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Your Mission:

To advance the mission and programs of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) by supporting the behavioral health and adoptability of animals through thoughtful evaluation, enrichment, and behavior modification. As a Behavior Specialist, you play a critical role in helping animals succeed in the shelter environment and beyond, while also supporting staff, volunteers, and the community with education and guidance rooted in humane, evidence-based practices.

What You’ll Do:

In this role, you will observe animals daily to assess behavioral health and implement strategies to improve behavior and overall well-being. You will conduct and facilitate behavior evaluations, kennel assessments, and Behavior Modification Protocols (BMP) for shelter dogs, ensuring progress is documented, tracked, and communicated clearly across teams. You will train staff on writing effective and concise behavior memorandums and collaborate with shelter teams to ensure consistent understanding of each animal’s needs.

You will make informed recommendations regarding behavior plans, appropriate housing, enrichment strategies, and existing protocols to enhance adoptability and reduce stress. You will support behavior-based shelter diversion efforts by providing consultations to members of the public and responding to behavior helpline calls, maintaining accurate records of all interactions.

You will assist with community outreach related to animal behavior, including pre- and post-adoption support, public workshops, trainings, educational materials, and special events. You will contribute to the creation of humane training resources and educational handouts and support the ongoing development of the ARL’s training programs by assisting with registrations, communications, trainer onboarding, and program improvements.

You will collaborate with Volunteer Services to facilitate TheraPets assessments and assist with training and supporting volunteers to ensure a positive and productive experience. Throughout your work, you will model compassionate animal handling, participate in stress and disease reduction efforts, maintain a safe work environment, and uphold all ARL policies and procedures. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.

What You Bring:

You bring a high school diploma or GED and at least one year of experience in animal care and handling, with previous experience in animal behavior or training strongly preferred. You communicate clearly and thoughtfully, pay close attention to detail, and approach challenges with strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. You are comfortable working in emotionally demanding and fast-paced environments and demonstrate strong stress management and interpersonal abilities.

You possess excellent customer service skills, can resolve conflict effectively, and are comfortable performing basic mathematical tasks and using Microsoft Office Suite. A valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record is required.

Working Conditions:

This role may require lifting up to 50 pounds on occasion and involves frequent exposure to animal odors, illnesses, bites, scratches, waste, and moderate noise levels. You must be able to stand or sit for extended periods and work safely and compassionately with animals that may be stressed, fearful, or behaviorally challenged.

Why Work at the ARL?

As a Behavior Specialist at the ARL, your work directly impacts an animal’s ability to thrive, find a home, and remain successfully placed. You will be part of a collaborative, mission-driven team dedicated to humane care, education, and community support. Every behavior plan you develop, every consultation you provide, and every animal you help represents a meaningful step toward a more compassionate community.

Employment in this position is at-will, meaning that either the employee or the ARL may terminate the employment relationship at any time.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and/or applicable state regulations, the Animal Rescue League will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations.

Tuesday - Saturday (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)