Behavioural Assessor/Trainer
Are you passionate about animal welfare and have a strong understanding of canine behaviour?
RSPCA ACT is seeking an Assistant Behaviour Trainer to join our kennels team and support RSPCA ACT’s mission to provide the best outcomes for the animals in our care.
In this role, you’ll work with staff, volunteers, and foster carers to assess, train, and rehabilitate dogs with behavioural challenges. You’ll also help develop training resources, provide guidance, and contribute to strategies that improve animal welfare outcomes. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and is ready to make a meaningful impact.
What You’ll Do:
- Assist with and review animal behaviour assessments, contributing to recommendations for intervention, further review, or behaviour modification plans.
- Assist with the development and implementation of behaviour modification plans for animals in care.
- Provide training and mentorship to staff, volunteers, and foster carers in enrichment, and canine handling using low-stress techniques.
- Assist with behaviour-related case management for foster animals, including coordinating foster placements and providing tailored support.
- Support adopters or members of the public with behaviour-related concerns and provide informed suggestions on managing their animals.
- Develop and deliver behaviour training materials for staff, volunteers, and the community.
- Maintain accurate records of behaviour assessments, modification plans, and related case notes.
Who Are We Looking For?
- Tertiary qualification in Animal Behaviour (preferred) or equivalent experience.
- Proven experience in animal behaviour assessment, training, and rehabilitation.
- Experience supervising staff and volunteers in an animal care environment.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to conflict resolution.
- Familiarity with RSPCA behaviour assessment processes and a sound understanding of animal welfare standards.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant RSPCA software.
- Energetic, positive, and passionate about animal welfare.
- Resilient and calm under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Physically fit to meet the demands of the role
RSPCA ACT offers
- A supportive team.
- Variety and opportunities to develop.
- An environment to share your passion for animal welfare.
- Free parking.
- Uniforms.
- Access to an independent Employee Assistance Program
- Retail & veterinary care discounts.
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
- Be part of a purpose-driven organisation where your work directly impacts animal welfare.
How to apply:
Send your resume and cover letter addressing the essential selection criteria, to employment@rspca-act.org.au or fill out the form now.
It is essential that you provide responses to the selection criteria to be considered for the role.
Due to the overwhelming amount of applications, we receive, contact will only be made with candidates we select for our shortlist.
Essential Selection Criteria
- Describe your experience in training dogs using positive motivation techniques. Can you provide specific examples of training programs you have developed and implemented?
- What is your understanding of dog behaviour and learning theory? How have you applied this knowledge in your previous roles?
- Provide an example of a training session you have conducted for staff or volunteers. How did you ensure the session was effective and engaging?
- Describe a challenging behaviour issue you have encountered with a shelter dog and how you addressed it.
