Animal Behaviorist
About the role
Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is a collaborative organization dedicated to improving health outcomes for the third most populous county in the United States. HCPH offers a wide range of services including medical and dental services, community programming, and health education.
Responsibilities
Conducts comprehensive evaluations of incoming animals to assess behavioral concerns such as aggression, anxiety, fear, and socialization issues.
Observes and documents animal behavior to track progress and identify any changes that could impact the animal’s adaptability or well-being.
Provides well-considered recommendations for humane euthanasia in cases where behavioral issues pose a significant risk to the animal’s welfare or public safety.
Works closely with veterinary and kennel staff to monitor the health and behavior of animals, especially those in quarantine or undergoing medical treatment.
Develops and implements individualized behavior modification plans using positive reinforcement, desensitization, and other effective techniques tailored to shelter animals.
Trains shelter staff and volunteers on safe, effective animal handling practices and behavioral best practices to ensure consistency and safety.
Affords assistance in developing educational materials and workshops to improve community understanding of animal behavior and welfare.
Stays informed on the latest research, theories, and best practices in animal behavior to continuously improve shelter practices and protocols.
Requirements
Education: Bachelor’s degree in animal science, zoology, biology, psychology, or ethology.
Experience: At least five (5) years of experience working with cats and dogs in a behavior or training role, preferably in a shelter or rescue environment.
Valid Texas Driver's License.
Proficient in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Must be comfortable working with animals.
Knowledge of current research, theories, and advancements in animal behavior to improve shelter practices and protocols.
Knowledge of ethical considerations and best practices related to humane euthanasia decisions, focusing on animal welfare and public safety.
Skill in communicating clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, to explain behavior assessments and provide recommendations.
Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage time-sensitive projects independently while ensuring attention to detail.
Skill in developing and implementing individualized behavior modification plans using positive reinforcement, desensitization, and other effective techniques.
Ability to observe, assess, and document animal behavior, identifying key behavioral concerns and tracking progress over time.
Ability to make informed, ethical decisions regarding challenging cases, including humane euthanasia, with a focus on animal welfare and safety.
Ability to build and maintain effective, collaborative relationships with shelter staff, volunteers, external organizations, and community stakeholders.
Ability to solve a variety of complex problems in the absence of technical guidelines and when creative thinking is required.
Core Competencies
Data Analytics and Assessment Skills: Ability to use data to analyze community health needs and support decisions that improve community health outcomes.
Communication Skills: Focuses on using clear and effective communication to engage audiences, address misinformation, and build trust, supporting informed decisions and stronger public health outcomes.
Health Advancement Skills: Focuses on applying principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion to public health, addressing systemic barriers, and promoting fair access to resources for healthier communities.
Community Partnership Skills: Focuses on collaborating with communities to address the systems and policies affecting health, fostering engagement, shared ownership, and sustainable improvements in well-being.
Public Health Science Skills: Focuses on using public health science and evidence-based approaches to develop and improve policies and programs, ensuring effective delivery of the 10 Essential Public Health Services.
General Information
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work: Full time, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. May require infrequent weekend work and travel within Harris County jurisdiction.
Work Environment: Animal shelter, professional office, and field work. Consistently exposed to animals and animal allergens under conditions with limited alternative available. Routine use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines.
Physical Demands: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a physically demanding environment, including standing, walking, bending, and handling animals. Comfortable working in various environments, including kennels, adoption areas, and public spaces. May involve manual setup and teardown of equipment as needed.
Location: Veterinary Public Health, 612 Canino Road, Houston, TX 77076.
Employment is contingent upon passing a background check and drug screen. Positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.