Canine Playgroup Coordinator

Overview

Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh (HARP), one of the largest animal welfare organizations in Pennsylvania is seeking an energetic and engaging Canine Playgroup Coordinator to join our growing team! The ideal candidate will share our vision and passion for the humane and ethical treatment of animals within the community.

Summary

This is technical and physical work in the organization, execution, and documentation of playgroups for canines in the shelter. Required skills in animal handling, teamwork and communication, multiple dog interactions, basic knowledge of canine body language and fear free techniques. There is physical labor in handling the animals and implementing playgroups and behavior assessments. Work is performed both independently and in teams under the direction of department managers. Daily responsibilities are semi-routine but flexibility and problem solving are necessary to support the needs of individual animals and the shelter staff.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Executes canine playgroups including equipment and space setup and tear down, canine selection, handler selection, safe monitoring and intervention during play, and tracking of behavioral information objectively and thoroughly
• Enter information observed and recorded from playgroups into ShelterLuv and other designated tracking mediums
• Maintain accurate categorization for animals to accurately convey information across departments
• Elevate behavioral concerns to the Behavior Team Lead and Manager in a timely manner
• Assist in training other staff in safe, effective playgroup implementation and canine interactions including handling techniques, equipment uses, theoretical knowledge, and record keeping
• Assist with Behavior Checks related to canine social interactions
• Ensure safety equipment and other related supplies are stocked and in appropriate condition, communicate any needs in a timely manner
• Performs related work as assigned
• Commitment to participating in continuing education opportunities
• Ability to reliably report to work during emergency circumstances and inclement weather

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee could be exposed to hazards associated with aggressive animals; hazards associated with infected animals and controlled substances; exposure to unpleasant odors and noises; exposure to bites, scratches, and animal waste; and possible exposure to contagious diseases. The employee will primarily be working in a shelter environment. The noise level is usually moderate.

Physical demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to bend, stand, stoop, walk, sit, talk, listen, hear, use of hands and fingers, and extend hands, arms, and legs. This role routinely requires handling of animals in varying degrees of behavior, size, and strength. Requires a high level of dexterity with a leash and other training equipment with multiple animal species. May be required to lift objects weighing more than 50lbs. Ability to stand for 2-3 hours at a time. Tolerance for changing weather conditions. This description is representative of the requirements that must be met by an employee to successfully perform essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

Travel

This position will require working out of HARP’s North Shore and/or East End locations.

Qualifications:

• Animal handling experience is required including experience with multi-dog off-leash interactions
• Knowledge of standardized work routines and procedures used to handle and care for a variety of animals
• Ability to train using positive reinforcement and fear free techniques
• Ability to handle large and sometimes dangerous animals
• Recording and maintenance of observations, data, and plans in the assigned format and computer operating system
• Effective communication skills both verbal and written
• Cooperative, professional, and respectful communication with staff, volunteers, and members of the public
• Ability to pay attention to details, organize, and follow through on assigned tasks