Animal Behavior Manager

SPCA Serving Erie County

Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
The Behavior Manager is responsible for directing the daily operations of the shelter’s animal behavior program, with a primary focus on ensuring the behavioral health and welfare of all animals. This position provides leadership and supervision to Behavior Department staff and oversees the development and implementation of behavior assessments, enrichment plans, and training and modification strategies for a wide range of species, including dogs, cats, small mammals, and exotics. The role includes performing hands-on work, contributing to individualized behavior plans, ensuring consistent, high-quality program delivery, while also managing and coordinating the Canine and Feline Enrichment Volunteers. The Behavior Manager communicates with members of the public seeking behavioral guidance, helping to provide support and resources; resolving concerns and preventing unnecessary owner surrenders.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Supervises and evaluates Behavior staff and volunteers. Identifies and ensures appropriate training and
development opportunities.
• Manages animal behavior cases and assists in creating care pathways for long-term stay animals.
• Assists the Director of Capacity and Outcomes with preparing and managing departmental budgets.
• Provides weekly and monthly reports and data collection for the department.
• Develops and maintains departmental Standard Operating Procedures.
• Works with the Community Support Services Manager to guide intake decisions based on shelter
capacity for care and behavioral needs, helping reduce intake of animals that may be difficult to place.
• Trains new staff and demonstrates safe work practices.
• Performs daily behavior observations and conducts objective assessments on dogs, cats, and small
animals housed in the shelter, documenting and reporting their behaviors accurately.
• Performs behavior modification and training while creating, updating, and implementing individualized
behavior plans for animals requiring specialized support.
• Creates and performs animal enrichment plans.
• Enters all data appropriately into software applications used by the organization.
• Speaks to the public about a wide variety of animal behaviors, training, and positive reinforcement.
• Collaborates closely with the contracted trainer and behaviorist, consulting with them on complex cases
and following their guidance to support informed decision-making.
• Collaborates with the Adoptions Manager on the Doggie Entourage and Bark After Dark programs and works together to develop effective strategies for promoting animals with behavioral limitations to potential adopters.
• Assists with community outreach efforts by offering guidance and resources for pet owners in need of
behavioral assistance, striving to keep pets in the home and prevent shelter surrender.
• Works closely and communicates regularly with various departments to ensure consistent, high-
quality care practices and the overall well-being of animals in our custody.
• Participates in the decision-making process regarding humane behavioral euthanasia and provides
support to veterinary staff during euthanasia procedures.
• Oversees and coordinates Canine and Feline Enrichment Volunteers, including recruitment, training,
scheduling, supervision, and ongoing support.
• Identifies and communicates needs for program improvements, supplies, or resources.
• Directs animal handling; occasional cleaning.
• Must be available to work on some Saturdays as needed.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
• Bachelor's degree (B. A. / B. S.) from a four-year college or university
• Four to six years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Behavior certification required
• Animal shelter experience preferred