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Behaviour Assistant (North Melbourne Shelter)

• 1 x Full Time Role - 76 hours per fortnight
• 1 x Part Time role - 30 hours per fortnight

About us:

At The Lost Dogs’ Home, we are a foundation in Victoria's animal welfare landscape, celebrated for our compassionate care of around 18,000 lost and abandoned dogs and cats every year. Beyond caring for animals, we are dedicated to providing diverse animal welfare and community programs, all aimed at giving animals the best chance of a happy and healthy life. Our mission is upheld by passionate individuals who embody a profound affinity for animals, community, and advocacy.

About the role:

We have an exciting opportunity for two Behaviour Assistants to join our Behaviour Department. In this role, you will support the Behaviour Trainers in conducting behaviour assessments, implementing enrichment, and delivering behaviour modification plans for animals in our care. This position is pivotal in ensuring our animals receive force-free, reward-based training, fostering positive behavioural outcomes. Responsibilities also include assisting with animal husbandry, providing basic behavioural guidance to adopters and staff, and handling ad-hoc administrative tasks.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in behaviour assessments of shelter cats and dogs under the direction of the Behaviour Team Leader or Trainer.
• Contribute to the implementation of force-free, reward-based training and enrichment plans.
• Document behaviour observations and training progress in Sheltermate.
• Manage administrative aspects of the external behaviour program, including scheduling and client communications.
• Perform general animal husbandry duties, including feeding, cleaning, and medicating, as required.

 About You:

• Currently pursuing a relevant qualification in animal behaviour and/or training (desirable).
• Experience with animal handling in a shelter, kennel, or cattery setting (desirable).
• Basic knowledge of animal behaviour and force-free training techniques.
• Strong communication skills for interacting with internal and external stakeholders.
• Resilient, compassionate, and able to work effectively in a team environment.

About our culture:

At The Lost Dogs’ Home, we cultivate an inclusive work environment that celebrates diversity. Our team enjoys a vibrant culture that fosters meaningful connections, both professionally and socially. Led by our dedicated social committee, we organise a wide range of engaging activities such as Paint and Sip Nights, Bowling, Trivia, and regular after-work gatherings. These events create opportunities for our team to relax, bond, and forge lasting friendships. We take pride in our diverse team where every individual is encouraged to be their authentic self, regardless of their role within the organisation.

What we can offer you:

• Unique work environment, supporting a great cause
• A rewarding job opportunity to help change the lives of shelter animals
• Career development opportunities and financial assistance with approved studies
• Ability to work a rotating roster including weekends
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program and onsite counselling service
• Discounts at LDH Vet Hospital
• Friendly, passionate and supportive team who will help develop your skills in animal welfare

Apply Today:

If you have the skills, experience and enthusiasm to be successful in this role, please click on the “Apply” button, ensuring you have attached your cover letter and current resume in Word or PDF format. If you have any further questions or queries regarding the role, please email recruitment@dogshome.com.

Please note that applications will be reviewed as they are received, so we encourage you to apply early as the role may close if a suitable candidate is found. Don't miss out—apply today!

 The successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete background screening checks.

The Lost Dogs’ Home is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. Only candidates with the right to work in Australia may apply for this position.