Behaviour Trainer - Behaviour Centre

Evaluate & interpret canine behaviour of animals in RSPCA NSW care with the purpose of determining the animal's potential for rehoming.

The Behaviour Trainer position has been developed to evaluate the temperament of animals with the purpose of determining their potential for rehoming. In this role you will assist with the development and implementation of environmental enrichment, and undertake behaviour modification programs for animals under the care of RSPCA NSW.
RSPCA NSW is Australia’s best known and most respected animal welfare organisation, working tirelessly to prevent animal cruelty, caring for over 15,000 animals in New South Wales, Australia every year.
We are animal protectors, carers, and advocates, and bring solace to the abandoned, surrendered and injured. We offer shelter, education, veterinary care and compassion, while helping animals in need find loving ‘furever’ homes.
About the Opportunity

• Observe, accurately interpret and document canine behaviour both in shelter and other environments
• Assist in welfare assessments, behaviour evaluation of animals to prepare them for rehoming and identify relevant changes and potential problems
• Provide support in writing intake plans and management plans and escalate when necessary to manage quality of life within the shelter and enhance their chances of successful rehoming
• Assist with implementing and undertake the training and behaviour management required for individual animals
• Monitor the progress of animals on management and rehabilitation plans
• Document rehabilitation sessions, video footage or any other interaction with canines
• Undertake enrichment for individual animals (environmental, sensory and social)
• Support shelter staff to carry out training, enrichment and management of animals under supervision
• Contribute to appropriate outcomes for animals in line with organizational policy, including rescue requests
• Assist with meet and greet sessions with potential adoption animals
• General administrative and office duties as and when required
• Attend internal training courses and meetings as required and keep up to date with the latest latest research on canine behaviour and training
• Relationship management with all stakeholders and members of the public

About You

• Certificate II Companion Animal Studies, desirable
• Enrolled in Certificate IV Behaviour and Training or Companion Animal Studies or Companion Animal Behaviour or willing to undertake alongside your role
• Current unrestricted driver’s licence
• Minimum three months experience in a kennel, shelter or welfare environment
• Experience in observing and interpreting canine body language including facial expressions vocalizations, and their relationship to emotional states
• Demonstrated experience in safely handling a range of different breeds of dogs with varying behavioural characteristics (including those with fear and anxiety)
• Experience with fear-free restraint, force free and reward based training and handling approaches
• Knowledge of dog behaviour, training and behaviour modification practices
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and can effectively collaborate within a team
• Able to lift 10kg
• Proven ability to remain calm whilst working under pressure
• Resilience, with the ability to bounce back after occasional setbacks

Apply Now
If this sounds like the role for you, we would love to hear from you! Simply click ‘APPLY’ to send in your resume.
RSPCA NSW is an equal opportunity employer that understands and values the importance of creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to provide a barrier-free recruitment process for people with a disability. If you require an adjustment or assistance during the recruitment process, please contact recruitment@rspcansw.org.au and identify the type of adjustment or assistance you are requesting. Our Recruitment team will respond to your email promptly