ABOUT US

A South Australia where every pet has a loving home is Animal Welfare League of South Australia Inc. (AWL) vision and this is achieved through valuing the lives of people and pets and encouraging a community that values the human-animal bond for mutual wellbeing and enrichment.

As a not for profit organisation AWL operates as the state's largest animal shelter with more than 7,000 incoming animals a year. Our purpose is to re-home lost, surrendered and abandoned animals with our staff committed to our mission of connecting pets, people and community.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As Behaviour and Training Advisor you will be responsible for assessing and responding to the behavioural needs of animals in care as well as providing evidence based, positive reinforcement training and education.

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Undertaking behaviour assessments.
• Creating, implementing and regularly reviewing Behaviour Modification Plans for identified animals including liaising with the veterinary team in relation to supportive medications.
• Undertaking twice daily sessions for animals under behaviour modification and record progress.
• Conducting reviews, determine outcomes and recommend pathways for animals.
• Providing daily care and handling of fearful animals as requested.
• Acting as a responder in difficult situations arising in the animal areas.
• Determining clear rehoming recommendations for all animals.
• Maintaining accurate up to date animal data in ShelterBuddy with regards to assessments, behaviour modification plans and progress updates.
• Assisting with the design and delivery of training to employees, volunteers and external stakeholders.
• Implementing and reviewing environmental enrichment programs to maintain a high standard of animal welfare.
• Reviewing animals surrender requests and determining suitability for rehoming.

Please note, this is a full time position available but welcome applications from those seeking part time work. You must be able to work over a fourteen (14) day roster including weekends and public holidays, and travel will be required across both Wingfield and Edinburgh North sites.

ABOUT YOU

We are seeking an individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment, has effective time management skills, strong attention to detail and can proactively develop solutions.

You will also uphold the AWL beliefs and behaviours, work collaboratively and cooperatively with others and provide an exemplary customer-centric service provision. The ideal applicant will possess the following:

Essential

• Tertiary qualifications in animal behaviour including but not limited to Bachelor of Science (Animal Behaviour), Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training, Delta/IAABC or equivalent combined with practical experience.
• Highly developed understanding of the needs and support programs for animals in a shelter environment.
• Experience developing behaviour modification plans.
• Be comfortable and confident in ability to handle and support large, fearful animals.
• Experience in delivering efficient, timely and exemplary customer service.
• Excellent time management skills with the ability to prioritise workload and adjust priorities to ensure KPIs and deadlines are met.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to think analytically and develop solutions to problems.
• Ability to learn, organise, plan, implement and review programs.
• Proven ability to create, implement and foster a positive, productive and respectful workplace culture including positively influencing change.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, and collaboratively and cooperatively within a team environment.
• Ability to operate within a highly structured environment with a focus on understanding policies and procedures.
• High level of written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail and accuracy.

Desirable

• Experience working in an animal shelter.
• Experience developing and delivering training programs.
• Intermediate computer literacy including proficiency with database management and ShelterBuddy is desirable.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Some flexibility with working hours will be required. This includes working across a fourteen (14) day roster including public holidays and weekends
• Additional hours may be required to meet business needs.
• Travel may be required across AWL sites and other locations.
• A current driver’s licence is desirable.
• Applicants must be functionally assessed to ensure physical ability to complete the physical demands of the position.
• Satisfactory National Police Clearance Certificate / National Police Check (NPC) at commencement of employment and periodically at the request of AWL.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU!

• Salary Sacrifice Benefits.
• Discounted pet boarding, adoptions and cremation services in accordance with AWL policy.
• 20% discount on retail products from the AWL Pet Shop.
• Work in a positive and supportive environment.

For full role responsibilities and further information please see the Position Description below.

Job and person specification

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

If you are passionate about connecting pets, people and community, we want to hear from you!

Applications for this position must be accompanied by a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role. Also, include a resume with two (2) current referees and their email addresses.

Applications are to be addressed to the Behaviour and Training Manager. Head to SEEK to apply now!

For enquiries about the position, please contact Natasha Marginis on Natasha.Marginis@awl.org.au or call 0404 113 824.

Applications close: Friday 29 September 2023