operates programs and services that extend nationwide. We assist animals in need through on-the-ground disaster and cruelty interventions, behavioral rehabilitation, animal placement, legal and legislative advocacy, and the advancement of the sheltering and veterinary community through research, training, and resources. At the ASPCA, we are committed to fostering a collaborative and compassionate culture and we welcome all voices to contribute to our lifesaving mission. Our staff represent a vast array of backgrounds and diversity dimensions, bringing with them valuable experiences and perspectives. They join the ASPCA to learn, grow, and continually do their best work on behalf of animals. We are inspired by our staff, partners, and the communities we support across the country who work to improve animal lives. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion at the ASPCA because it elevates our organizational culture, aligns with our Core Values, and enables us to move further and faster toward the ASPCA's vision - that all animals live good lives; valued by society, protected by its laws, and free from cruelty, pain and suffering. Applicants that are residents of Colorado: Per CO Senate Bill 23-058, we cannot generally request or require any age-related information (i.e., age, DOB, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution) on an initial employment application; this includes any age-related inquiries in the initial interview. We are permitted to require/request additional application materials; if those materials contain any age-related information, an applicant may redact the information before submitting an initial employment application. Minimum Salary: 31200.00 Maximum Salary: 31200.00 Salary Unit: Yearly