Dog Pathways Coordinator

Overview :  The Dog Pathways Coordinator supports the well-being, behavioral assessment, and overall shelter experience of dogs under the care of Oakland Animal Services (OAS). This role focuses on evaluating dogs for adoption suitability, monitoring their progress and stress levels, and ensuring each dog receives the structure, support, and enrichment they need while at the shelter. In collaboration with volunteers and other staff, the coordinator maintains a comprehensive understanding of the shelters dog population and helps guide decisions that promote positive outcomes for all dogs.While the coordinator oversees the overall dog program within the shelter, they will collaborate closely with other units, each of which maintains responsibility and final decision-making authority within their respective areas. For example, the Medical Director retains full authority over all medical care, and the Volunteer Coordinator oversees all aspects of the volunteer program.Job Duties and Responsibilities : Intake-to-placementMaintain an overall understanding of the shelters current dog population, including behavioral needs, length of stay, medical status, and other considerations.Collaborate closely with internal teams to discuss and recommend appropriate pathways for OAS dogs, including leading the weekly Animal Review Team meetings.Perform regular (ideally daily) shelter walk-throughs to assess the well-being of all dogs, monitor overall population needs, and identify any dogs who may need to be moved or need additional attention / support.Assist shelter staff with regular population assessment to ensure status / status changes are up-to-date.Keep dogs moving through the shelter, ensuring each dog has an outcome pathway while working to minimize length of stay and keeping the shelter at an appropriate capacity.Identify dogs who may need additional behavior support or alternative placement options, and work with internal teams to determine the best course of action.Work in close coordination with other team members including shelter management, animal care, veterinary, foster, adoption, and transfer staff, and volunteers.Behavior evaluationsPerform dog handling evaluations / assessments.Identify and maintain a list of dogs who are awaiting handling evaluations.Review and take into consideration owner surrender information.Compile behavior / handling / playgroup notes from staff, fosters, and volunteers.Maintain meticulous records of behavior observations and disclosures using the shelter database software.Ensure that records of animal care, status, and location are accurately reflected in using the shelter database software.Maintain and oversee a system for gathering staff and volunteer behavior observations (such as via the volunteer community board, forms, or other tools) and regularly communicate behavioral changes and relevant insights to staff and volunteers, including communicating euthanasia decisions.Regularly assess and adjust the volunteer handling level assigned to each dog to ensure safe and appropriate interactions.Regularly monitor and update behavior profiles.Determine whether each dog is suitable, behaviorally, to be made available for adoption.Train other staff or volunteers to perform / assist with handling evaluations.Behavior support for other teamsResearch and assess external behavior-support tools or vendor solutions (e.g., online behavior programs) to determine feasibility and usefulness for shelter teams, particularly the adoption and foster teams.In collaboration with the volunteer coordinator and dog mentors, conduct an assessment of each dog volunteer who is being considered for leveling up within the volunteer program.Collaborate with the adoption team to categorize and list adoptable dogs by behavioral level (e.g., starter dog, intermediate dog) to support safe and successful matches.Maintain a collection of behavior resources that can be provided to staff, fosters, volunteers, and adopters (e.g. handouts, training recommendations).Other duties as assigned.Qualifications and Education Requirements : Associates degree or equivalent from an accredited college or technical school preferred.Familiarity by training or experience with basic animal care and handling animals, such as administering vaccinations and medications, deworming, weighing, etc.Two years of experience working or volunteering with an animal care, rescue, or shelter organization preferred, with a focus on dogs.Experience handling / working with dogs with behavior challenges, especially large dogs.Strong knowledge of dog behavior gained through education and / or practical experience, e.g. certification programs, courses, workshops, mentorships, etc.Understanding of and demonstrated commitment to practicing humane, fear-free, evidence-based dog training / behavior modification.Valid Drivers License. Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities : Commitment to the mission, goals, and success of Oakland Animal Services.Positive attitude with the ability to establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relations with the public, other employees, volunteers, and partner organizations.Flexibility, adaptability, aptitude for effectively prioritizing multiple tasks, and a strong work ethic.Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and database systems.Excellent organizational and communication skills.Knowledge of basic animal health care and safe animal handling practices.Ability to recognize symptoms of common animal diseases.Ability to safely lift and handle dogs.Ability to lift and move supplies such as crates, dog food, etc.Working Conditions : Primary work location in an animal shelter environment.Exposure to loud noises in the kennel areas.Potential for exposure to animal feces, blood, and zoonotic diseases.Potential for exposure to animal bites and scratches.Must be able to work a flexible schedule which may include evenings and weekends.Must be able to tolerate the emotional aspect of work in an animal shelter environment, including the use of euthanasia.Job Classification :  Full-time, 40 hours / week, non-exemptReports to :  FOAS Executive Director for employment mattersOAS / FOAS Outcome Team Manager for daily job operational needsCompensation : $27- $30 per hour DOE; thirteen select paid holidays, plus accrued vacation and sick time based on hours worked. Health benefits and 401k retirement plan also offered.

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