Animal Behavior Manager (Official Title: Animal Behaviorist)

City of Fresno

Job Description

Do you enjoy working with animal behavior as much as working with people? The City of Fresno is looking for an Animal Behavior Manager (Official Title: Animal Behaviorist) to join the team at the Fresno Animal Center caring for the animal population and helping keep pets with their families.

Under direction, the Animal Behavior Manager is responsible for managing, developing and evaluating animal behavior policies, procedures and practices in the Animal Center. Responsibilities include developing, implementing and evaluating animal behavior policies and procedures consistent with best practices and guidelines including population management, investigations, and behavior medication treatment plans; supervising assigned staff and volunteers; developing animal behavior and temperament assessments for appropriate intake and kenneling; identifying behaviors and underlying causes and working with the animals to train and correct the behaviors; developing animal enrichment activities including socialization and mental stimulation exercises such as playgroups and exercise plans; collaborating with Veterinary and animal care staff on monitoring animal behavior and temperament progress; working with staff and the public to maximize successful placements and outcomes for animals to remain in their homes and providing education on animal behavior approaches; and performing related work as required.

Incumbents must demonstrate initiative, tact, and sensitivity in education and awareness of animal services resources and must be able to communicate effectively with diverse groups.

Incumbents will be required to work nights, evenings, weekends, and holidays and
respond to after-hours emergencies as needed; will be exposed to a working environment with animals (primarily dogs and cats) which may lead to possible exposure of unpleasant odors and noises, allergens, interactions with animals, and possible exposure to zoonotic diseases; and will be required to handle and restrain animals humanely and safely using approved protocols and practices.

This is an unclassified position in which incumbents serve at the will of the Department Director.

One vacancy currently exists in the Animal Center Department. Immediate and future vacancies will be filled from this eligible list for a period of three (3) months from the date the eligible list is created, with the option of extending that period at the City's discretion. If the examination process is suspended for this recruitment, the eligible list may be limited to three (3) months.

This is a full time job